Most breast implants have a long life and to this day, patients operated even 20 years ago have no problems if followed regularly.
All my patients have lifelong follow-ups included
Generally, a silicone prosthesis lasts for many years, but it must be checked over time by the local plastic surgeon and possibly carrying out magnetic resonance imaging.
However, there are situations in which even after a short time it is necessary to intervene to correct a problem. Over the years, I have specialized in correcting breast augmentation procedures that have developed complications.
The most frequent are capillary contracture, rippling, asymmetries, bottoming out, asymmetries of the sulci, broken prostheses
Capsular contracture is an ‘excessive’ reaction to the silicone prosthesis, normally a capsule is formed which contains the prosthesis but this pocket can thicken causing the breast to become deformed and cause pain. The first sign is a hardening that lasts for more than three months. When this thickening becomes more severe then it is necessary to intervene by removing the entire capsule and replacing a prosthesis. In recurrent cases it is advisable to insert a polyurethane prosthesis.
Rippling: occurs when the prosthesis is visible far beneath the skin, the typical sign of ‘waves’ on the skin. It can be corrected with fat injections (Lipofilling associated with regenerative cells) and/or by reinserting the prosthesis under the muscle
Bottoming out: occurs when the prosthesis is displaced under the breast beyond the fold. It can happen immediately after the operation (pocket too large or prosthesis too large) or over the years. It is a very annoying aesthetic complication. It is corrected by changing the prosthesis (generally smaller) and carrying out a caspuloraffia, closing the lower pole internally with reconstructive techniques with well-placed sutures.
Prosthesis rupture: it is a very rare event that generally does not cause harm to patients but it is a good idea to intervene early to avoid complications such as capillary contracture or the formation of lymph nodes. All my patients are checked periodically by me over the years. The prosthesis is changed trying to remove as much silicone as possible. They are generally associated with poor quality prostheses used in the past
Doubts or questions? It’s only natural to have any! Below I try to answer the most frequent ones. For further clarification you can write to me at any time, I will answer as soon as possible.
The consultation is a time to listen to your wishes and assess your medical history and individual characteristics. We discuss the available options and address your questions and expectations.
I assess treatment or surgery in relation to your individual characteristics and realistically achievable outcomes. During the consultation, we discuss the expected benefits, limitations and possible risks.
Aftercare advice and follow-up appointments are agreed according to the procedure and your individual needs. Recovery is monitored through assessment of your clinical progress and any further care you may need.