Breast Augmentation Surgery: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview
A cosmetic procedure aimed at enhancing the size and shape of the breasts is breast augmentation surgery, also called augmentation mammoplasty. In order to increase breast volume, improve symmetry, and achieve the desired aesthetic appearance, breast implants or fat transfers are inserted. The purpose of breast augmentation is to improve self-confidence, restore lost breast volume due to weight loss or pregnancy, or achieve a more proportionate body shape for women.
Preparation
There are several steps involved in preparing for breast augmentation surgery:
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During your consultation, a board-certified plastic surgeon will evaluate your breast anatomy, discuss implant options, and explain the surgical procedure.
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A thorough medical examination is performed by your surgeon to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. This may include a physical exam, breast measurements, and imaging tests (such as mammograms).
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Based on your desired outcome, body proportions, and the surgeon's advice, you will select the type, size, shape, and placement of implants.
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Prior to your surgery, your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions, such as refraining from smoking, avoiding certain medications that increase bleeding risk, and fasting for a certain period.
Procedure
Typically, breast augmentation surgery involves the following steps:
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In order to ensure your comfort and pain-free experience during surgery, you will be given general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
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To minimize scarring and achieve optimal implant placement, your surgeon will make incisions at predetermined locations, such as under the breast crease (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary).
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A pocket will be created behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or behind the chest muscle (submuscular) and the implants will be carefully inserted.
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After the implants have been placed, the incisions will be closed with sutures or surgical adhesive, and bandages or surgical tape will be applied to protect them.
Recovery
In order to recover from breast augmentation surgery, you must do the following:
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Most patients are discharged home the same day after their surgery after spending some time in the recovery room under observation. Pain medication and cold compresses can help you manage discomfort, swelling, bruising, and tightness in the chest area.
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Several weeks after surgery, you will need to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and overhead reaching. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days or a week.
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You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to assess implant placement and symmetry, and to address any concerns you may have.
Risks
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation is not without risks and potential complications, including:
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Scar tissue may form around implants, causing them to become firm or misshaped.
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Rupture or leakage of implants may occur over time, resulting in changes in breast shape or size.
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A risk of infection is present at the incision sites or around the implants, which may require antibiotics or additional treatment.
Aftercare
Follow your surgeon's instructions for aftercare after breast augmentation surgery, including:
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To manage discomfort and prevent infection, take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed.
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To minimize swelling and support the breasts during the healing process, your surgeon may recommend wearing a supportive bra or compression garment.
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Follow your surgeon's instructions for scar care, including keeping the incision sites clean and dry and applying scar-reducing creams or silicone gel as directed.
It is important for patients to understand the overview, preparation, procedure, recovery, risks, and aftercare associated with breast augmentation surgery so that they can make informed decisions and take appropriate steps to achieve their aesthetic goals.
