Breast augmentation is a wonderful way to enhance the appearance of your breasts. Many women report feeling more attractive and self-confident after undergoing this cosmetic procedure. Whether you want to restore the shape of your breasts after having children or wish for a larger size, breast enhancement is a great way to achieve that.
There are multiple combinations to choose from when it comes to breast augmentation surgery. Some women might feel intimidated or confused by the procedure. Knowing the facts and your options beforehand will better prepare you for when you meet with a plastic surgeon.
This guide will discuss the top eight things you need to know about breast augmentation. We’ll help you navigate through the endless information there is on the topic so you can make educated decisions for yourself.
1. There Are Two Main Implant Materials
There are two types of breast implants you can choose from. They are:
- Silicone gel
- Saline
Silicone gel implants are comprised of a silicone shell. The shell is filled with silicone, a plastic gel. Many people say this type of implant feels more like natural breasts.
Saline implants are made from the same type of shell as silicone gel implants. They’re filled with sterile salt water, or saline. These types of implants provide women with a uniform feel, firmness, and shape.
Each type of breast implant has its advantages and disadvantages. What type you choose depends on your personal preference.
2. Recovery Might Be Uncomfortable
The recovery period for breast surgery is about the same as other cosmetic procedures. However, you should keep in mind that recovery from breast augmentation can be challenging. You might experience the following sensations in your breasts after treatment:
- Tightness
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Itchiness
These side effects are normal in the first few days after your surgery. Your comfort levels will rise after that period. You can expect to return to your normal activities and work after a week or so.
There are a few things that might affect how long your recovery period is. They are:
- Size of implant
- Your natural healing process
- Placement of breast implant around your pectoral muscle
- Incision placement
Your breast surgeon will give you comprehensive aftercare and recovery instructions. Follow them closely so you accelerate the healing process.
3. It’s Important to Choose the Best Surgeon
Working with a plastic surgeon who’s experienced with breast augmentation is essential. Some of the qualifications your surgeon should possess include:
- American Board of Plastic Surgeons certified
- Licensed by your state to practice medicine
- Previous experience with breast augmentations
- Surgeries performed at an accredited surgical center or hospital
You should also connect with your plastic surgeon on a personal level. They should make you feel respected and at ease.
4. Be Patient With Yourself
While you can expect the healing process to last a few weeks, it might take several months for your implants to settle. You might be concerned that your breasts don’t look natural during the first couple of months.
For example, your breasts might be higher on your chest than you expected. They could also feel tighter or more solid than you anticipated.
Your implants will drop and soften into the natural spot as your body adjusts after your surgery. Your results will take time, so be patient with your body.
5. Ask Questions During Your Consultations
No matter how much research you’ve done beforehand, you should always come prepared with questions to ask your surgeon. The surgeon and their support staff should easily explain the details, ease your worries, and guide you through the process.
Some of the points you should discuss include:
- How much your surgery will cost
- The incision placement or technique you need
- The size or type of implant that’ll work best
- What your recovery will look like
There are no bad or stupid questions when it comes to breast surgery. Ask any questions that you have, even if you feel like they’re not important. You want to be well-equipped to make decisions for your body.
6. You Might Need Additional Procedures
You should feel 100% satisfied with your breasts after your procedure. While breast augmentation does have a high rate of satisfaction, a follow-up procedure might be necessary. You might know right away that you’re not happy or it’s something you could realize years down the road.
You can get a revision surgery to help with the following:
- Implant removal
- Implant repositioning
- The difference in style or size of the implant
- Improve symmetry of implants
Depending on the type of implant you choose, it might need to get replaced after 10-15 years. Implant replacement helps avoid the chance of them leaking or rupturing. Your surgeon will talk to you about how to monitor your breast implants to prevent that from happening.
7. It Might Take a While to Get Used to Your Breasts
You might be going up a few cup sizes with your breast augmentation surgery. Your implants will physically and aesthetically change your body. A sudden change in size might be challenging to get used to.
It’s normal to feel weird or uncertain about your body for a bit. You’ll need to get used to the feeling of having larger breasts. You’ll also need to do the following:
- Find different kinds of clothes
- Get new bras
- Adjust to heavier breasts during exercising
- Feel comfortable with your new body shape
Don’t feel like you’ll need to feel “normal” right away. Give yourself time to feel confident with your new body.
8. Breastfeeding Is Possible
It’s a common myth that you won’t be able to breastfeed if you’ve had breast implants. Whether or not you can breastfeed depends on various factors, but breast implants are not one of them. Women that have had mastectomies or breast reconstruction might not be able to breastfeed if the milk ducts have been removed.
Find an Experienced Breast Augmentation Surgeon in New York
There are many reasons why you might want breast augmentation surgery. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re looking into this type of procedure. Partnering with a reputable breast augmentation surgeon is key to navigating the process.
We have two locations throughout the New York area; Manhattan in New York City, and Quogue in the Hamptons. Dr. Tracy Pfeifer and our staff are available to guide you through the breast augmentation process. Contact us to schedule an appointment.