1. How soon after breast augmentation surgery can I raise my arms up over my head?

The soreness from a breast augmentation usually lasts about 2 weeks. The limitation to raising arms is usually because of this soreness alone.


2. Does having implants mean limits to any activities?

I ask my patients to refrain from heavy exercise (especially upper body) for about 6 weeks after surgery to allow the implants to maintain their correct position.


3. Is there really such a thing as the "postoperative Blues"?

Not something that I have encountered, thankfully.


4. What is a "Breast Compression Clamp" and what is it for?

I am not quite sure what exactly this is. I do have a special bra that I have my patients wear after the surgery. This bra is underwire-less and supports the breast well.


5. After augmentation, will my own breast tissue change size?

The human body responds to the changes we make within it. In other words, action - reaction. Placing implants into the body actually squeezes some of the existing breast tissue, and compresses it. The volume change is generally minimal.


6. After augmentation with Silicone gel implants, how often does the FDA advise an M.R.I. to check for failure?

The FDA has recommended MRI screening for implant rupture 3 yrs after placement of the implants, then every two years following.


7. Is it true that re-operation can be done though the navel?

I am personally not a fan of implants placed through the navel, nor re-operations placed through the navel. The distance between the navel and the breast is quite long, and this can lead to problems with accuracy of placement, bleeding, and increased risks to the operation.

For patients who desire implants placed without scars on the breasts, I perform a trans-axillary augmentation using incisions hidden in the armpits. To me, this gives the advantage of the lack of a scar on the breast, while also allowing me control and accuracy in implant placement.