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Breast Augmentation: Risks Breast augmentation is a relatively straightforward procedure, but as with any surgery, there are risks and uncertainties. These are not common, but you should be aware of the possible complications that include: Bleeding following the operation. If it continues, another operation may be needed to control the bleeding and remove the accumulated blood. Postoperative infection. A small percentage of women develop an infection around the implant. If the body does not respond to antibiotics, the implant may need to be removed for several months until the infection is cleared, and then a new implant is inserted. Changes in nipple or breast sensation. Nipple numbness may be temporary or permanent. Capsular contracture. If the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten, the breast will feel hard and sometimes result in a baseball-like appearance. The implant may need to be removed or replaced, or the scar tissue may need to be surgically removed. Rippling or wave-like appearance on breast that look like indentations. In most cases the ripple occurs as the implant moves. Shifting of the implant. The device can move from its original placement and/or push through layers of tissue and become visible at the surface of the breast. (Placing the implant beneath the muscle may help to minimize this problem.) Implant leaking or rupture. An injury from a blow to the chest, a compression during mammogram, or even normal movement could cause the implant casing to leak. If a saline-filled implant breaks, the implant will deflate in a few hours and the salt water will be harmlessly absorbed by the body. A ruptured or leaking implant must be replaced which requires a second surgery. Back: Recovery Next: Costs