Breast asymmetry correction carries the general risks of any operation, including bleeding, infection, blood clots and anaesthetic complications, plus risks specific to breast surgery such as persistent or new asymmetry, capsular contracture, changes in nipple sensation, scarring and implant-related problems. Careful assessment, a tailored plan and good aftercare reduce these risks, and knowing the warning signs allows problems to be treated promptly.
General surgical risks
- Bleeding and haematoma: a collection of blood can cause one breast to swell rapidly and may need a return to theatre.
- Infection: usually treated with antibiotics; infection around an implant occasionally requires its removal.
- Blood clots: deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are uncommon but serious; early walking and, where appropriate, compression stockings help.
- Anaesthetic risks: breast surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic, and the anaesthetist will assess you beforehand.
- Wound healing problems: delayed healing is more likely in smokers and where a lift or reduction has been performed.
Risks specific to asymmetry correction
- Persistent asymmetry: the breasts are unlikely to be identical after surgery, and some difference commonly remains.
- New asymmetry: each side may heal and settle differently, occasionally creating a new imbalance.
- Nipple and skin sensation: sensation may increase, decrease or be lost, and can differ between sides.
- Scarring: scars vary with technique and may be more visible on one side if different procedures were used.
- Nipple position: one nipple may sit slightly higher or point differently after healing.
Implant-related risks
Where implants are used, additional risks include capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around the implant, which can change shape and cause discomfort), rippling, implant rupture, malposition and the need for further surgery in the future, as implants are not lifetime devices. Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare cancer of the immune system linked mainly to textured implants, which usually presents as late swelling of one breast. Some people report a range of symptoms they attribute to their implants, sometimes called breast implant illness. Mr Nassab will discuss all of these, and the choice of implant, at consultation.
How risks are reduced
Safety starts with a detailed assessment: measuring both breasts, checking nipple position, the breast fold and chest wall, and understanding your goals. Mr Nassab plans each side individually, choosing implants, lift or reduction techniques to suit your anatomy. Stopping smoking and nicotine products before and after surgery, maintaining a stable weight and disclosing all medications help reduce complications. Surgery is performed in a CQC-registered hospital, with sterile technique and antibiotic protocols. Clear aftercare instructions and planned follow-up allow early review if something does not look right.
What is normal during healing
Swelling, bruising and tightness are expected, and often differ between the two sides because different procedures were performed. Implants typically sit high initially and settle over several months. Temporary numbness or tingling, mild itching as nerves recover, and scars that look pink and slightly raised at first are also normal. These changes improve gradually.
When to seek help
- Urgent contact with the surgical team: one breast or one side rapidly swells, becomes tense or very painful.
- Same-day contact with the team: fever, spreading redness, wound discharge or a wound that opens.
- Same-day GP or NHS 111: one-sided leg swelling or calf pain.
- 999: chest pain or breathlessness.
- Prompt review: later swelling or a change in shape of a breast with an implant, even years after surgery.
Longer-term considerations
Breasts continue to change with age, weight, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and asymmetry can reappear over time. If implants are used, further surgery may be needed in the future. Continue to attend NHS breast screening when invited, telling the radiographer about your implants, and check your breasts regularly. Breast surgery is only for adults aged 18 and over. See also the recovery guide.
Choosing implants with safety in mind
Implant choice affects both the result and certain risks. Mr Nassab will discuss implant surface, shape, size and manufacturer, and explain the reasons behind his recommendation for each breast. You will receive information about the implant used and it will be recorded on the national Breast and Cosmetic Implant Registry, which helps patients be contacted if any safety issue is identified in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my breasts be perfectly symmetrical after surgery?
No surgery can make breasts identical. The aim is improved balance, and some difference is normal.
What is capsular contracture?
It is hardening of the scar tissue around an implant, which can change the breast’s shape and cause discomfort. It sometimes needs further surgery.
Can breastfeeding be affected?
Some procedures, particularly lifts and reductions, can affect the ability to breastfeed. Mr Nassab will discuss this before surgery.
Is rapid swelling of one breast an emergency?
Yes. Contact the surgical team urgently, as it may indicate bleeding that needs prompt treatment.
Related Guides
- Breast Asymmetry Correction Recovery
- Breast Asymmetry Correction: Questions to Ask
- Is Breast Augmentation Painful?
- The Inframammary Fold Explained
- Breast Augmentation Risks and Safety
- Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
- Breast Augmentation: Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
- Choosing a Breast Augmentation Surgeon in the UK
