Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries among women looking to enhance their confidence and natural appearance. Despite its popularity, however, many women still come to us with questions and uncertainties about the procedure.
Think you might be interested in a breast augmentation, but feeling uneasy due to unanswered questions about the procedure and its results?
Here, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we hear about breast augmentation so you can be well informed about the procedure and its risks and outcomes as you’re deciding whether or not it’s right for you.
This is a challenging question to answer, as every individual is different and what is best for one person might not be best for another. Some patients worry that they may be too old for breast augmentation surgery, while others wonder if perhaps a different procedure – like a breast lift – might be more appropriate for achieving their goals.
The best way to know if breast augmentation surgery is a feasible option for you is to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During that consultation, you’ll be able to discuss your goals and what you’re looking for in terms of the surgery’s outcome. You’ll also be able to review any concerns you have and discuss other procedures that might help you to achieve the look you have in mind.
It is possible to breastfeed after having breast implants, and studies have shown that it is safe to do so, both for the mother and the baby. That being said, if you are planning to have children following your breast augmentation you should discuss this with your doctor as implants can sometimes impact a woman’s milk supply.
It is not necessary to wait until after having children to move forward with a breast augmentation; many women choose to get breast implants before they start their families. However, it’s important to recognize that pregnancy and breastfeeding can impact the shape and size of women’s breasts whether or not they have undergone breast surgery. If you’re hoping to maintain your results for as long as possible, it may be in your best interest to undergo the procedure after you’ve completed your family. Talking to your doctor is the best way to know which option is right for you.
Breast implants are among the most studied medical devices on the market, and numerous studies have shown that breast implants do not cause increase risk for breast cancer in women or cause difficulty in detecting breast cancer.
Most women experience at least some change in nipple sensitivity as a result of breast augmentation surgery. While full sensation returns for most women within 6 to 12 months following surgery, some women do experience a permanent change in nipple sensation.
The answer to this question varies by provider, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It is important to recognize that in many cases, health insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery procedures so you will likely have to pay for your breast augmentation out of pocket.
That being said, many practices offer payment options to make the cost of cosmetic procedures affordable for their patients.
The answer to this question is dependent on the patient. While some patients never have any complications with their breast implants, others may need to have additional surgeries to correct asymmetry, ruptured implants, or other issues that arise over time. Essentially, there is no need to replace your implants unless a change occurs or an issue comes up.
You can learn more about what to expect when it comes to the longevity of your breast implants by talking to your doctor about the type of implant that will be used in your procedure.
Saline implants and silicone gel implants are two of the most common types of breast implants. Both types of implants are FDA-approved, and each type has benefits. It’s a good idea to do some research ahead of time to understand your options. Our comparison of saline implants vs. silicone gel implants is a good place to start if you’re looking for the fast facts about your implant options.
The best way to choose the breast implant type that is right for you is to talk to your doctor.
As part of your initial consultation, you will discuss your breast size goals with your doctor. You’ll also discuss the shape of the implant, as well as the placement of the implant – whether above or below the pectoral muscle.
It’s helpful to have an idea of the final outcome you’d like to achieve so that you’re well prepared to review your options with your doctor. After discussing your breast enhancement goals, your doctor will help to guide you with choosing the implant size, shape, and placement that’s best for you.
There are three common types of breast augmentation surgery incisions: the inframammary incision, the periareolar incision, and the transaxillary incision. Each type of incision has its own benefits and advantages. We delve into the details about each of these incision types here.
The ideal type of breast augmentation incision varies by patient. It’s important to discuss this with your doctor during your consultation in order to determine which incision option is best for you.
Every breast implant surgery is different, so each recovery period differs. Your doctor will provide you with very specific instructions about everything that comes after the surgery, from how to care for your incisions to when you can resume exercise and go back to work.
For most patients, the recovery period following breast augmentation surgery is very manageable. Typically, patients are able to return to work and resume light activity within about a week, but your doctor will develop a recovery plan that is specific to you and your procedure to ensure your recovery is thorough and your results are optimal.
Again, this will depend on the patient and the procedure so it’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor. However, in most cases women are able to return to work within a few following the procedure. If your job requires heavy lifting or physical activity, you may need to wait a bit longer before going back. Your doctor will provide you with individualized guidelines.
It’s important to stay active before and after your breast augmentation surgery, but it is likely that you will have to adjust your fitness routine following the procedure as you recover. Most women return to regular exercise about 6 to 8 weeks following surgery.
Your doctor will craft a specific plan based on your individual circumstances that will guide you when it comes to fully returning to exercise and other strenuous activities. Be sure to follow the guidelines provided by your medical team, as returning to exercise and strenuous activity too early could compromise your results and prolong the healing process.
Read more about exercising after plastic surgery here.
Being prepared for any plastic surgery procedure involves getting ready mentally and physically. For helpful tips about how to prepare for a cosmetic procedure, including breast augmentation surgery, be sure to check out our Guide to Preparing For Your First Plastic Surgery Experience.
There are also a number of specific things you can do to ensure that your breast implant surgery to go as smoothly as possible. At the very least, we recommend preparing your home and recovery area, investing in some larger bras, and coordinating plans for pets and children ahead of your surgery date. Be sure to review our more extensive list of tips for preparing for breast augmentation surgery here.
Looking for additional information about breast augmentation procedures? Have questions that we didn’t answer here? Don’t hesitate to ask!
Give us a call today at 518-793-0475 or contact us online and we’d be happy to provide the answers you’re looking for.
If you’re looking for an experienced breast implant surgeon in Upstate New York, look no further than Dr. Garcia of Garcia Plastic & Hand Surgery. Based in Glens Falls, NY, Dr. Garcia serves patients throughout Albany, Saratoga, Queensbury, and the Adirondacks.
Whether you’ve decided to move forward with breast implants or you’re still exploring your options and wondering if breast augmentation is right for you, we’d be happy to chat with you. Learn more about breast augmentation surgery at Garcia Plastic & Hand Surgery and request a consultation with Dr. Garcia here!
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