Breast Augmentation: What to Expect

Breast augmentation is cosmetic surgery to increase breast size. The procedure typically involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. It is done on an outpatient basis and rarely requires a hospital stay. While it is commonly performed with the patient under general anesthesia, it can also be done under local anesthesia with the patient awake and the breast area numbed.

What can breast augmentation do for you?

If your breasts are naturally small, breast augmentation is a great way to enhance their size, shape and appearance. The procedure is also effective in correcting uneven or asymmetrical breasts. If you are uncomfortable with one of your breasts being smaller than the other, the surgery can make them even and in turn boost your self-confidence. It is also a good option to help you adjust for a reduction in breast size following pregnancy, weight loss, or breast surgery for other conditions.

What should you expect during the consultation?

The consultation with a plastic surgeon will help you determine whether you really want the procedure. The surgeon will listen to your goals and expectations to make sure you are realistic about what breast augmentation can and cannot help you achieve. The surgeon will also explain what the surgery involves, including the benefits, risks, complications and follow-up care. The surgeon will also discuss your preference for size, shape and feel of your breasts, and guide you on how to prepare for the surgery.

What can you expect during the procedure?

After you are placed under anesthesia, the surgeon will make incisions in the crease under your breast (inframammary), under your arm (axillary), or around your nipple (periareolar). The surgeon then separates the breast tissue from the muscles and connective tissue of the chest to create a pocket either in front or behind the outermost muscle of the chest wall (pectoral muscle).

The breast implant is inserted into this pocket and then centered behind the nipple. While silicone breast implants are usually pre-filled with silicone gel, saline implants are inserted when empty and filled with sterile salt water after they are in place. Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision—usually with sutures (stitches)—before bandaging the surgical site with skin adhesive and surgical tape.

What should you expect after breast augmentation?

Soon after the anesthesia wears off, you can expect pain, soreness, and swelling which may last for a few weeks after surgery. Because your breasts may be sensitive to jarring movements and physical contact, your surgeon will prescribe pain-relieving medication to keep you comfortable, and you will also need to wear a compression garment to provide extra support and positioning of your breasts as they heal.

Should you experience redness and warmth in your breasts, a fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, contact your surgeon as soon as possible. You should also follow your surgeon’s instructions, particularly on returning to regular activities. Avoid strenuous activities—anything that can raise your pulse or blood pressure—for at least two weeks.

Remarkable results

Breast augmentation will change the size and shape of your breasts, improve your body image and boost your self-esteem. At Politis Plastic Surgery, we endeavor to meet each patient’s expectations. You can rest assured that you will achieve your desired breast volume and realize your aesthetic goals.

At the same time, we also understand that weight loss, weight gain, and aging can change the way your breasts look after the procedure. We will keep in touch with you long after the procedure to help you with any issues that may arise. Should you feel dissatisfied with how your breasts look, we are always ready to listen, evaluate and perform corrective surgeries to keep you feeling great about yourself.

Would you like to learn more about the procedure? Call today to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Effie Politis. For more information on breast augmentation, visit the Politis Plastic Surgery website.