Breast Augmentation

There are several types of breast implants available for breast augmentation, including saline implants, silicone implants, and structured implants. Each type of implant has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of implant will depend on the patient's individual goals, preferences, and anatomy.

Breast augmentation is a highly personalized procedure, and it's important for patients to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can and cannot achieve. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help determine if breast augmentation is the right option for you and provide you with information on the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of the procedure.

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves increasing the size and enhancing the shape of the breasts using breast implants or fat transfer. The goal of breast augmentation is to improve the overall appearance of the breasts, enhance the patient's self-confidence, and create a more balanced and proportionate figure.

Breast augmentation is typically performed on women who are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts, or who have experienced a loss of breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. It may also be performed on women who have asymmetrical breasts, where one breast is noticeably smaller than the other.

Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?

The decision to undergo breast augmentation is a personal one, and whether or not you're a good candidate will depend on several factors, including your overall health, age, and breast anatomy. In general, good candidates for breast augmentation are women who:

Are in good overall health and do not have any medical conditions that could interfere with surgery or healing.

Are at least 18 years old for saline implants and 22 years old for silicone implants.

Have fully developed breasts.

Are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts.

Have realistic expectations about what breast augmentation can and cannot achieve.

Understand the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo breast augmentation should be made in consultation with a  plastic surgeon who can assess your individual needs and help determine if the procedure is right for you.

What are the benefits and risks of breast augmentation?

Benefits of breast augmentation may include:

Increased breast size and volume

Improved breast shape and symmetry

Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem

Improved body proportion and balance

Risks of breast augmentation may include:

Infection

Bleeding

Scarring

Pain or discomfort

Changes in nipple or breast sensation

Implant rupture or leakage

Need for future surgery to replace or remove implants

Changes in breast shape or size due to weight loss or gain, pregnancy, or aging

It's important to discuss the risks and benefits of breast augmentation with your surgeon and carefully consider your options before deciding to undergo surgery.

How to get ready for breast augmentation?

If you decide to undergo breast augmentation, there are several steps you can take to prepare for surgery, including:

Scheduling a consultation with your surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure.

Providing your surgeon with a complete medical history, including any medications or supplements you are taking.

Following any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, such as avoiding certain medications or stopping smoking.

Arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery and assist with your care during the first few days of recovery.

Purchasing any necessary post-operative garments or supplies recommended by your surgeon.

Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for your surgery, and it's important to follow these instructions carefully to help ensure a safe and successful outcome.

How to take care of yourself after breast augmentation?

After breast augmentation surgery, it's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least a week after surgery.

Wear a supportive surgical bra for several weeks to help minimize swelling and support the healing process.

Take any prescribed medications as directed, including antibiotics and pain medication.

Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing and progress.

Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as this can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.

Be gentle with your breasts and avoid any activities that could cause trauma or pressure to the surgical site.

Avoid sleeping on your stomach for several weeks after surgery.

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for yourself after surgery, including when it's safe to resume normal activities and when to schedule follow-up appointments.

How is the healing process and scarring after breast augmentation?

The healing process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient and can depend on several factors, including the type of implants used and the surgical technique used. In general, patients can expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort for the first few days after surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort.

During the healing process, it's important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully to help minimize scarring and ensure proper healing. You may be instructed to avoid certain activities or movements, such as lifting heavy objects or raising your arms above your head, for several weeks after surgery. You may also be advised to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to help support your breasts during the healing process.

Scarring is a normal part of the healing process after breast augmentation. Your surgeon will take care to place incisions in areas that are easily concealed by clothing or natural skin creases. Over time, the scars will fade and become less noticeable.

It's important to remember that the healing process after breast augmentation can take several weeks or even months, and it's important to be patient and follow your surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Your surgeon will monitor your healing and progress during follow-up appointments and provide guidance on when it's safe to resume normal activities.