Breast Implant Surgery for Breast Reconstruction

Many of the risks associated with breast reconstruction are the same as those with any surgery: infection, poor wound healing, bleeding, or a reaction to the anesthesia used in surgery.

Other risks from breast implants include:

• Capsular contracture. It occurs when scar tissue around the implant hardens and begins to squeeze the implant. Surgery may be needed to remove the scar tissue or replace the implant.
• Changes in the implant. Normal activity or an injury to the breast can damage the implant, causing it to leak, deflate, or rupture. Over time, the implant may harden, develop ripples, shift position, or change shape. Surgery may be needed to remove the implant and replace it if any of these changes occur.
• Collection of blood or clear fluid in the wound.
• Abnormal scarring (uncommon).
• Silicone implants that leak. Silicone implants can leak inside the body without causing any symptoms.

Some women are at higher risk for problems from surgery. This includes women who:

• Are obese (Reference BMI Opens New Window over 35).
• Have Reference high blood pressure Opens New Window.
• Have Reference diabetes Opens New Window.
• Smoke.
• Are in poor health.

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