Breast augmentation surgery, also known as breast enlargement surgery or a ‘boob job’, is a procedure that is designed to increase the volume and overall size of the breasts. It is a popular choice among patients who are unhappy with their natural breast size and would like to make them larger. Secondary or subsequent breast augmentations can also be performed if a patient chooses to gradually increase the size of their breasts.

 

Although breast augmentation can be done using your own body fat, a procedure called fat transfer, enlargement using artificial implants is still the preferred option for most people.

 

What to Expect from a Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation using either saline or silicone implants is performed in the same way. Both are carried out under general anesthetic, meaning that you will be asleep for the duration of your surgery.

 

An incision is made into the breast tissue which is used to insert the implant. The incision needed for silicone implants may be slightly larger than that for saline. That’s because saline implants are inserted empty and then filled with saline solution once they are in place, whereas silicone implants are a solid mass and inserted whole.

 

Implants may be inserted either under your breast tissue or your chest muscles depending on what your surgeon feels is most appropriate to help you achieve the results that you are looking for.

 

The entire surgery is speedy, usually taking less than 90 minutes. Afterward, your breasts will be dressed in bandages to keep them clean and in place, and you’ll be taken to a separate room to come around from the general anesthetic. In some instances, patients may have a small drain inserted into the breasts to drain away any excess fluid that may accumulate.

 

Recovering After a Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation may be a straightforward procedure, but it is still a significant surgery, and patients can expect to need a number of weeks to heal and recover. Your surgeon will advise that you take at least two weeks off of work and that you don’t get behind the wheel for at least 7 days. You’ll also need to avoid strenuous activity and lifting for around 3 to 4 weeks, as doing so could damage your wounds and affect the outcome of your procedure.

 

It’s essential that you follow all of the aftercare advice provided by your surgeon. This will include information relating to:

 

• Taking pain medications as directed
   

• Taking any antibiotics you are prescribed and ensuring that you finish the course
   

• Wearing your sports- or post-surgery bra 24 hours a day for up to 3 months following your procedure
   

• Getting plenty of rest
   

• When you can exercise, swim, and go back to work
   

• How to care for your wounds and how to minimize scarring
  
   

If you would like more information about what to expect during a breast augmentation procedure, or if you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss whether augmentation is right for you, call LoTempio Plastic Surgery for Women at our office in New York, New York at 347-434-8600.