What is a Breast Augmentation?
The cosmetic surgery industry has witnessed numerous advancements in recent years. And there is one treatment that continues to enjoy immense popularity among women: breast augmentation.
The Procedure
The procedure of breast augmentation is also often called a “boob job” when used casually by patients. It requires the surgeon to use either fat transfer or breast implants to enhance breast size. Breast augmentation is also helpful in restoring the volume of breasts, typically lose after pregnancy or weight loss. The result is a more well-shaped, rounded breasts and uniformity in breast size.
Dr. Feldmar recommends breast augmentation to patients in the following cases:
- If they want a more attractive, well-proportionate physique
- When weight loss, aging or pregnancy has impacted the shape and size of their breasts
- They want better fitting of clothes
- For restoring symmetry in case one breast is smaller in comparison to the other
Realistic Expectations from Breast Augmentation Procedure
Several patients expect quite unrealistic results from their breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Feldmar explains that the procedure is not aimed at correcting breasts that are severely drooping. Such patients may need to consider a breast lift procedure alongside breast augmentation in order to see lifted and fuller breasts. The good news is that in most cases, both procedures, i.e. breast lift and breast augmentation can be done simultaneously. Dr. Feldmar can help you make a decision as to whether you require separate operations or not.
The actual results of breast augmentation surgery include the following:
- Better balance of hip and breast contours
- Increased projection and fullness of breasts
- A boost in self-confidence due to improved appearance
Type of Implants
Before the day of your scheduled breast augmentation procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will call you in for a general examination and also discuss the type of implants that would be most suitable for your breast enhancement surgery.
There are basically two categories of breast implants-silicone gel implants and saline implants.
Silicone gel breast implants refer to silicone shells carrying a unique plastic gel or silicone. Patients inform that the silicone gel closely mimics the texture of the natural tissue in your breasts. In case of implant leakage, the gel might continue to remain inside the shell. It could also move out and enter the implant pocket. However, even if a silicone gel breast implant leaks, it will not end up collapsing.
A saline breast implant is a silicone shell carrying sterile saline solution or salt water. While some saline implants come pre-filled, others may be filled while the breast augmentation procedure is being executed.
In case there is leakage in a saline breast implant, it will likely collapse. The saline solution would get absorbed and ultimately expelled from the body through its natural route. Saline implants are known for providing greater firmness and uniformity to the breasts. They have been approved by the FDA and can be used for women who are 18 years of age or older.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Most patients are relieved to know that the breast augmentation procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, typically under the effect of general anesthesia. This means that you could move around within hours after the surgery.
It is common to feel some soreness in the first two weeks of the surgery, and you are advised to avoid any strenuous physical activity in that period. Dr. Feldmar may also suggest wearing a surgical support bra for a limited time period post breast augmentation. This will help fasten recovery. You might also receive a prescription or medications after the surgery. However, most cosmetic surgeons usually prescribe any postoperative medications well in advance. The prescribed medications typically include an antibiotic (for preventing infection) and pain killers. It is important to follow the instructions given by the cosmetic surgeon in order to ensure optimal healing.
As per the FDA regulation, a woman needs to reach a minimum age of 18 years before undergoing a breast augmentation procedure using saline breast implants. For silicone-gel implants, the minimum age is 22 years.
During the initial medical assessment with your doctor, it is crucial to discuss your expectations and get their feedback on the same. You might need to halt the consumption of certain medicines a couple of days/weeks prior to your surgery.
