Breast Augmentation 101
Guest Post by Dr. Ali Sajjadian
The decision to undergo a breast augmentation is a very personal and exciting. Acquiring all the pertinent information about breast augmentations before your consultation will prepare you to explain exactly what your expectations are. The single most important responsibility you will have regarding your breast augmentation procedure will be explicitly communicating the precise desired aesthetics of your new breast to your plastic surgeon. This communication cannot be stressed enough; what many people do not understand is the fact that although you and your plastic surgeon will significantly narrow down your breast implant choices, the final choice will not be made until the patient is on the table, and the surgeon can try several options in the chest. Bringing pictures or videos to your consultation of breast you would like yours to resemble is a great idea!
Here are some more helpful breast augmentation tips/ questions/ points of discussion for your consultation:
- Check your surgeon’s qualifications!
– Be sure that you are consulting with a board certified PLASTIC SURGEON who is a member of the American Society for Plastic Surgery. These regulating organizations help to promote only the most skilled and qualified plastic surgeons that have demonstrated a mastery of their craft.
– A growing demand for plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures has unfortunately produced a slew of underqualified COSMETIC SURGEONS. It is important to understand the difference between the two. A plastic surgeon has completed their residency in plastic surgery and has extensive special training for their specialty. Cosmetic surgeons usually have no special training to perform plastic surgery, and have completed their residency in anything from dermatology to dentistry. In some states it is as easy as a weekend trip to Vegas to obtain a certificate for practicing cosmetic surgery.
- Have an idea of whether you would like an anatomical implant (tear drop) or a round implant. If you are unsure ask your plastic surgeon to show you both implant shapes as well as pictures.
- Know the difference between silicone and saline. New “gummy bear” (silicone) implants are becoming so popular because of their ultra-cohesive nature making them safer and more predictable. Saline implants (composed of salt water) are usually a better option for women with little of their own breast tissue.
– Regardless of the kind of breast implant you and your plastic surgeon choose to go with, the procedure will be relatively the same. It should take about an hour and a half, and can be done both as an outpatient procedure, or you could stay overnight. The incision can be made under your breast crease, in the armpit, or in the nipple.
- Know whether or not you will want to undergo your breast augmentation simultaneously with a breast lift. Your plastic surgeon may recommend a breast lift if your breasts are saggy and the areola point downward.
- Understand the healing process. Your plastic surgeon will advise you as to what an appropriately amount of time off will be. Expect swelling, bruising, and most likely a little discomfort. If you work out regularly ask your plastic surgeon when you can get back at it; it is usually recommended that patients start “ramping up” to their routine after a couple of weeks.
- Be prepared to be completely transparent. It is crucial that you share all medical history with your surgeon. Let your plastic surgeon know if you plan on having more children after your breast augmentation so that they can inform you of your options.
As long as you have one of California’s elite plastic surgeons on your team you will have nothing to worry about. Your surgeon will explain in detail most everything this blog has gone over and how it applies specifically to you and your anatomy. Remember, this experience is fun, so have fun! If you would like a second opinion please feel free to come down to my Newport Beach plastic surgery office for a consultation!
