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Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, has been the most common elective cosmetic surgery in the United States for over a decade. Last year alone, there were over 300,000 breast augmentation surgeries performed across the United States. This figure represents a 3% increase from the year before, and a 41% increase from the number of similar surgeries performed in 2000.
The science behind breast augmentation surgery is sound, and the FDA has approved cosmetic breast augmentation surgery. However, the popularity of the surgery has resulted in a situation in which medical providers rush to fill the perceived demand, often overlooking critical safety protocols along the way. Indeed, the FDA estimates that approximately 1% of all patients undergoing a breast augmentation surgery will experience some form of complication or adverse medical event. These may include:
- Asymmetry,
- Breast pain,
- Rupture,
- The need for additional surgeries,
- Anaplastic large cell lymphoma,
- Infection, or
- Chest wall deformity.
Of course, all medical providers are required to provide patients with a reasonable level of care. In addition, the manufacturers of breast implants have a duty to patients to ensure that their product is safe. A failure of either a manufacturer or a provider to fulfill their duty can result in their being held liable for any injuries through an Illinois medical malpractice or product liability lawsuit.
Tips for Breast Augmentation Patients
While patients can never guard against all risks, there are certain things patients can do to help protect themselves before going under the knife. For example, patients should review all product literature and consult with their medical provider about the specific type of implant that the provider plans on using. There are several different types of breast implants, each with its own set of risks.
Patients should also engage their provider in a detailed conversation about the specifics of the surgery. For example, determining where incisions will be made and learning about prior adverse incidents can help a patient feel more comfortable going into surgery.
It is important to remember that post-operative care is as important as pre-operative care. Patients who have recently undergone breast augmentation surgery should maintain a close watch on their condition, and they should alert their medical provider as soon as they notice something may be wrong. Additionally, in the event of an adverse medical event, a patient should reach out to a dedicated Illinois medical malpractice attorney to discuss which options they have moving forward.
Have You Suffered Through a Botched Surgery?
If you or a loved one has recently suffered through what you believe to have been a botched surgical procedure, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through an Illinois surgical malpractice lawsuit. The attorneys at Moll Law Group represent clients in all types of Illinois personal injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice lawsuits. We offer free consultations to victims, at which we can explain how we may be able to help them obtain the compensation they deserve. Call 312-462-1700 to schedule your free consultation today.
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