Implants are commonly thought to be a safe way to enhance one’s appearance, whether it’s through a fuller face, a more contoured chin, or shapely calves. The perception that implants are mostly harmless is widespread, partly due to the normalization of cosmetic surgeries. However, the reality is that all implants, regardless of where they’re placed, carry a range of risks that can impact your health and quality of life. Complications like infection, implant displacement, or material rejection are potential dangers that shouldn’t be overlooked.
At Executive Plastic Surgery, Dr. Khan has committed his practice to educating patients on the risks associated with implants. A double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Khan is known for his patient-centered approach and strong stance against breast implants, which can lead to more harm than good. He is committed to informing his patients about the possible risks of implants, regardless of where they’re placed.
Some of the Most Common Sites for Implants:
- Chin implants: Chin implants create a more defined jawline and add balance to facial features. This procedure is often sought by those who feel they have a weak or receding chin. However, chin implants can pose risks like infection, nerve damage, and implant shifting.
- Calf implants: Calf implants are popular among people looking to enhance the shape or size of their calves, typically when exercise alone doesn’t produce the desired look. While calf implants can improve leg contour, they can also lead to complications like capsular contracture (hardening around the implant), infection, or asymmetry.
- Buttock implants: Buttock implants add volume and shape to the backside. However, they are among the most complex and risk-prone cosmetic surgeries and can lead to implant displacement, infection, and fluid accumulation. The risk of infection is especially high in this area as implants are often placed close to major muscles, which increases recovery time.
- Cheek implants: Cheek implants are intended to provide a fuller, more youthful look by enhancing the cheekbone area. While this can result in a more contoured face, cheek implants come with their own risks, including nerve damage, asymmetry, and even implant visibility if the tissue around the cheeks changes over time.
Risks of Implants Anywhere on the Body
Infection
One of the most common risks associated with any implant is infection, which can occur during or after surgery. Skin bacteria can enter the surgical site and lead to infection, necessitating antibiotics, drainage procedures, or even implant removal. Implant-related infections can be particularly challenging, as the body may react to foreign materials by forming scar tissue around the implant, which can harbor bacteria.
Displacement and shifting
Implants may shift or move from their original placement, especially in areas with high levels of muscle movement, like the calves, cheeks, or pectorals. When implants shift, it can distort the appearance and may lead to discomfort or pain. Correcting displaced implants often involves further surgery, which carries its own risks.
Nerve damage
Depending on where the implant is placed, there is a risk of nerve damage, which can result in numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation. For instance, cheek or chin implants can sometimes cause numbness in the face, which may be temporary or permanent. Nerve damage is a serious complication, as it can affect everyday activities and quality of life.
Capsular contracture
Capsular contracture is a condition in which the body forms excessive scar tissue around the implant, causing it to harden. This is especially common in areas like the calves or buttocks and can result in pain, misshapen appearance, and the need for corrective surgery.
Material rejection
In some cases, the body may reject the implant materials, leading to an inflammatory response. This can cause swelling, redness, pain, and fluid buildup around the implant. If the body rejects the implant, removal may be the only option to alleviate symptoms.
Long-term monitoring and maintenance
Implants often require regular monitoring and maintenance, as they are not lifelong devices. As time passes, implants can deteriorate, leak, or change position, necessitating check-ups or even additional surgeries to address these issues. Many people, unfortunately, underestimate the considerable ongoing care that implants often require.
Make Informed Decisions About Your Health
Dr. Khan’s approach to cosmetic surgery is centered on patient education. While implants may appear to offer quick solutions to cosmetic concerns, they come with real and sometimes severe risks. Dr. Khan encourages all patients to thoroughly understand the complications that implants can bring, from infections and nerve damage to the need for ongoing maintenance and possible implant removal. At his practice, he firmly stands against implant surgeries and only offers implant removal surgeries. If you have any other concerns about your cosmetic goals or implants, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Khan today.
