How should one prepare for breast augmentation surgery?

Seek out a trained board certified plastic surgeon who has performed many of these surgeries.

How is breast augmentation surgery performed?

Under anesthesia in a surgical facility. The gland is elevated off the chest wall and the implant is slid into place.

What are the possible immediate post-operative effects of breast augmentation surgery?

Pain which is controlled with medication by mouth. Swelling which subsides in a few weeks.

Can implants lift sagging breasts?

NO. It only increases the weight and sag.

How can I find a qualified board certified plastic surgeon?

On the web under American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

What are the possible longer-term, local effects in breast augmentation surgery?

Capsular contracture which is scar formation around the implant may make the breast " feel hard." If the implant is saline filled it may deflate and need replacement.

Are implants safe for a woman with MS (multiple sclerosis)?

No scientific connection found to avoid this surgery.

Can a woman breast-feed after breast augmentation?

Yes. Since the implant is under the breast the gland functions normally.

Is it true that there is usually no loss of sense of touch of the nipples after breast augmentation?

Usually there is no loss of sense of touch of nipples, but this is not true always.

What is breast augmentation?

Increasing the size of the breast using a biocompatible breast implant which may be filled with saline or silicone. This is placed under the gland or under the chest muscle upon which the breast tissue resides.

Who is a good candidate for breast augmentation?

A healthy motivated patient who wants increase in breast size.

What type of anesthetic is used for breast augmentation surgery?

Usually general anesthesia.

What risks are associated with breast augmentation?

The usual surgical risks of bleeding and infection.

What is the recovery time for breast augmentation?

Back to work in 1-2 weeks.

How much does breast augmentation cost?

$2500-$3000 for surgery not counting hospital and anesthesia.

Who should not have breast enlargement?

Non healthy patients or patients with significant breast sag, or patients doing the surgery other than for self.

Are there any drawbacks to having larger breasts?

Normally very large breasts can cause chronic back, neck and shoulder pain.

Do any insurance companies pay for breast augmentation?

No

Will my breast implants feel like natural breasts?

May feel firmer or natural.

Will smoking affect my recovery from breast augmentation?

Smoking may cause more complications and delays in healing.

What is an implant made of?

Either salt water or gel silicone.

Is having silicone in the body safe?

Yes

If silicone does not make people ill, why do the suits continue?

Not enough good information and too many lawyers.

What are the pros and cons of saline fill vs silicone gel fill?

Saline may deflate. Silicone may interfere with mammogram.

Can salt-water filled implants harden like the silicone-filled ones?

It is not the implant , it is the scar forming around the implant.

How long do implants last?

I have patients with implants, 35 years post op with no problems.

What prevents bacteria from getting into implants?

Good sterile conditions done in hospital setting. The implants come sterile.

How do I handle mammograms after breast augmentation?

To an x-ray department with experience.