Without a doubt, the breast implants of today have come a long way from their earlier versions in the ’80s and ’90s. Today’s augmentations can leave you with natural-looking and feeling breasts that have few to no complications.
Regardless of the high quality of implant materials, and the experienced surgical team at your side, it is always necessary to do your research and ensure you have all your questions answered before booking in for your procedure. Here are the eight most common questions that our clients in Kelowna want to know before deciding whether, or not, to have breast augmentation surgery.
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Considering Breast Augmentation Surgery: 8 Questions You Must Have Answered
Can I Breastfeed if I Have Implants?
This is one of the most common concerns for younger women who are considering breast augmentation surgery. If you decide to get implants, and later choose to breastfeed, you will absolutely still be able to do so. Breastfeeding can be a difficult feat, even for those without augmented breasts, and many women with and without implants get assistance from nurses and lactation consultants to help them along in their journey. That being said, it is extremely rare to have any issues breastfeeding due to having breast implants.
Will My Breasts Look Fake After Getting Implants?
Surgical techniques have changed and evolved greatly over the years. Now it is almost impossible to tell who has natural breasts and who has had breast enhancement. When getting breast augmentation surgery the specific techniques, implant used, and size of the implant will be tailored specifically to you by your plastic surgeon. Factors that your doctor will consider are: body size, ideal placement, and measurements to ensure a great fit and natural look.
Will My Breasts Feel Fake After Getting Breast Implants?
The type of materials that are used now to manufacture silicone and saline implants feel extremely similar to real breast tissue. Another way to ensure your breast augmentation leaves you with the look and feel you want is by having your plastic surgeon place them beneath the chest muscle. And last, but certainly not least, is to ensure that your breasts do not build up scar tissue after surgery. These are all details that your doctor will go over with you before and after surgery.
Will I Lose Sensation in My Breasts After Breast Augmentation?
It is true that sometimes you can temporarily lose sensation in the nipple(s) after breast surgery. But, as the nerve endings heal and the body begins to adjust to the new breasts, many people find that nipple sensation returns over time. Losing sensation permanently is very rare.
What Type of Implant is Better: Saline or Silicone?
Neither type of implant is considered ‘better’ or ‘worse’ than the other. People tend to choose silicone implants because they often feel softer and more supple; similar to real breast tissue. Saline implants feel much firmer and are the go-to choice for women wanting a large breast enhancement. Having either type of implant rupture in the body is pretty rare. An experienced plastic surgeon can help you weigh out the pros and cons of each, and decide which is the best option for you.
How Often Will I Have to Replace My Implants?
Although there are many common misconceptions about the life cycle of an implant, it is fairly safe to assume that they will last anywhere from 10-20 years. For the most part an implant only needs to be swapped out if there is a problem.
What Will My Breasts Look Like Right After Surgery?
It is safe to say that your body will need some time to heal and relax after surgery, so know that they will not look exactly as they should right after your operation. During surgery, your chest muscles will tighten which causes the new implants to typically sit much higher in the chest than usual and the surrounding tissue will most likely be swollen. Give your body a good eight weeks to heal and have the new implants ‘settle in’. Once the swelling completely subsides your breasts will relax into a more natural position.
How Do I Choose a Surgeon for Breast Augmentation?
It takes an experienced cosmetic surgeon, with years of training, to help get the look you desire from your breast augmentation surgery. The goal for most patients is natural, long lasting results. You can achieve these desired results by considering your plastic surgeon’s qualifications. It is important to know:
Is the doctor part of the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons?
Does your doctor have any complaints filed against them? You can check with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia to answer this important question and to ensure your plastic surgeon is certified.
Does the anesthesiologist have proper certifications?
Inquire about your surgeon’s experience and ask about risk factors and possible complications.
Google your surgeon and look into their reviews.
Dr. Brian Peterson MD is Kelowna’s renowned plastic and aesthetic surgeon. Operating on patients from all over the world in the beautiful Okanagan Health Surgical Centre, you know that you are in excellent hands for your breast augmentation surgery with the team at Okanagan Health Surgical Centre.
FAQs
Q: Can I work after getting breast implants?
A: Although your breast augmentation surgery is a short outpatient procedure, it is still important to have a few days of rest after being released from the surgical centre. Most people find they are able to resume work around 7-10 days later and can begin light physical activity at approximately two weeks post-op. If your work involves physical activity, such as lifting or exercise, you may have to wait longer to return to full duties. Let your doctor know your job includes physical activity and ask for their guidance on when to return to full duties.
Q: How can I sleep without hurting myself after getting implants?
A: Directly after surgery you will need to sleep only on your back for the first little while to limit swelling, accidentally bumping the new implants and to avoid pulling on your stitches. Using a good number of pillows to support your back and sides will help ensure that you do not roll over. Some people use 1-2 full length body pillows, or pregnancy pillows, to place on either side of their body while sleeping.
Q: What are the risks associated with getting breast augmentation?
A: Like any type of surgical procedure there are potential risks that can happen:
- Postoperative infection
- Implant leakage
- Implant rupture
- Loss of nipple sensation
- Capsular contracture which causes the breast to harden and possibly change shape
Choosing a reputable and experienced plastic surgeon will minimize the risk associated with getting your breasts enhanced. Most women get breast implants with few to no complications.
