Necrosis

Necrosis is local tissue death that occurs in groups of cells because of disease or injury.  In the case of breast implants, the dead tissue forms around the implant.  This can prevent healing of the wound, and can require surgical correction.  Sometimes, implant removal is necessary.    

Certain factors that increase the risk of necrosis are:  chemotherapy and/or radiation, smoking, infection, excessive cold or heat therapy, and use of steroids in the pocket.  

Necrosis can also leave large, permanent scars.

If you notice a wound/incision opening back up, you should contact your surgeon immediately.  Many surgeons will apply silver nitrate to the area, while others use different approaches. 

If you smoke, you should try to quit prior to your breast augmentation surgery.  If you are having a breast lift, it is even more important that you try to stop smoking.  You will have more incisions, and if these areas don't receive an adequate oxygen supply, necrosis will be more of a risk.  There is no reason to take a chance with this, since you can greatly reduce the risk by quitting smoking.

Thankfully, necrosis is not a common problem.

 

 

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