The consequences of unsatisfactory breast surgery

Like any surgery, breast augmentations and reductions do carry risks, and can result in a number of complications. Here are some of the most prominent problems that can emerge:

Aesthetic problems

One of the most prevalent issues is that the outcome the patient received is not what they expected, or something they are unhappy with. This could be because:

• The breasts are not the expected size or shape

• The breasts are asymmetrical

• The breasts are uneven or lopsided

• The breasts are disfigured

• There are obvious signs of scarring

If the result is not in line with the person’s expectations, this can result in severe emotional distress, and necessitate the need for further surgery to rectify the problem.

Capsular contraction

Capsular contraction is when scar tissue around an implant in one or both breasts shrinks too much, which then squeezes the implant and causes the skin to harden around it. This can be unsightly and also cause a substantial amount of pain and discomfort, and may require surgery to correct the issue.

Infection and wounds

As with other surgeries, it is possible for a patient to contract infections in the open wounds made during the procedure which, depending on the severity of the infection, can have major repercussions for their short-term and long-term health. If an implant becomes infected, it may need to be removed before it can cause further damage to a person’s wellbeing.

Furthermore, following breast reduction surgery, it is possible for wound separation or skin loss to occur, causing further discomfort, or for the person to suffer fat necrosis – when the fat in the breast dies.

Nipple necrosis and changes in sensation

It is possible that nerve damage caused during surgery can lead to the person’s nipples becoming painfully sensitive, or that they lose sensation altogether.

Furthermore, a mistake may cut off blood supply to the nipple. A misplaced incision during surgery or an overly large implant squashing the veins leading to the nipple could result in a nipple dying known as nipple necrosis.

Implant ruptures

While implants become more prone to rupture as they age, it should be 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. If one or both rupture after only a few months, it could be a sign that the augmentation was performed negligently.

Siliconomas and gel bleeds

Siliconomas are small lumps of silicone that can be very tender. If an implant ruptures, this can lead to silicone escaping into the muscles under your breast, armpit, arm nerves and lymph glands, which may cause:

• Autoimmune problems

• Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)

• Anaemia and blood clots

Gel bleeds can also be problematic, as if silicone molecules get into the lymphatic systems, these glands can swell and become very uncomfortable.

Excessive scarring

While all breast surgeries will result in some degree of scarring, it is possible that mistakes during the procedure can cause this to be more excessive than it should have been.

This can again negatively impact the aesthetic appearance of the person’s breasts, and the scarring can sometimes become red, lumpy and painful.

Haematoma

Bleeding can occur with any surgery, and cause a haematoma, without any fault on the part of the surgeon. In these instances, a further operation may be required to stop the bleeding or prevent pressure causing necrosis.

The vast majority of all breast augmentations and reductions are conducted without any issue by highly competent plastic surgeons. However, negligence can and does happen on occasion – this could be:

• Failure to inform the patient of the risks involved

• Failure to spot a medical condition

• Administering the wrong dosage of anaesthetic

• The aesthetic not being as agreed

• Surgical errors leading to physical disfigurement

• Use of faulty or unsuitable medical equipment (including implants)

• Allowing the patient to contract an infection during surgery

• Substatand post-operative care

At Gadsby Wicks, we work hard to seek justice for those let down by their surgeons. We understand that when things do not go to plan, it can be devastating to the person affected and their loved ones.

As medical negligence specialists, we investigate all evidence associated with a claim and speak to medical experts to determine whether the outcome was due to negligence. Once that is established, we then pursue the fitting amount of compensation based on:

• Pain, suffering and loss of amenity (PSLA) – including psychological damage

• The costs of corrective procedures

• Therapy sessions to support the claimant emotionally and psychologically

• Loss of earnings due to additional procedures or time off for physical or mental health reasons

What if the surgery happens abroad?

Many people choose to have cosmetic procedures performed overseas, as this can often be cheaper than having the surgery in the UK.

We deal with breaches of obligation in England and Wales. If the contract for the procedure is made in England or Wales and then performed overseas, we can support a medical negligence claim. If the contract is made outside of England and Wales, we cannot help someone make a claim.