If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, you should educate yourself on the procedure and what to expect. Most patients don’t realize that there are multiple approaches to breast augmentation. Before your initial consultation, it can help to learn a little bit more about the procedure. This will inform your discussions with your doctor and ensure you are making the best medical decisions possible.
Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery?
Before choosing to undergo breast augmentation surgery, you should discuss your goals and your current health condition with your doctor. There are several variables that will determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If any of the following applies to you, you may be a good candidate.
- You are physically healthy.
- You are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Your breasts are finished developing naturally.
- You are unsatisfied with your breasts.
- You believe they are too small.
- Your breasts lost volume or changed their shape over time.
- Your breasts are asymmetrical.
If any of these above conditions apply to you, speak to your primary physician about breast augmentation. He or she will likely be able to recommend a trusted plastic surgeon in your area. Once you find a plastic surgeon that you trust, he or she will discuss these variables again with you at your initial consultation. You will also discuss your goals for the procedure and the steps he or she will use to achieve your goals.
Procedure steps: different incision types and implant placement
Depending on your plastic surgeon’s training, as well as your ultimate goals for the procedure, there are different approaches to breast augmentation surgery. While the preparation and recovery are all the same, no matter which approach is taken, two things differ. First, the placement of the incision can vary. Secondly, the placement of the implants themselves can vary.
The typical steps for breast augmentation surgery are the following.
Step #1: Anesthesia
Prior to your procedure, your health care team will show you to the prep room. You will dress in a gown. A doctor will then administer anesthesia that will put you to sleep. This can be administered intravenously or by general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend which type is best for your unique condition. This ensures your comfort throughout the entire procedure.
Step #2: Making the Incisions
Your plastic surgeon then makes the necessary incision. Typically, surgeons place the incisions in the least visible area possible. He or she will discuss the placement of the incision with you prior to the procedure. There are three different incision types: periareolar, inframammary, and transaxillary.
- Periareolar: This is a small u-shaped incision that follows the line of the nipple.
- Inframammary: This is a small u-shaped incision that follows the shape of the breast at its base against your rib cage.
- Transaxillary: This is a small straight incision close to your armpit.
Your surgeon will determine the type of incision you will receive. He or she will base the decision on the type of breast implant, degree of enlargement desired, and your particular anatomy.
Step #3: Placing the Implants
The plastic surgeon will then insert the implants. There are two types of implants: saline and silicone. Along with your doctor, you will determine which type of implant you want to have prior to the procedure.
Your surgeon can place the implant in one of two possible positions.
- Submuscular placement. The surgeon places it under the pectoral muscle.
- Submammary or sub-glandular placement. The surgeon places it directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle.
Your plastic surgeon will choose the method for inserting and positioning breast implants. It will depend on the type of implant, degree of enlargement desired, and your body type.
Step #4: Closing the Incisions
After the surgeon places your implants, he or she will close the incisions. He or she may use sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape to close the incisions.
Recovery breakdown: what should I expect from recovery?
Immediately following the procedure
Your breasts will be wrapped in gauze dressings and an elastic bandage or support bra will minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal. You will be taken into a recovery area for close monitoring. You may be permitted to go home when you are stable for discharge, typically after an hour or so.
Before leaving, you will be given specific postoperative instructions for your breast implant recovery and a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon. You may also receive medications or a prescription, but many plastic surgeons prescribe postoperative medications in advance. Your prescribed medications may include pain pills and an antibiotic to prevent infection.
1-4 weeks following the procedure
Wear your support garment at all times as instructed by your plastic surgeon. Some surgeons may ask patients to clean the incision sites and apply ointment. Others will ask their patients to keep tape or a bandage on. Instructions vary, so it’s important to follow all your plastic surgeon’s directions carefully.
Because it is possible to bleed into the pockets around the breast implants for the first several days, take it easy until you have permission to increase your activity level. Acute pain typically subsides after one week. However, you may experience soreness and swelling for a few weeks. Resume normal activity according to your plastic surgeon’s directions. Avoid exercise and other strenuous activity according to your surgeon’s instructions.
Dr. Anthony Berlet can help you achieve your body goals
Dr. Anthony Berlet believes that plastic surgery patients should feel as comfortable as possible before undergoing any procedure. For over 20 years, he helped patients at his northern New Jersey and lay the foundation of his New York Office in Manhattan where he now see patients and cosmetic clients from NY. City. Breast implant surgery can help women improve their self-esteem and strengthen their self of sense. Along with his team of caring medical professionals, Dr. Berlet makes sure patients see the best outcomes possible from their procedures. To learn more about breast implant surgery or if you have any questions, please reach out to us today!
