Is there any connection between breast implants and breathing problems or other pulmonary issues?

Question

My sister had implants about 3-4 years ago. Recently she was diagnosed with a pulminary embulism. She was hospitalized but then sent home and taking medicine to reduce the clot when it was determined that she needed oxygen at home. After two weeks her symptoms got worse and her systems crashed. She is currently being hospitalized and the doctors can't seem to pinpoint what caused the crash.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, having breast implants should not lead to a spontaneous pulmonary embolism.  During any operation done with general anesthetic (with the person completely asleep), it is possible for a blood clot to form in the legs, and this can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).  However, this happens shortly after the operation, not years later.

Ross Stutman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. A blood clot can form after any surgery, however, it is more likely in a procedure that takes several hours longer then the typical breast augmentation. It would also be very rare for this problem to occur this far out from her surgery. It is more likely that the clot formed due to another reason.I recommend she talk with her primary care physician to discuss what may have led to this unfortunate problem. A short list of risk factors include; smoking, birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, long periods of immobilization (for example long flights or car rides), certain medications, cancer, chronic illnesses, and potentially a primary problem with her blood clotting profile.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman

Vincent P. Marin, MD, FACS · Answer

A pulmonary embolus is a possibility with any surgery, prolonged sitting or even flying. However, this would normally be evident soon after the procedure/event. This sounds to be a complicated situation and would need to be evaluated in person. Best of luck,
Vincent Marin, MDSan Diego Plastic Surgeon

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

I am sorry to hear of your sister's medical problem.  Although, a pulmonary embolism can be associated with any type of surgery, the embolism would occur in the first few days after the surgery.  If your sister had her augmentation 3-4 years ago, her embolism would not be caused by the breast implants.  There are a number of things that can cause pulmonary embolisms and I am certain her doctors will do everything they can to see why this may have occurred and how to prevent it in the future.  Best wishes, Dr, Lepore.

Is there any connection between breast implants and breathing problems or other pulmonary issues?

Answers (4)