Breast surgery is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures among women, often chosen to enhance the appearance of their breasts after weight loss, pregnancy or ageing.
While certain physical changes are a natural part of the healing process, there are instances where developments in your condition may indicate that something is not unfolding as it should. Understanding the distinction between normal post-operative recovery and signs of potential concern is essential in assessing the quality of care you received and determining whether further action may be appropriate.
This guide outlines how to distinguish between typical post-surgery symptoms and potential signs of negligence. It also explains the steps you can take if something has gone wrong – including whether you may be eligible to pursue breast surgery compensation claims due to negligence.
Normal healing vs complications
Following breast surgery, there are certain side effects and physical changes that are considered part of the normal healing process. These typically include:
- Swelling and inflammation around the surgical site
Bruising or mild discolouration of the skin - Mild to moderate pain or discomfort, particularly in the days immediately after the procedure
- Tightness or sensitivity in the chest area as the tissues settle
In some cases, localised infection may occur at the incision site. While this is not uncommon, it should be identified and addressed promptly. During your scheduled follow-up appointments, your surgeon should check for signs of infection and take appropriate steps to manage it, such as prescribing antibiotics or arranging further care if necessary.
A responsible and qualified surgeon should clearly explain these expected side effects in advance and provide detailed advice on how to manage them at home. They should also offer guidance on what level of scarring is likely, what aftercare products or routines to follow, and what realistic results you can expect as you recover. If they fail to adhere to these standards and you suffer complications as a result, you may be entitled to compensation.
Potential complications to be aware of
While many people experience a smooth and straightforward recovery following breast surgery, complications can arise – particularly if the procedure was carried out negligently or without the appropriate standard of care.
Some of the more serious complications that may occur include:
- Severe or untreated infection: beyond mild localised infection, more serious infections can develop if early signs are missed or left unmanaged. These may require urgent medical treatment and, in some cases, further surgery.
- Concerns relating to breast implants: in procedures involving implants, complications can include shifting of the implant, rupture or changes in shape or texture over time. These issues may affect how the breasts look or feel and may need to be corrected.
- Unexpected results or changes in appearance: you may notice that the shape, symmetry or positioning of the breasts does not match the outcomes discussed with your surgeon beforehand. In some cases, this may be due to how the procedure was carried out or a lack of proper planning.
- Scarring that goes beyond what was explained: while some scarring is a natural part of healing, raised or overly visible scarring may occur if your body responds differently to the healing process – or if wound care was not properly managed.
- Changes in breast or nipple sensation:sSome people experience reduced or altered sensation after surgery, which may improve over time or become long-lasting depending on how the procedure was performed.
- Issues with healing or skin condition: wounds that take longer than expected to heal or areas of skin that become damaged may indicate a problem with post-operative care or how the procedure was conducted.
- Emotional impact following surgery: breast surgery can have a significant emotional effect, especially if the results do not reflect what you were led to expect. Feelings of distress, anxiety or low confidence are understandable and should not be overlooked.
If you experience any of these outcomes and feel they were avoidable or not properly managed, you may wish to explore whether the standard of care you received was appropriate.
Medical attention
Following breast surgery, your health must remain your top priority. While some post-operative changes are to be expected, it is important to recognise when symptoms may indicate a complication. For mild concerns, such as general discomfort or questions about the healing process, you may wish to contact your breast surgeon for advice.
However, if you experience more urgent issues – such as a high temperature or increasing pain you should seek medical attention immediately. This may involve attending hospital in addition to notifying your surgeon.
If you feel uncertain about the care you are receiving or would like further reassurance, you should also consider seeking a second opinion. It is essential that any surgeon you consult is properly registered with the General Medical Council, and ideally affiliated with recognised professional bodies such as the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons or the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. These organisations help ensure surgeons meet high clinical standards that prioritise patient safety and wellbeing.
Document your experience
If you’ve experienced complications after breast surgery, keeping a detailed record of what you’ve been through is vital – especially if you’re considering making a claim for compensation.
Keep receipts for additional treatment
Collect receipts or invoices for any further medical care you’ve needed. This could include:
- Follow-up consultations or revision surgery
- Prescription medication or wound care supplies
- Private healthcare appointments or emergency treatment
These documents help show the extent and cost of your ongoing care.
Track travel and associated expenses
If you’ve had to travel frequently to appointments, whether to hospitals, clinics or specialist consultations, make a note of the journeys and retain any travel receipts. These costs may be recoverable as part of your claim.
Record’s loss of earnings
If complications from your breast surgery have affected your ability to work, keep a record of:
- Dates and duration of any time off
- Correspondence with your employer
- Evidence of lost income, such as wage slips or self-employment records
This information helps to show the financial impact of your experience.
Note emotional and psychological impact
Your mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. Keep a journal or log describing how the complications have affected:
- Your self-esteem or body confidence
- Your ability to socialise or carry out daily tasks
- Your overall mental health
This personal account helps provide context for the broader impact of your surgery.
Maintain a timeline of appointments
Record every interaction with your original surgeon and other professionals. Include:
- Pre-operative assessments
- Post-operative appointments
- Emergency consultations or second opinions
Include the dates, locations and names of the clinicians involved.
Save all correspondence
Keep copies of emails, messages or letters between you and your surgeon or clinic. This evidence may support your account of how concerns were raised and addressed over time.
Instruct specialist solicitors
If you are considering pursuing compensation following negligent breast surgery, it is important to seek advice from solicitors who specialise in cosmetic surgery law. A specialist solicitor will have the expertise to clearly explain your rights, assess the strength of your case and guide you through each step of the legal process with confidence and care.
They will help you gather the evidence required to support your claim, including medical records, financial documentation and details of how the surgery has affected your life. Should your case proceed, your solicitor will represent you throughout – including attending court hearings on your behalf where necessary – and work to secure the best possible outcome for your individual circumstances.
Hopefully, your breast surgery has gone to plan and any side effects you’re experiencing are simply a part of the recovery process. However, If you believe that you have suffered complications in your breast surgery because of your surgeon’s failure to meet their obligations to your wellbeing, you could be entitled to compensation. By following the outlined steps, you could receive the financial compensation and justice you deserve.
