Common Questions - Breast Augmentation and Enlargement

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves insertion of breast implants to improve the appearance of the breast in terms of shape, size and tightness. Most people turn to breast augmentation to resolve sagging of the breasts that comes with age or pregnancy. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about breast augmentation surgery.

What are breast implants?

Breast implants are inserted during breast enlargement surgery to improve the size and shape of the breasts. There are two types of breast implant fillers, the silicone and the saline. Silicone implants are elastic gel-based, while saline implants are sterile salt water-based. They come in different sizes, shapes, surface, and volume to fit the desired outcome of the patient.

I want to have a breast augmentation. What should I do first?

Individuals interested in breast augmentation will first have to meet with a surgeon for an initial consultation. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will perform a full evaluation of the breast to be able to discuss with the patient which type of implants will be used and where it will be inserted. Photographs are also likely to be taken for medical records purposes. There will also be a medical evaluation to check for risks and complications. Surgeons will also discuss the full cost of the procedure during the initial consultation.

How should I prepare for this procedure?

Patients need to follow the instructions given to them by their surgeons in preparation for the procedure. Smoking and drinking should be stopped two weeks to one month prior to the surgery. There should also be no intake of food and drinks after midnight before the surgery. Furthermore, patients may have to add, eliminate, or adjust the intake of certain medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements as per doctor’s orders. Drugs such as aspirin or NSAIDs are also prohibited to avoid the risk of bleeding.

How long is the procedure for breast augmentation? Will I feel discomfort after?

Breast augmentation procedures may last for one to three hours, depending on the size of incision and other circumstances. There may be a bit of discomfort from the surgery as the breast may feel swollen and sore. Patients may feel some pain, but it may be lessened by taking prescribed pain medications.

How long is the recovery period?

Patients are given post operative care instructions in order to help with the recovery process. There should be no heavy lifting, sudden and forced movements, or straining within a few weeks after the surgery. Surgeons may also recommend the use of the surgical or athletic bras. Typically, patients are able to resume work after one to two weeks.

What are the risks?

Some of the risks in breast augmentation are scarring, interference with breast feeding, rupture of implants, leaking, blood clots, numbness of the breast or nipples, development of infections, bleeding, wrinkled skin, pain, cardiac, and pulmonary complications, accumulation of fluids and the possibility of a return for corrective surgery.

For more information about breast enhancement surgery as well as facelift, liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), BOTOX® injections, and more, be sure to visit our Paramus, New Jersey cosmetic surgery office.