Are you considering breast augmentation surgery and need more information to make an informed decision? Do you have questions about the process, recovery time, cost, and results? Dr. Jack Peterson is an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation and can provide you with the answers you need. In this article, we answer the most common questions about breast augmentation as answered by Dr. Jack Peterson.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the size and shape of the breasts. It is typically performed using silicone or saline-filled implants, although in some cases fat grafting can be used to enhance the size of the breasts. The purpose of breast augmentation surgery is to achieve a more balanced and symmetrical appearance of the breasts, enhance cleavage, and improve the overall shape and proportion of the breasts.
Can Anyone Get Breast Implants?
Not everyone is a candidate for breast implants. Adult women who are in good overall health and wish to improve the size or shape of their breasts are typically good candidates. You should also be within your ideal body weight range, have realistic expectations for the results of the surgery, and be in good physical and mental health. It is important for you to discuss your specific medical history and aesthetic goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Jack Peterson, to help you determine if breast implants are right for you.
What Should I Expect During the Photographic Assessment?
During the photographic assessment, your plastic surgeon will take several photographs of your breasts from different angles. These photographs will be used to help the surgeon determine the shape and size of the implants that will best suit your body frame and aesthetic goals. The photographs will also be used to create a visual representation of what the surgical results may look like. This can be extremely helpful in helping you make an informed decision about the size and shape of your breast implants.
What Types of Implants are Available?
There are three main types of breast implants available, including silicone gel, saline, and fat grafting. Silicone gel implants are the most popular choice because they are the most natural-looking and feeling of all the implant options. These implants consist of a silicone shell filled with a sterile silicone gel. Saline implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution. Fat grafting involves taking fat cells from one area of the body and transferring them to the breasts to enhance their size.
Do I Have to Replace My Breast Implants?
The majority of breast implants will last 10-15 years before needing to be replaced. This means that if you get breast implants when you are in your 20s, you will likely need to have them replaced at least once before you reach menopause. However, not all implants need to be replaced and some people can have their breast implants for many years without any major issues.
What is the Recovery Time for Breast Augmentation?
Most people can return to light activity within a week of breast augmentation surgery as long as they follow the post-operative instructions provided to them by their plastic surgeon. However, strenuous physical activity should be avoided for at least 6 weeks. It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s recovery process will be unique and some people may heal more quickly than others. Also, it is important to have someone present to help take care of you in the days following surgery.
Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Covered by Insurance?
In most cases, breast augmentation surgery is not covered by insurance. However, there are a few rare exceptions in which the surgery may be covered if it is medically necessary, such as in the case of reconstructive surgery following a mastectomy for breast cancer.
What Are the Risks of Breast Augmentation Surgery?
While breast augmentation is generally safe, there are some risks that should be considered. These risks include infection, capsular contracture, implant rupture, or a decrease in the nipple sensation. It is important to discuss these risks and any other concerns you may have with your plastic surgeon before having surgery.
Is Breast Augmentation Right for Me?
If you are considering breast augmentation, it is important to have a thorough consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon, like Dr. Jack Peterson, to get all of your questions answered and determine if breast augmentation is right for you. Be sure to properly research your doctor before making any decisions and make sure to discuss any concerns you may have upfront. With the right information and a caring doctor by your side, you can make an informed decision to have breast augmentation surgery.
