Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures performed today. If you’re like most potential candidates, you probably have many questions about the procedure.
Why would I consider breast augmentation? Am I an appropriate candidate for the surgery?
These are some of the questions you want to ask to make an informed decision. In this guide, you’ll discover essential things you want to know. Read on!
Table of Contents
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Women consider breast augmentation for different reasons. For example, they may want to enhance their breasts’ appearance, shape, and fullness.
If this sounds like you, breast augmentation surgery in Cleveland might be what you need.
Types of Breast Implants Available Today
Breast implants consist of a silicone shell. The shell is filled with either saline (saltwater) or cohesive silicone gel. The type of breast implants you choose depends on various factors. These may include personal preference and aesthetic goals.
Also, breast implants come in different sizes and shapes. Round implants can provide substantial fullness, cleavage, and lift. On the flip side, women looking to achieve breast fullness and a more natural projection can opt for teardrop-shaped (anatomical) implants. These sha[ed implants better mimic the slope of a natural breast.
Who Is the Appropriate Candidate for Breast Implants?
While breast augmentation can be performed on younger teens, the FDA has cleared silicone implants for women over the age of 22 and silicone implants for women over the age of 18.
Additionally, ideal candidates are:
- Not breastfeeding or pregnant
- Are healthy and have a stable weight
- Well-informed and have realistic expectations
- Non-smokers
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Surgeons perform the procedure under conscious sedation or general anaesthesia. It means the patient gets sedated or asleep for the process. It can vary depending on the patient and surgeon, and it’s best to consult your professional before starting anything.
Your surgeon will create a “pocket” using small incisions during the procedure.
After making room for the implant, they position them, close, and bandage the incisions.
The surgery takes at most two hours or less, and a patient can go home as soon as they awaken and are cleared (usually within a few hours of the surgery).
Preparing for the Surgery
If you’re thinking of breast augmentation surgery, ensure you consult your plastic surgeon. They will guide you on what you need to do before the day.
Some instructions may include:
- Avoid smoking for a specific period prescribed by your professional before the surgery
- Dress warmly and comfortably
- Limit alcohol intake and food before the surgery
- Let someone accompany you during and after the surgery (you will be unable to drive yourself home)
How Long Does the Recovery Take?
Recovery differs from one person to another person because everyone’s needs are unique. The average recovery time is between four to six weeks.
Most patients will experience significant improvement in the first week of the surgery; however, experts recommend avoiding strenuous exercises and activities until you heal completely.
Does the Surgery Cause Scarring?
Skin incisions are expected to leave scars. That said, most breast implant patients don’t experience issues with healing. Over time the scars lessen and become difficult to spot.
Additionally, breast augmentation incisions are made in easy-to-conceal locations, such as under the breast (along the inframammary crease), around the areola, or in the armpit (transaxillary incision).
You need to talk to your surgeon and understand the placement and size of the scars before the procedure.
What Kind of Results Should You Expect?
When you go for surgery, it’s critical to retain realistic expectations.
Here’s what breast augmentation can do for you:
- Ensure your hip-to-breast ratio is more balanced
- Enhance volume loss or asymmetry
- Improve the projection of the breasts, size, and shape
- Improve breast fullness
Note that breast augmentation surgery may have some limitations. If you fail to achieve desired results or notice severe sagging or drooping, a breast lift can help. This isn’t unusual, and surgeons can perform it alongside augmentation.
Life Post-Breast Augmentation Surgery
The results of this surgery can be long lasting. However, this depends on shape, size, type, and patient. So as you age, you may want to consider a breast lift or require a breast revision (secondary breast augmentation) to maintain your appearance.
Many women who have undergone this procedure report increased confidence. This is especially true for eligible women with realistic expectations and who can follow their surgeon’s instructions as expected.
If you want to gain the most out of breast augmentation, talk to your professional about any concerns because this can help you achieve desirable results.
Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?
If your health is okay, but you want to enhance the shape and size of your breast, this surgery might help. Evaluate your needs and consult an experienced professional to make an informed decision.
