Breast Augmentation Risk Profile

Breast Augmentation Risk Profile

Breast augmentation involves the placement of breast implants to increase breast size or improve shape. It carries both general surgical risks and implant-specific complications that may occur in the short or long term.

This page provides general and specific information only. Individual risks vary depending on your age, general health, tissue thickness, smoking status, diabetes, implant type and size, placement (submuscular or subglandular), incision site, and surgical technique. A detailed, personalised risk assessment will be provided during your consultation with Dr Kelly Thornbury in Sydney.

Important AHPRA note: All cosmetic surgery carries risks and requires a recovery period. Results vary from patient to patient and cannot be guaranteed. A mandatory cooling-off period applies before proceeding.

General Risks of Plastic Surgery

Refer to our General Risks of Plastic Surgery Profile page for full details on anaesthesia-related complications (including heart attack, stroke, chest infection, death, DVT/PE, sore throat/breathing difficulty, nausea), wound infection (higher in smokers and diabetics), heavy bleeding, poor or delayed wound healing, skin necrosis, wound dehiscence, bruising and swelling, haematoma/seroma/oedema, pain and discomfort, allergic reactions, altered sensation, adverse scarring, need for revision surgery, and psychological impact.

Specific Risks of Breast Augmentation

  • Capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant, causing pain, distortion, or firmness)
  • Implant rupture, leakage, deflation, or silent rupture (may require MRI for detection)
  • Implant malposition, rotation, bottoming out, double-bubble deformity, or symmastia
  • Visible or palpable rippling/wrinkling (more common with certain implant types, thin tissue coverage, or subglandular placement)
  • Breast asymmetry or unnatural shape/feel
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation (temporary or permanent numbness or hypersensitivity)
  • Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) — a rare cancer linked primarily to textured implants
  • Breast Implant Associated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (BIA-SCC) and other rare cancers in the capsule
  • Breast Implant Illness (BII) — reported systemic symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or other issues; the exact relationship with implants remains under study
  • Interference with mammography, breast cancer screening, or imaging (additional views or MRI may be required)
  • Difficulty with future breastfeeding or changes in milk production (particularly with periareolar incisions)
  • Calcification around the implant, implant extrusion, silicone gel bleed, or chest wall irregularities
  • Need for revision or reoperation surgery (implants are not lifetime devices; many patients require replacement or adjustment within 10–15 years or sooner)

I follow evidence-based practices, including the 14-point plan, to minimise risks such as infection and capsular contracture where possible.

Factors that significantly increase risks Smoking, diabetes, thin breast tissue, large implant size relative to your frame, and subglandular placement are associated with higher rates of complications including infection, delayed healing, capsular contracture, and skin necrosis. We will thoroughly assess these during your consultation and may recommend optimisation or advise against surgery if risks are considered too high.

Recovery Considerations Swelling, tightness, and bruising are expected in the early weeks. Final implant position and breast shape may take 3–6 months or longer to settle. You will need to wear a supportive surgical bra and attend regular follow-up in our Sydney clinic. Signs of complications (e.g. increasing redness, pain, fever, pus, wound discharge, shortness of breath, or calf pain) should be reported immediately.

Next Steps Book a consultation in our Sydney rooms for a detailed discussion of your specific risks, implant options and realistic expectations.

This information is educational and based on current Australian medical standards and AHPRA/Medical Board guidelines for advertising cosmetic surgery. Last reviewed April 2026.