Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide. While generally safe, it’s important to understand potential complications. Let’s examine these complications based on their frequency, as reported in medical literature.

Common Complications (>1%)

1. Capsular Contracture: 4.1% within 2 years, the most common reason for reoperation within 4 years. This occurs when scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to feel firm or look misshapen. It’s one of the most frequent reasons for revision surgery.
2. Reoperation: 5% overall complication rate.
3. Asymmetry: Minor differences in breast size or shape can occur post-surgery and thats totaly normal. Specific rate is not provided, but listed among most common complications.
4. Pain or Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain is typical during recovery but usually subsides within a few weeks.
5. Changes in Nipple/Breast Sensation: Nipple or breast sensation may increase, decrease, or become numb temporarily or permanently.

Less Common Complications (0.1-1%)

1. Infection: While rare, infections can occur and may necessitate implant removal 0.5% for implants, and 1.1% for autologous fat grafting.
2. Hematoma or Seroma: Hematoma (blood pooling) or seroma (fluid accumulation) near the surgical site can cause swelling and discomfort Implant
3. Rupture/Deflation: 1.1-17.7% at 6-10 years post-primary augmentation. Implants can rupture due to trauma or wear over time, requiring replacement.

Rare Complications (0.01-0.1%)

1. Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women report systemic symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog, though this is not yet fully understood by medical science.
2. Breast Tissue Atrophy: Over time, the natural breast tissue may thin due to pressure from the implant.
3. Late Seroma: A fluid buildup occurring years after surgery, often linked to implant rupture or infection.

Extremely Rare Complications (<0.01%)

1. Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): A rare type of lymphoma linked to textured implants, (especially with macrotextured which are no longer used and baned) typically presenting as swelling years after surgery. A specific rate is hard to provide, but some literature says it’s around 1 case in 3000 breast augmentation.
2. Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women report systemic symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog, though this is not yet fully understood by medical science.

It’s important to note that complication rates can vary depending on factors such as surgical technique, implant type, and patient characteristics. The FDA emphasizes that breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, and the longer they are in place, the higher the risk of complications.

Comparing the literature, we see some consistency in identifying common complications like capsular contracture and reoperation. However, specific rates can vary widely between studies. For instance, implant rupture rates range from 1.1% to 17.7% depending on the type of procedure and follow-up period.

In conclusion, while breast augmentation is generally safe, patients should be aware of potential complications and discuss these thoroughly with their surgeon before proceeding.