Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the United States. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 290,000 of these surgeries were performed in the US in 2013. If you are contemplating breast augmentation, chances are you have a number of questions related to the procedure itself, cost, and recovery time. Here are five of the most common questions about breast augmentation and some helpful answers if you’re considering surgery.
What’s the difference between Silicone and Saline?
Silicone and saline are the two most popular kinds of implants. Silicone implants are filled with a gel that is designed to resemble human breast tissue. These implants are available to patients that are older than 22 years of age. Saline implants contain salt water, and the insertion procedure is slightly different. Silicone implants are pre-filled prior to insertion, while saline implants are filled once inserted. Saline implants are available to patients 18 years and older.
What are the Benefits of Surgery?
There are several benefits of breast augmentation surgery, including improved confidence, a larger array of clothing and swimwear choices, and an enhanced overall appearance. If you are dissatisfied with the look of your breasts, it may be worth considering breast augmentation surgery.
What are Some of the Risks?
Breast augmentation is a relatively safe procedure with minimal risks. Potential risks include soreness and infection, temporary loss of sensation, pain, and the development of internal scar tissue.
What is a Typical Breast Augmentation Procedure Like?
On average, breast augmentations in the US cost approximately $4,000. Health insurance does not typically cover the cost of surgery. Most procedures can be completed in a matter of hours, and patients are under anesthesia during surgery. There are a few different incision options, including periareolar (just below the areola), inframammary (just below the breast), and transaxillary (under the arm). Incision choice varies based on implant size, patient body shape and preference. After incision, implants are inserted and positioned, and tissue is sutured.
How can I Shorten My Recovery Time?
Most patients will have some soreness and swelling in the few weeks following surgery. In order to shorten your recovery time, be sure to follow your surgeon’s post-op recommendations. Typically, patients will be required to wear a special bra for at least a week following their surgery. Oral medications and antibiotic ointments are used to prevent discomfort and minimize the risk of infection. If you have concerns about recovery time after surgery, talk with your plastic surgeon about the process. You can also ask to see testimonials from previous patients to get a better sense of their post-op experiences.
If you are considering a breast augmentation procedure, it’s important to talk with your plastic surgeon ahead of time in order to determine if surgery is right for you. An experienced surgeon can answer any questions you may have and give you the confidence and peace of mind you need for your upcoming procedure. For more information about preparing for breast augmentation surgery, refer to this helpful blog post.