Breast Augmentation General Q & A
Even though Breast Augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure, there are a lot of questions women have.This Q & A is an overview of some of them… but my intention here is not to replace the consultation. The consultation is an invaluable part of my process. It is crucial to get to know my patients personally and to get on the same page. I hope this blog helps you along your journey to deciding whether a Breast Augmentation is a good fit for you and I hope to be talking with you further at a consultation, which can be scheduled at www.davinciplastic.com.
What Is A Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation specifically addresses increasing breast size and shape. Other surgical procedures related to the breast are:
Breast Reduction makes large breast smaller and more manageable. Patients with too large of breasts suffer from back pain and other issues, and a reduction can provide great relief.
Breast Lift helps sagging breasts look younger and perky. This is great in combination with an Augmentation or Reduction.
Nipple Reduction specifically addresses only the nipples, which can get stretched out during breastfeeding or may be out of proportion in relation to the overall breast size. A Nipple Reduction can bring the nipple size in balance with the breast for a more aesthetic appearance.
Saline or Silicone?
Saline is a silicone shell filled with sterile saline, or salt water. Silicone is a completely silicone implant. Both are shown to be safe, effective and dramatically improved over the last few years. Within these categories, there are many kinds of implants to consider. This decision is highly up to personal preference and goals. As there are quite a few aspects of this question to address, I will dedicate my next blog just to this topic.
What Does The Surgery Involve?
- Preparation: Consultation and decision on the size and type of implant, location of implant and incision location. You may need to get a blood test, stop smoking, adjust medications and vitamins.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia in our highest quality outpatient center will help you feel completely comfortable during surgery.
- Incision: Your body type, breast size, type of implant, and scar preferences will help us to determine the optimal location (under breast line, armpit, belly button, or areola).
- Insertion: Many factors will help us decide whether the implant should be inserted into a pocket above or below the pectoral muscle, including the amount of breast tissue already present, drooping, position and size desired.
- Closing Incisions: This will involve internal sutures within layers of the breast tissue and on the surface skin closure.
- Recovery: Like with any major surgery, there will be a period of discomfort that can be managed by oral pain medication. The first week is low key while wearing a support bra and possibly tending to a drainage tube for a few of those days. After 2 weeks normal activities, except for exercise or strenuous exertion, can resume. We will see you and check on you to make sure you’re doing ok. It’ll take between 4 to 6 weeks to feel somewhat normal. The skin can continue to feel tight and sensitive beyond that, but it shouldn’t impede your everyday life.
- Results: Over and over again, my patients have confirmed that the recovery is worth the results. The implants take a few weeks to “settle” into their position and the scars will take some time to fade, but your body satisfaction and restored femininity are long lasting and well worth your investment in yourself!
Steven Davison M.D.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
