Understanding the Benefits & Risks of Breast Implants

natrelleimplantchecklist

Get Informed

Before choosing breast implants, it’s essential to weigh the benefits & risks. Reviewing this document is a crucial step in making an informed decision. It outlines key breast implant risks identified through clinical trials, scientific studies, and patient reports.

When considering breast implants, you should be aware of the benefits & risks. This document provides details on:

  • Candidate Considerations for Breast Implantation
  • Risks of Breast Implant Surgery
  • Risk of BIA-ALCL (textured/tear drop implants have been discontinued)
  • Systemic Symptoms/Breast Implant Illness
  • Breast-Implant Specific Risks
  • Recommended Follow-up
  • Questions for Your Physician
  • Options Following Mastectomy
  • Breast Augmentation Choices
  • Discussing the Risks & Benefits of Breast Implants with Your Physician

This Patient Decision Checklist supplements other documents your physician should provide. These include details about your specific breast implant, breast implant safety documents, a boxed warning, and a Patient Decision Checklist. After reviewing these materials, discuss them with your physician to ensure you fully understand the benefits & risks of breast implants.


The Benefits of Breast Implants: Enhancing Confidence & Body Proportions

Breast implants offer several benefits, including enhanced breast shape, volume, and symmetry. Many women choose implants to restore breast fullness after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. For those undergoing breast reconstruction after mastectomy, implants can help restore confidence and body image. Additionally, implants provide a long-lasting enhancement compared to temporary solutions like padded bras or contouring garments.

Breast Implant Benefits & Risks for Fitness Competitors/Bodybuilders

For bodybuilders and fitness competitors, maintaining body symmetry is essential. Due to low body fat levels, natural breast volume often decreases. Breast implants can help restore feminine contours while maintaining an athletic, toned physique. Implants also provide aesthetic balance between developed muscle tone and overall body shape.

While implants can enhance body proportion, it’s important to understand the risks of breast implant surgery, including implant shifting, rippling, or long-term complications due to intense physical activity. Discuss these breast implant risks with your surgeon to choose the best option for your lifestyle.

Restoring Volume & Confidence: Benefits for Mothers After Nursing

Pregnancy and breastfeeding often lead to breast volume loss and shape changes. Many mothers choose breast implants to restore pre-pregnancy fullness, improve symmetry, and regain confidence. Breast augmentation can provide natural-looking lift and enhancement, allowing women to feel more comfortable in their bodies.

However, it’s important to weigh the risks of breast implants, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or changes in breast sensation. Consulting with a board-certified surgeon ensures that you fully understand the benefits & risks of breast implant surgery.

Weighing the Risks: Long-Term Considerations for Breast Implants

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. The longer you have them, the higher the chance of complications, requiring replacement or removal. Studies show that 32.4% of women who received implants for augmentation had them removed within 10 years. However, implant longevity varies. Some patients have had theirs for over 20 years.

When & Why a Breast Implant May Need Replacement

Implants may need to be replaced due to complications such as rupture, leakage, capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant), or changes in breast shape over time. Other reasons include discomfort, implant displacement, or a patient’s preference for removal or revision to change size. Regular check-ups help monitor implant condition and detect potential issues early.

Systemic Symptoms & Breast Implant Illness: What You Should Know

Some individuals report experiencing systemic symptoms they attribute to their breast implants, commonly referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII). Symptoms may include chronic fatigue, joint pain, memory issues, rashes, and headaches. While research is ongoing, some patients find symptom relief after implant removal. If you experience unexplained health concerns, discuss your symptoms with your doctor to determine the best course of action.