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What You Should Know About Breast Augmentation

Posted August 19, 2014 in Breast Augmentation, by Dr. Fiorillo

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the shape and size of a woman’s bust by inserting breast implants.

What Is the Purpose of Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation adds volume to a woman’s bust and achieves the desired breast shape and size. In some cases, breast augmentation can be used in a reconstructive manner after a full or partial mastectomy. Most women decide to undergo breast augmentation to address current issues and achieve fuller, more aesthetically pleasing breasts.

Deciding to Get Breast Augmentation?

Patients older than 18 for saline implants, or older than 22 for silicone implants, who are in excellent overall health, are close to or at their ideal weight, have a full understanding of the procedure, and have realistic expectations for their results can benefit from this procedure.

What Are My Options?

Once you decide on your desired breast size and shape, you can also determine which style of implant you would like to have. Saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants all have unique traits and pros and cons associated with each of them. Implants can be round or teardrop-shaped and can be either smooth or textured. Incisions can be periareolar (around the edge of the areola), inframammary (along the breast crease), or transaxillary (in the underarm). Placement of the implants can be submuscular (under the chest muscle) or subglandular (under the breast tissue but above the chest muscle). The details of your surgery will be discussed before the procedure to ensure your concerns, preferences, and cosmetic goals are communicated.

How Is the Procedure Conducted?

Breast augmentation begins with anesthesia to ensure a comfortable and safe surgery., This can be general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, depending on your preferences and your surgeon’s recommendation. Small or medium-sized incisions are created on the specified areas of the breasts, and then the implants are inserted. Saline implants are expanded after insertion into the breast pocket by pumping saline solution into them. Gummy bear implants are already semi-solid, so they already have their shape when they are inserted. The openings are then closed using sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape.

Getting Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally Prepared

After your surgery date is scheduled, it is important to prepare for your procedure. Surgery typically takes between one and three hours, depending on the techniques being used. Prescription medications can be filled prior to your surgery to ensure you have everything ready for your recovery. Plan to have childcare and other daily responsibilities covered for the first few days while you rest and recover. It is essential that you maintain realistic expectations and that surgery is performed for yourself, not for anyone else.

What Can I Expect After My Surgery?

Most patients feel fatigued for the first few days of their recuperation, and find it difficult to lift their arms directly following their surgery. Your skin may feel tight and sensitive. As the skin adjusts to the implants, itching and a warm sensation may be present. You can also expect to experience soreness, redness, discoloration, bruising, tightness, and swelling in the chest area. Compression bandages or a post-operative bra can help support your new breasts and promote healing. It is essential to stay hydrated, relax, and get plenty of sleep during your recovery to ensure optimal comfort and healing. If you begin to develop a fever, are taking too long to recover, or your symptoms become considerably painful or worsen, please see your doctor immediately.

When Will I See My Final Results?

Your breasts will appear different immediately, but it will take time for swelling to reduce. You should refrain from strenuous exercises or activities for at least a few weeks after your surgery. All symptoms should subside within a month as your breasts heal and settle correctly. Breast augmentation can significantly improve self-image and satisfaction with your body.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fiorillo today by calling (845) 842-1258 or by filling out our online contact form.

Stock images of models are used throughout this website and should not be interpreted as actual patients of our practice. Individual results may vary.

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