Breast Implants (enlargement/augmentation)

Breast implants, also known as enlargement or augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the country.

Last year breast augmentation procedures rose by 13% within the UK and are still increasing every year (baaps.org.uk 2014). However, due to the number of breast augmentation procedures, there are more cases of cosmetic surgery negligence than ever before.

There are two types of implants that tend to be used in breast enlargement surgery are:

Silicone Gel

They are the most common type of implant to be used in breast enlargement surgery. The implants are pre-filled before they are inserted. If the implants ruptured the silicone may spread to the scar tissue.

 Saline

They still have a silicone shell and maybe pre-filled or during the procedure using a valve. Saline solution is not harmful to the body. If the implants ruptured the saline would be reabsorbed by the body.

Although cosmetic surgery within the UK is currently unregulated, surgeons have a duty of care to you before, after and during your treatment. This means that they should make sure that you are ready for surgery mentally and physically, and that the surgery is performed safely. They must also ensure that you are provided with any necessary aftercare or advice.

It may be hard to tell straight away if you are faced with complications after your surgery. It usually takes a few days for the swelling to go down after the procedure or you may find that you have experienced symptoms straight away.

Things to look out for are:

• An adverse reaction to the anaesthetic
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection surrounding the area
• Rupture of the implant
• Small lumps outside of the scar  tissue  that maybe tender to touch (siliconomas)
• Noticeable changes to the size or shape of the breast (where the breast may have ruptured or leaked)
• Implants that have sagged or that have been placed too low down, causing the implant to ‘bottom out’

If you notice of these things happening to you it is important to seek medical advice and discuss your options.

We understand that it can be extremely difficult to talk about complications with your breast implants and can be unnerving not knowing what to do next. We have trained specialist Solicitors that can provide you with support and speak the cosmetic surgery company on your behalf.