Every surgical procedure has risks, and anyone considering breast surgery should know there are some minor complications which are rare, but can occur. These complications may include: post-operative infection, hematoma, changes in nipple or breast sensation, scarring, asymmetry, breast implant rupture, deflation or leakage, capsular contraction, and rippling.

An infection of the incision site or implant pocket, although a low risk, can occur following breast augmentation. Most infections can be effectively treated with antibiotics. In some cases, it is best to remove the implant and leave it out until the infection has resolved.

A hematoma, or pooling of blood or fluid, is usually caused by excessive activity too soon following breast surgery. In the rare instance a hematoma occurs, the patient will notice swelling in one area of the breast accompanied by pain and tenderness or firmness and bruising or discoloration. The patient who requires evacuation of the blood or fluid will be very uncomfortable with a hard, firm area of the breast.

Nipple and breast sensation may be diminished and usually resolves after several weeks. For some patients, this diminished sensitivity is permanent.

With any surgery, every incision has a risk of scar formation. This varies with each individual. The beneficial results of breast surgery outweigh the tiny scars.

Patients must remember that breast implants are mechanical devices and cannot be expected to last a lifetime. Generally however, implants can be expected to last ten years or more. Implants may develop a leak or rupture causing deflation of the implant.

After breast implant surgery, your body will form a capsule around the implant. In some patients, this capsule may scar and contract causing a firm, hard breast. This may take place several months to several years following surgery. This may cause pain and or distortion of the implant. Surgical correction is necessary if this occurs.

The folds along the edge of the implant may sometimes be felt or seen along the breast skin. This condition is known as rippling.

A breast implant placed under the breast tissue usually corrects small amounts of ptosis or sagging of the breast. However with time, the breast tissue will continue to relax and occasionally it is necesary at a later date to do a breast lift procedure to keep the breast mound on top of the implant.