Informed consent
What risks should you discuss before breast augmentation?
Understanding a possible benefit also means understanding what could go differently than planned.
Direct answer
Breast augmentation has surgical and, with implants, device-related risks.
Possible complications include anesthesia problems, bleeding, infection, healing or scar concerns, sensation changes, pain, capsular contracture, rupture or deflation, position changes, and additional surgery.
The FDA association with BIA-ALCL, reports of SCC and other capsule lymphomas, and reported systemic symptoms also belong in the discussion. A physician must explain how your health, anatomy, operation, and specific device shape the risks.
Approval is not risk-free
Approved devices still carry warnings, complications, and follow-up responsibilities.
Future surgery may occur
Implants are not lifetime devices, and no reoperation guarantees an outcome.
Specific labeling matters
Review the boxed warning, decision checklist, and device information.
General surgical risks still apply.
Risks can include bleeding, hematoma, infection, fluid accumulation, delayed healing, scarring, persistent pain, and temporary or lasting sensation changes.
Health history, healing factors, anesthesia, and the proposed operation require an individualized discussion.
Implant-related complications can require treatment.
Complications can include capsular contracture, rupture or deflation, rippling, visibility, asymmetry, and movement from the intended position.
Some complications may require implant removal, replacement, or another operation. Review current labeling for the specific device.
Rare and reported risks deserve context.
The FDA identifies an association between implants and BIA-ALCL, an immune-system lymphoma that has occurred more frequently with textured implants. It has also received reports of SCC and other lymphomas in the capsule around implants.
Some people report systemic symptoms such as fatigue, concentration difficulty, muscle or joint pain, or rash. Causes and individual risk are not well established; concerns need medical evaluation.
Informed consent
Safety questions to ask
General risk lists should become a plan-specific conversation.
- 01 Which risks are most relevant to my health, anatomy, and plan?
- 02 May I review the current boxed warning and device labeling?
- 03 How do fill, surface, size, placement, and incision affect risk?
- 04 How would complications be recognized and managed?
- 05 What short- and long-term follow-up is planned?
- 06 What alternatives, including no surgery, should I consider?
Sources behind this guide
This page summarizes current patient guidance from government and professional sources. Open the links to review the full context.
Source links checked August 3, 2026
FAQ
Safety questions to ask
Does FDA approval mean no risks?
No. Approved implants still carry known warnings, complications, and follow-up responsibilities.
What is capsular contracture?
It is tightening of the scar-tissue capsule around an implant and may cause firmness, discomfort, or appearance changes.
What is BIA-ALCL?
It is an immune-system lymphoma, not breast cancer, that generally develops in fluid or scar tissue around an implant.
Are reported systemic symptoms fully understood?
No. Causes and individual risk are not well established, so symptoms should be evaluated by a health care provider.
Continue your research
View all guidesUnderstanding implant options
Saline or silicone?
Compare implant fills, rupture detection, and long-term considerations without treating either option as universally better.
Long-term implant care
Implant lifespan and monitoring
Understand why implants have no guaranteed expiration date and what long-term follow-up may involve.
Verify before deciding
How to choose a plastic surgeon
Use official records and specific questions to evaluate credentials, communication, facility planning, risks, and follow-up.
Request consultation
Bring every safety question.
Review risks, limitations, alternatives, and device information without pressure to proceed.
Request a private consultation