Breast surgery is a common form of cosmetic surgery chosen by many to enhance the appearance of their body and their confidence. Most people who opt for breast surgery have a positive experience, but for some, unexpected complications arise that can be physically and emotionally challenging. Below, we outline common issues that may indicate breast surgery negligence, along with practical steps to help if you believe your outcome could have been better managed.
Table of Contents
Physical signs of breast surgery complications
After breast surgery, certain physical changes are to be expected during the healing process. However, some signs may indicate that something isn’t quite right and could be linked to negligence. Recognizing these physical symptoms early on can help you address potential issues before they become more serious.
Persistent pain beyond expected healing time
While mild to moderate pain is normal after surgery, this discomfort generally fades within a few weeks as the body heals. If pain continues or intensifies beyond the expected recovery period, it may indicate an issue. Persistent pain might result from nerve damage, complications with implant placement or other surgical oversights. If you’re experiencing pain that seems disproportionate to the surgery’s timeline, it could be worth exploring further with a medical professional.
Breast asymmetry and implant displacement
Breast asymmetry or noticeable implant shifting can occur when implants aren’t placed with precision. When breasts appear uneven or implants shift position – for instance, sitting too high, too low or moving outwards – it might indicate problems with the initial placement or the surgical plan. In some cases, the type of implant used may not have been the most appropriate for the individual’s anatomy, leading to visible or tangible imbalances.
Signs of infections and post-surgical complications
Infections and complications are a risk after breast surgery, but some symptoms could signal a problem with the care provided. While mild symptoms are normal, persistent or worsening signs may indicate an issue, making timely attention essential.
Unusual redness and warmth in the surgical area
A certain level of redness and warmth can be expected in the early days following surgery, but if these symptoms persist or worsen, they could suggest infection. In some cases, infections arise due to lapses in surgical cleanliness or sterility protocols. Prolonged redness or skin that feels unusually warm might be worth further investigation, as these are common signs that the body is struggling with a localized infection, often requiring medical attention.
Fever and other systemic symptoms
Experiencing a fever, chills or general discomfort post-surgery can be a sign of infection. These symptoms, especially when combined with localized signs of infection like warmth or swelling, suggest the need for prompt evaluation. Negligence might play a role if infections are not addressed early, either due to improper discharge advice or a lack of clear aftercare instructions.
Persistent fluid build-up or discharge
Drainage is common post-surgery, as it helps to manage fluid build-up in the surgical area. However, discharge that is excessive, discolored or foul-smelling could signal an infection. In some instances, incorrect placement or removal of drains during surgery can increase the risk of fluid build-up. If you notice any unusual discharge, consulting with a medical professional could be beneficial to address any underlying concerns.
Aesthetic concerns and poor surgical outcomes
Breast surgery aims to provide natural, balanced results that meet your expectations. However, noticeable aesthetic issues or dissatisfaction with the outcome may indicate a problem with the surgical approach or technique. Below are common signs of poor results that could suggest possible negligence.
Noticeable rippling or wrinkling of implants
Some degree of rippling may naturally occur with certain types of implants, particularly in individuals with thin breast tissue. However, pronounced wrinkling or rippling might point to issues with implant placement or the type of implant selected. In certain cases, this can result from a lack of consideration for individual body structure, resulting in an uneven or unnatural appearance that wasn’t intended.
Uneven or unnatural appearance of breasts
When the breasts appear unusually firm, overly rounded or misshapen, it might indicate poor surgical technique. Unintended firmness can sometimes develop due to issues with implant positioning, while an overly round or asymmetrical appearance may result from implants that were incorrectly placed. In some cases, such outcomes are avoidable and may be grounds for further inquiry if the result doesn’t align with expectations or initial consultations.
Emotional and psychological impact of negligent breast surgery
Negligent breast surgery can have a lasting emotional impact, affecting self-confidence and mental wellbeing. Below are common psychological effects that may arise when outcomes fall short of expectations:
Emotional distress and anxiety post-surgery
It’s common to experience a degree of anxiety following any surgery, especially when dealing with unexpected complications. Many people who undergo cosmetic surgery expect results that enhance their self-confidence, so facing adverse outcomes can have a considerable impact on emotional well-being. A sense of distress or anxiety related to appearance may point to dissatisfaction that could potentially have been avoided with more thorough pre-surgical planning or support from the surgical team.
Post-surgery depression related to physical outcomes
Feelings of disappointment, sadness or even depression are not uncommon when surgery results in outcomes that feel far from the expected. Many individuals feel unprepared for the emotional toll that dissatisfaction with physical results can have. If you’re experiencing these feelings, it’s valuable to know they’re a natural reaction to what may be a challenging experience and can often be alleviated with support from both medical professionals and loved ones.
What to do if you suspect negligence
If you believe negligence may have impacted your breast surgery results, taking action can help you address concerns and seek support. Here are practical steps to consider if you suspect your care wasn’t up to standard:
Seek a second medical opinion
If you believe your results or complications may be due to negligence, consulting another qualified medical professional can be a helpful first step. A second opinion can offer clarity on whether the issues you’re facing were preventable and may provide guidance on how best to address them moving forward.
Gather documentation and evidence
Keeping thorough records of your experience, including medical records, photographs of your results and any correspondence with the original surgeon, can support your case if you decide to pursue further action. These documents can provide valuable insight and help you communicate your experience clearly to other professionals.
Contacting a specialist solicitor
Speaking with a solicitor who has experience in cosmetic surgery negligence can be a practical step if you feel that you are experiencing any of the common signs of breast surgery negligence. Specialist solicitors can help determine whether negligence played a role and advise on potential compensation avenues.
