FAQ

Breast Augmentation

1. What is the procedure like?
2. Who are good candidates for breast augmentation?
3. What is the typical recovery time?
4. What are the risks associated with the procedure?
5. How much does breast augmentation cost?

Breast augmentation is usually an outpatient procedure, performed with the use of general anesthesia. For the procedure, the surgeon will increase the size of the breasts by inserting a saline or silicone implant under the breast tissue or the chest muscle. Incisions may be made underneath the breast, in the nipple area, in the crease between the chest and breast, or in the belly button.

Women who are physically and emotionally healthy, have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery, and understand the risks and benefits of the procedure are ideal candidates for breast augmentation.

Women may wish to increase the size of their breasts for a number of reasons, including:

• feelings that their breast size is too small or disproportionate to their body
• breasts have become uneven and symmetry is desired
• significant weight loss may have also shrunk breasts
• breast size and shape may have changed after pregnancy

Recovery from breast augmentation surgery may take two or three weeks. Bandages may be removed several days after surgery, and showers are usually permitted within the first week.  Arm movement will likely be limited, and heavy lifting as well as physical contact with breasts should be avoided for up to three weeks. While bruising and discoloration will likely disappear quickly, the swelling may take a month to subside.

Virtually all surgery includes some risks, including reactions to anesthesia, blood clots and infection. Additional possible complications from breast augmentation include changes in breast/nipple sensation and capsular contracture.

One of the most common risks linked to breast augmentation, capsular contracture, occurs when the scar around the implant hardens or becomes tight. The soft implant may then feel hard, and could even tear or rupture, causing a leakage in the breast. The majority of the side effects associated with the procedure, such as swelling, bruising, scars and hardness, will disappear over time.

The cost of the procedure depends on many variables, so it is not possible to give a price without a personal consultation. Associated costs may include the price of the procedure, operating room costs and anesthesia fees. Please contact us for a personal consultation.