Understanding Common Breast Implant Issues

Capsular Contracture: This occurs when scar tissue surrounding the implant tightens, leading to firmness, distortion, or pain. It can develop months or years post-surgery and may recur after corrective procedures.
Implant Rupture: Saline implants rupture within approximately 10% of cases within five years—while generally harmless, they deflate quickly. Silicone ruptures are harder to detect and may raise concerns about health effects.
Cancer Risk (BIA-ALCL): A rare form of lymphoma—breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma—has been linked primarily to textured implants. Though uncommon, it’s a notable risk that regulators continue to monitor.
Systemic and Autoimmune Symptoms (Breast Implant Illness, or BII): Many patients report symptoms ranging from chronic fatigue, joint/muscle pain, cognitive issues, to dryness (eyes, mouth). While the condition isn’t officially recognized and lacks diagnostic criteria, emerging evidence and patient narratives have led authorities like the FDA to acknowledge reported systemic symptoms and require updated warnings.

The FDA has boosted warnings around breast implants, including black box notices, and recommends better patient education. A panel stressed the importance of making more digestible, clear adverse-effects information available to prospective patients.
While breast implants don’t increase breast-cancer rates, they can make detection via mammography more challenging, and complications can delay accurate diagnosis.

Spotlight: Dr. Karen Singer — Expertise and Vision

Credentials & Background: Dr. Karen Singer is a Harvard-educated, board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience practicing in St. Petersburg, FL. She holds extensive training, including a fellowship in hand surgery, and is well-regarded in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Patient Feedback: Reviews describe her as caring, detail-oriented, with high patient satisfaction. Her bedside manner and symmetry-driven results—especially here honest and compassionate approach are frequently praised.
Breast Procedures: Dr. Singer performs breast augmentation, breast reduction and breast lift surgeries among other procedures, with the patients health and concerns in mind. Her continued education ensures the most advanced techniques and approach for a positive and lower risk breast surgery.

Know the risks: capsular contracture, rupture, rare lymphoma, and systemic symptoms.
Stay updated with credible sources, consult experts, and weigh long-term health over aesthetics.

Dr. Singer offers seasoned expertise, compassion, and a patient-first approach.
If you’re exploring implant surgery or removal, choosing a board-certified provider who prioritizes informed consent and takes concerns seriously is crucial—and Dr. Singer exemplifies that standard.