Ways for Surgeons to Reduce Complications After Breast Augmentation (Part II)

Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants, Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery Blogs, Plastic Surgery Science Comments (1)

Reducing Nipple Numbness

Reduced or complete loss of sensation in the nipples is one of the most common concerns of breast augmentation patients who are still considering having babies in the future.  This complication happens due to the injury to the nerves at the time of surgery.

To minimize the risk of nipple numbness, plastic surgeons avoid cutting and cauterizing the area nearest the armpit.  Instead, they may gently stretch the tissue apart so there will be enough “breast pocket” for the implants.

By stretching the tissue apart instead of cutting it, there is less risk of nerve damage.  Take note that stretched nerves are less likely to result in permanent numbness in the nipples.

Reducing Downward Displacement of Implants

Downward displacement of the implants, which leads to sagging breasts, is often caused by large, heavy implants.  This problem is more of a concern with saline implants because they are prone to sloshing unlike the silicone version.

It is really hard to tell if someone will experience downward displacement or not because the level of risk is also determined not only by the implant size but also by the breast tissue (flaccid vs firm) and its amount.

In general, women with firmer breasts with a moderate to significant amount of tissue can accommodate larger implants.  By contrast, patients with flaccid breasts are often advised to choose silicone implants filled with 300cc to 350cc to reduce the risk of downward displacement.

Postponing the Need for Revisions

There is no guaranty that breast implants can last a lifetime; for this reason, most patients will likely need revision surgery at some point in their lives.

Teenage patients in particular will need revisions sooner than those who will undergo breast augmentation in their twenties.  Women should remember that breast implants are subjected to the natural wear and tear from daily life’s activities.

According to surveys, most breast augmentation patients wait until they reach their twenties before having the procedure.

Avoiding Less Favorable Cosmetic Outcome

To achieve the most natural result, there is no universal approach because everything depends on the anatomical features (e.g., amount of tissue, chest width, waistline, etc.).  For instance, women who lack breast tissue and fat are generally advised to use silicone implants rather than saline implants.

Women with little breast tissue are not advised to use saline implants because the result is usually breasts that are too round; higher risk of palpable and visible rippling; and unnatural feel.

Cosmetic Surgery Blogger @ February 17, 2012