What Questions To Ask Before Breast Implant Surgery?
Breast
implant surgery, also known as breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty,
is a cosmetic procedure which aims to improve the shape, size, and symmetry of
the breasts to make you look more attractive.
Breast implant
surgery in Dubai involves the placement of silicone or saline implants to
increase breast volume. These artificial prostheses come in different sizes,
texture, and profiles, and can be placed above or under the chest muscle
according to the needs of the patient.
Before you
go for the implant surgery, it is important that you ask some key questions
that will help you understand the procedure better and adjust your
expectations.
What to ask before undergoing breast
augmentation with implant placement?
1.
Am I a suitable candidate for breast implant
surgery?
You are an
ideal candidate for breast
implant surgery if:
·
You are dissatisfied with the size or shape of your
breasts and desire enhancement
·
You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of
the procedure
·
You are physically healthy and do not have any medical
conditions that may impair healing or increase the risk of surgery
·
You are a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking for a
certain period before and after the surgery since smoking can affect healing
and increase the risk of complications
·
You are an adult with fully developed breasts, as
breast augmentation is typically not recommended for those whose breasts are
still developing
·
You have stable mental and emotional health, and are
able to handle the emotional changes that can occur with the surgery
·
You understand the potential risks and complications
associated with breast implant surgery and are willing to follow post-operative
care instructions
2.
What are the different types of breast implants
available?
Breast
implants can be of following types:
·
Saline implants: These implants are filled with
sterile saline solution (saltwater). They are inserted into the breast pocket
while empty and then filled to the desired size. In case of a leak, the saline
is harmlessly absorbed by the body.
·
Silicone implants: These implants are filled with a
cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue.
Silicone implants are popular due to their realistic texture and appearance.
·
Structured saline implants: These implants contain an
inner structure or chambers filled with saline. This design aims to provide a
more natural feel by controlling the movement of the saline within the implant.
·
Gummy bear implants: Also known as cohesive gel
implants, these implants are filled with a thicker silicone gel that maintains
its shape even if the implant shell is broken. They are named after the gummy
bear candy because of their similar consistency.
3.
What is the procedure for inserting the
implants? Will it be placed above or below the chest muscle?
Breast
augmentation with implants is done through these steps:
·
Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation
with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. During this appointment, the expert
discusses your goals, preferences, and medical history. They also assess your
breast anatomy and help determine the most suitable implant size, type, and
placement for you.
·
Anesthesia: On the day of the surgery, you will be
given general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to ensure your
comfort during the procedure.
·
Incision placement: The Plastic Surgeon next draws
incisions in strategic locations, which can be in the crease underneath the
breast fold (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), in the armpit
(transaxillary), or around the navel (transumbilical). The choice of incision
placement is determined by implant type, size, and personal preference.
·
Implant placement: The Plastic Surgeon will now create
a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or behind the chest
muscle (submuscular). The placement depends on factors such as your existing
breast tissue, body type, and the desired outcome. The chosen implants are
carefully inserted into the pockets.
·
Incision closure: After the implants are in place,
Plastic Surgeon will close the incisions using sutures, surgical tape, or
adhesive skin closures. The incisions are also carefully layered to minimize
scarring.
4.
How long will the surgery take?
Breast
implant surgery is performed in an outpatient setting and it takes around 1-2
hours to finish. The patient is then monitored for some time to make sure they
are doing well. Once anesthesia ear off, patients are allowed to go home with a
trusted caretaker.
5.
What is the recovery process like?
·
Initially you may experience some pain, swelling, and
discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. You might
also have dressings or a surgical bra in place to support the healing process.
·
You are asked to avoid strenuous activities, heavy
lifting, and vigorous exercise for several weeks as recommended by your Plastic
Surgeon. Follow their instructions regarding limitations and restrictions to
promote proper healing.
·
Swelling and bruising are common after breast
augmentation. The extent and duration of these symptoms vary among individuals.
However, applying cold compresses and keeping your upper body elevated can help
minimize swelling which vanishes completely on its own after a certain period.
·
Your Plastic Surgeon will schedule follow-up
appointments to monitor your progress and remove any stitches or dressings.
These appointments are essential to ensure that your breasts are healing
properly and there are no complications.
·
You may be advised to wear a supportive surgical bra
or compression garment during the initial weeks of recovery. This helps
minimize swelling, provide support to the implants, and promote proper healing
of the incisions.
6.
How much downtime should I anticipate, and when
can I resume my normal activities?
You are allowed
to return to work after 2-3 weeks. However, you may still have to wait for 6
weeks before you can start doing strenuous activities such as heavy lifting and
brisk running.
7.
How long do breast implants typically last, and
are there any maintenance or follow-up procedures required?
Breast
implants easily last for more than a decade. After this period, they are at an
increased risk of getting rupture or developing complications. Board Certified
Plastic Surgeons advise their patients to do follow-up examinations of the
breast implants ideally once a year.
Need Help?
If you are interested in seeking
advice or knowing more about breast augmentation in Dubai, feel free to contact
the Al Shunnar patient care team. Our coordinators will readily schedule a
personal consultation session for you with one of our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons.
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