What is breast augmentation?

A breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breast using a breast implant (saline or silicone) for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes.


How should one prepare for breast augmentation surgery?

In some instances, your plastic surgeon may recommend a baseline mammogram before surgery and another mammographic examination some months after surgery. This will help to detect any future changes in your breast tissue. Following breast implant surgery, you will still be able to perform breast self-examination. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with additional preoperative instructions. Breast implant surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. If this is the case, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with you at least the first night following surgery.


How can I find a qualified board certified plastic surgeon?

You will want a doctor who is board certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Be careful. There are many other doctors out there that are board certified in something similar or even claiming to be triple board certified. A call to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or ASPS at 1-888-4-PLASTIC (ie. 1-888-475-2784) can tell you which doctors are legitimate plastic surgeons with outstanding qualifications. You can also visit the ASPS web site at www.plasticsurgery.org. The ASPS is the only one of the 24 boards approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties that certifies physicians in plastic surgery of the face and all areas of the body.


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

A day or two after surgery, you should be up and about. Any dressings will be removed within several days, and you may be instructed to wear a support bra. Your plastic surgeon will probably permit you to shower between three and seven days following surgery. Stitches will be removed in about a week. Some discoloration and swelling will occur initially, but this will disappear quickly. Most residual swelling will resolve within a month.