Sheyla Hershey, a Brazilian model with the largest breasts in the world, is experiencing complications following her latest breast surgery.

After more than 30 plastic surgeries, Hershey suffered her first complication when a severe staph infection reached both of her breasts following her most recent breast augmentation procedure in Brazil this past June, according to Fox News in Houston.

The model and mom, who lives in Houston, said her new surgeon told her she should be concerned for her life because the infection could leak into her bloodstream. Hershey has had to give herself infusions of intravenous antibiotics every twelve hours to fight the infection.

While frightening, is this complication common after breast surgery?

Dr. Michael Will, who performs breast augmentation and breast implant repairs, had this to say:

Breast augmentation procedures should be preceded by a comprehensive consultation between the cosmetic surgeon and the patient, where the patient’s concerns and expectations are discussed in relation to the patient’s breast and chest wall anatomy.

An effective evaluation and treatment plan should result in a post-operative outcome that reaches a balance between the patient’s expectations and the surgeon’s surgical and anatomical limitations to yield an esthetic and healthy outcome. When the surgical tissue tension and stress exceed the capacity for normal healing, wound breakdown and infection often develop.

However, infection related to breast augmentation is rare, and when encountered, the implants frequently need to be removed and replaced at a later date.

In 2009, Hershey was a 38KKK and received the Brazilian equivalent of the Guinness Book of World Records award.

Hershey is currently undergoing treatment, according to her website www.sheylahershey.net, which includes updates on her condition.