Breast augmentation with breast implants enhances breast size in women of all ages and stages of life and can be undertaken to restore volume that has been lost after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Like all breast surgery, breast augmentation includes a variety of techniques and options, and plastic surgeon Dr. Shain Cuber will customize the breast augmentation procedure for each individual patient. When discussing the following options, he will recommend the ideal plan to meet every woman’s unique needs and ultimate goals and what to expect during breast augmentation recovery.
What to Expect After Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant Types
Among the many breast implant options are the material, shape, projection and texture of the shell.
- Filler: Available implant fillers include saline (salt water) and silicone. Silicone implants can be filled with a gel, or be “form stable,” which means the silicone retains its shape even if the implant shell is broken. These are commonly referred to as “gummy bear” implants. Saline filled implants are also an option upon request or if Dr. Cuber feels that this is the best option for the patient.
- Shape: Breast implants can be round or have a teardrop shape that mimics the shape of natural breasts. The best option for you depends on the end result in terms of size and shape you wish to achieve, as well as where your breasts require extra fullness. Dr. Cuber will evaluate your breast tissue and anatomy to determine how to create the most optimal breast for each patient.
- Projection: Projection essentially refers to how much the implants protrude from the chest. The ideal projection is generally dictated by the amount of natural breast tissue the patient is starting with as well as their desired outcome.
- Texture: Breast implants can have a smooth or textured outer shell. A smooth implant can feel softer but textured implants can minimize shifting within the breast. There are advantages and disadvantages to both of these options that will be explained at the time of the consultation.
Breast Augmentation Incision Placement
Regardless of how the implants are inserted, the primary goal for all breast surgery is minimal scarring. While there are three incision options, the best approach for your breast augmentation may depend on the type of implant you choose, the degree of enlargement you desire and your body’s anatomy.
- Inframammary: This incision is placed along the fold beneath the breast.
- Periareolar: In some cases, the breast implant can be inserted through an incision around the nipple.
- Transaxillary: Depending on the implants selected, an incision within the armpit can be used.
Breast implant placement
Once the incision is made, Dr. Cuber creates a pocket within the breast either under the pectoral muscle or between the muscle and the existing breast tissue. The ideal placement depends on the type of breast implant, desired degree of enlargement and your body type. Patients with less body fat may benefit from placement beneath the muscle to minimize implant visibility.
Regardless of Dr. Cuber’s recommended approach, breast augmentation is performed on an outpatient basis, and recovery is generally easy. Most patients report feeling tired and sore (similar to after an intense workout) for a day or two after the procedure, but this can vary depending on the techniques used. A patient may feel more soreness and stiffness if the implants are placed below the pectoral muscle, but a majority of the discomfort after breast augmentation dissipates within 48 hours. Bruising and swelling are common immediately after breast surgery, but these side effects generally improve rather quickly.
Patients may be instructed to wear a compression garment for specific period of time but can generally go back to work within a few days to a week. Any external stitches are removed within the first week, during which time it’s important to avoid lifting, pushing, pulling and other strenuous activity. The color and texture of scars begin to improve within one month after surgery and their appearance will continue to fade over the next year. It is important to remember that breast implants are not lifetime devices, and they generally need to be replaced as needed. Regular monitoring in the form of follow-up visits with Dr. Cuber and appropriate breast-cancer screening for your age will help evaluate breast implant integrity and maintain long-term results.
Call (516) 773-7846 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cuber and learn more about breast augmentation and other breast surgery options.