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.

 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer

What Is Facial Sculpting?

What to Expect From an Endoscopic Facelift?