Breast augmentations, also known as breast implants, are a procedure to increase the size or firmness of breast tissue. Breast augmentation can give you increased fullness and projection in your breasts, otherwise known as “perky” breasts. This procedure can also increase symmetry.
There are two main types of breast implants:
- Saline implants – these are filled with sterile salt water
- Silicone implants – these are made of silicone gel and look and feel more like natural breasts
Occasionally a fat transfer is also used, depending on your desired results. All of these methods come with their advantages and disadvantages. Your cosmetic surgeon will make each option clear to you before you decide.
Patients tend to report high satisfaction levels with their implants with up to 98% of women saying that they met or exceeded their expectations. As with any other procedure, these results will vary from person to person.
Recovering From A Breast Augmentation
The recovery period for breast augmentations is relatively short. You will experience moderate swelling and discomfort for your first 24 hours. You will be outfitted with a special support bra to minimize this swelling. It’s required that you restrict your physical activity for around a week after surgery to avoid complications. You should be able to resume normal activity within 5 to 7 days, depending on how well you follow post-operative care instructions as well as your natural recovery rate.
You can expect to start seeing initial results at around 4 to 6 weeks. You will also be able to return to your normal bras and resume exercising at this time. Scarring from this procedure is minimal and is easily covered up with clothing. In order to avoid stretch marks developing from your new breasts, you should moisturize the area, but only after your doctor gives you the go ahead.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Breast Augmentation?
For saline breast implants, you must be at least 18 years of age. For silicone implants, you must be at least 22. These are FDA standards that can’t be bypassed no matter how much you desire implants or how healthy you are. Other factors that make you a good candidate include:
- Good overall health
- Not currently smoking, drinking, or taking certain medications
- No history of serious illness or infection
If you currently have an active infection, are dealing with cancer, or are pregnant or breastfeeding then breast augmentation may not be right for you. For a more detailed answer get in touch with a cosmetic surgeon. They will be able to tell you whether you qualify for this procedure based on your medical history.
Are you looking for an experienced cosmetic surgeon to perform your breast augmentation surgery? Dr. DeMercurio has over 9 years of experience in the field and is held in very high regard by his current and former clients. Don’t let this unhappiness with your breasts dictate your life. Please, contact us at The Florida Center for Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery today.
