WHAT SHOULD I PAY ATTENTION TO IF I AM CONSIDERING BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Are you considering breast augmentation to enhance or restore the size or shape of your breasts? It's important to approach this decision thoughtfully and consider several key factors to ensure you make an informed choice. Here are some important aspects to pay attention to:
1. CONSULTATION WITH A BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
The first step in your breast augmentation journey should be a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. During this consultation, you will discuss your goals, expectations, and concerns. Your surgeon will evaluate your health, breast tissue, and skin to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
2. HEALTH ASSESSMENT
It's crucial to be in good overall health before undergoing breast augmentation. Your surgeon may ask about your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle factors. Being honest and transparent during this assessment will help ensure your safety and the success of the procedure.
3. PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
During a physical examination for breast augmentation, the surgeon will assess the size, shape, symmetry, and any contour concerns of your breasts, as well as the quality of the skin and breast tissue. They will also evaluate the chest wall anatomy, nipple position, and overall breast health to determine the most suitable augmentation approach. The surgeon will also perform a breast and axilla examination to screen for breast cancer.
4. INVESTIGATION
Breast imaging, including ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, is necessary before breast augmentation to assess breast health, detect any underlying abnormalities, and determine the suitability for surgery. These tests can identify cysts, tumors, or other issues that may affect the surgical plan or require treatment before augmentation.
5. REVIEWING OPTIONS
The surgeon will make specific recommendations based on your individual conditions. He or she will go through the procedure, risks, post-op care, and expected outcomes with you, as well as evaluate the pros and cons of different options for you.
6. REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
While breast augmentation can enhance the size and shape of your breasts, it's important to have realistic expectations. Your surgeon will discuss the potential outcomes of the procedure based on your anatomy and desired results. Understanding these expectations will help you make an informed decision.
7. UNDERSTANDING RISKS
Although breast augmentations are generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, they carry certain risks. Some of these risks include infection, bleeding, changes in nipple sensation, implant rupture, BIA-ALCL, and asymmetry. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you and help you understand how they can be minimized.
8. RECOVERY PROCESS
The recovery process after breast augmentation can vary from person to person but generally involves some degree of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions to help you manage these symptoms and optimize your recovery. It's important to follow these instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Generally speaking, you are mentally at full capacity the day after surgery though the soreness, bruises, and swelling can last up to 3 weeks. Daily non-strenuous activities can be resumed shortly after surgery but exercise will usually need to wait until your surgeon clears you for it, typically around 3 to 6 weeks.
9. POST-OPERATIVE CARE
Apart from resting and avoiding exercise, your surgeon will give you specific post-operative instructions depending on the procedure you receive. For instance, post-surgical garments are required for implant breast augmentation patients. Pressure garments are also used if liposuction is involved. Following these instructions are of utmost importance to ensure optimal outcomes.
10. COST CONSIDERATIONS
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's experience, type of procedure chosen, duration of hospital stay etc. It's important to discuss the cost with your surgeon and understand what is included in the fee. Price transparency helps you know the cost before receiving the treatment and plan ahead of it.
CONCLUSION
Breast augmentation is a personal decision that should be made after careful consideration of all the factors involved. By consulting with a qualified surgeon, understanding the risks and benefits, and having realistic expectations, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and desires.