Breast implants: Know the risks!

Thinking of going under the knife in order to get breast implants? Here are a few points to consider when making your decision.

Thinking of going under the knife in order to get breast implants? Here are a few points to consider when making your decision.

Although they undergo testing before going on the market, breast implants are not without risk (e.g. implant ruptures, scar tissue formation). The bigger the implants, the greater the risk of complications. 

An implant is a foreign body around which a fibrous capsule forms. This scar tissue has a tendency to shrink, which compresses the implant and gives the impression that the breast is hard. Additional surgery is sometimes required to remove the scar tissue.

All implants get damaged over time and eventually need to be replaced. Women usually need to get their implants replaced at least once in their lifetime, and in some cases several times, especially if they were very young when they had their first surgery. You must therefore take into account the risks of repeated surgical procedures, as well as their cost.

It’s important to choose your surgeon carefully, and to get clear information on the advantages and dangers of the proposed surgery, as well as the short- and long-term risks involved. After the procedure, it is essential to undergo the recommended follow-ups and to promptly report any unusual sign or symptom. As for all women, it is important to continue to monitor for breast cancer through self-exams and mammograms. 

The decision to have breast implants should not be taken lightly.Take the time to think it through!