08 Aug 4 Questions To Ask Your Plastic Surgeon Before Breast Augmentation
Are You Prepared For Your Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation helps women increase the size and volume of the breasts. The procedure involves placing silicone or saline implants in the breast to achieve desired results. Breast augmentation works well for women with breasts lacking cleavage and volume. Women with breast ptosis or asymmetric breasts are also excellent candidates. Despite the benefits, the procedure should not be taken lightly. The process requires experienced surgeons and some downtime. And like any procedure, there are risks. Getting prepared means getting informed. During any consultation with the plastic surgeon, ask these 4 questions.
1. What should I expect during surgery?
The procedure can take up to 2 hours if breast lifts, or mastopexy, are involved. The patient preps for surgery, and the surgeon may use markers to highlight the incision points. With the patient under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes incisions at the agreed-upon location. There are different entry points the surgeon can use. The selected implant is placed in the breast, and the incisions are closed. After a short observation period, the patient can leave the surgery center, usually on the same day.
2. How long is my recovery time?
The recovery timeline is different for each patient. Factors like patient health, implant size, incision type, and implant location contribute to recovery time. There will be post-operative pain, bruising, and swelling within the first week. This pain can last for up to 2 weeks. The bruising and swelling should subside at the 4-week mark. Most patients should be fully recovered after 6-8 weeks.
3. When will I see results?
In the initial weeks after surgery, the swelling can give the impression of bigger breasts. In some cases, the breasts appear higher on the chest wall than expected. This is a natural part of the healing process. Over several months, the breast tissue and implant will settle. Whether the implant is above or below the chest muscle will impact this timeline. On average, the final results can take between 6-12 months.
4. What are your experience and qualifications?
Breast implant surgeries have become safer and more efficient. However, getting the best results still takes a skilled, experienced surgeon. Don’t hesitate to ask the plastic surgeon about qualifications, experience, and previous complication rates. The surgeon should supply before and after photos and have past testimonials available. Patients should also look for a board-certified surgeon, as this certification ensures the surgeon meets the highest possible standards.
Knowledge is power
Breast augmentation has several moving parts. Patients should seek to be as informed as possible before deciding. Ask these and any other questions during an initial consultation. The extra information helps patients choose the right implant, size, and surgical location.