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

For the first 24 to 48 hrs raising the arms up to 90 degree is allowed. After that you can have full ( raising arms over your head) but with a gentle range of motion.


2. Does having implants mean limits to any activities?

Not in general. Caution is advised when taking part in sports where forward falling or chest trauma is a possibility ( water or snow skiing for example).


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

Although most people cope well with the emotions arising from having an operation, sometimes they can become depressed. Multiple factors like regret, financial burden, lack of support from partners, etc., can trigger or aggravate this situation. Persistent depression needs to be treated. If you feel sad or depressed for longer than two weeks, tell your doctor.


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

This is a hinged plastic clamp, rubber foam coated, that some surgeons or patients use to apply �compression� to the operated breasts when capsular contracture (hardening of the breast) has developed. It is not used frequently.


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

The actual breast tissue amount does not change. Depending on each individual patient and what their breast tissue was before the surgery, the tissues will tend to spread and become thinner over the implant, especially if the patient receives a large implant. Weight gain or loss after the surgery will have an effect over the breast just as before the surgery.


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

The current FDA recommendations are to have an MRI at 3, 5 ,7 years and so on. This is very controversial at this time as rarely an implant might rupture within the first five years and less expensive monitoring tests like an ultrasound might be adequate enough for the low risk involved.


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

Only very few surgeons perform breast augmentation through the navel as a primary approach. The majority of US plastic surgeons feel this is a higher risk approach and provides no significant benefit. Re- operation through the navel is not indicated if there has been a serious problem with the initial surgery.