Getting any sort of elective surgery isn’t something to be taken lightly, and breast augmentation is no exception. This popular cosmetic surgery procedure can transform the size, shape, and overall appearance of your breasts, boosting your confidence and self-esteem as well as your cup size. However, before you get started there is plenty you need to think about.
Here are some of the most important things that you need to consider before getting breast implants.
You need to be fit and healthy
As with all other surgical procedures, your surgeon will want to make sure that you are fit, healthy, and at minimal risk of experiencing complications during your procedure. Your surgeon will ask you a series of questions about your medical history and how your health is currently, whether you take any medications, and if you are waiting for any other type of medical investigation or treatment. Vital measurements like your weight and blood pressure will also be taken as part of the process of approving your candidacy. If you smoke or you are overweight, you may be advised that these things will need to be addressed before you can get your breast implant surgery.
You may be limited in how large your new breasts can be
Choosing the right size implants is crucially important. Many people automatically try to go as large as possible without taking into account their body shape and size, as well as their current lifestyle. People with small frames generally can’t have the largest breast implants as they simply don’t fit onto the chest properly. Our cosmetic surgery team will be able to talk you through the main considerations you’ll need to make when choosing your implants.
Your breasts may feel different – to you and others around you
It’s perhaps unsurprising that the majority of people who have breast implants find that they experience differing sensations in their breasts and nipples following breast implant surgery. Temporary changes in nipple sensation during the first few weeks after surgery are usually caused by the stretching of nerves within the breast as they adjust to the implant. This usually eases off as the body heals, and in most cases, the nipples will return to their usual sensitivity. Meanwhile, the way that your breasts feel externally will also change. Silicone implants are considered to feel the most similar to real breast tissue over saline.
Future pregnancy and weight loss could impact the appearance of your breasts
There are many different factors that can influence our appearance. Whether your breasts are real or natural, the aging process along with pregnancy or nursing or weight loss can cause breast tissue to stretch and retract, and this could alter the way that your breasts look. If you want to have children, you’ll be pleased to know that many women can still successfully breastfeed following augmentation surgery. However, this isn’t guaranteed, which is something that you will want to discuss with your surgeon before you go ahead.
It’ll take a few months for you to see the final appearance of your breasts
Breast augmentation causes significant swelling and how your breasts look in the first few days after surgery isn’t going to be your final result. In fact, it can take anywhere from six to twelve months for all swelling to disappear and the final result of your surgery.
You’re likely to need replacement implants in the future
While implants are very safe, they aren’t designed to last forever. The average lifespan of breast implants is around 10 – 12 years, after which time they may need to be removed or replaced. There’s nothing to say that you have to have the size implants to replace them with either. You could adjust your breast size to fit your changing lifestyle and appearance goals.
If you have further questions about what to consider before getting breast implants, or to schedule a consultation, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable cosmetic surgery team at Restivo Plastic Surgery by calling (808) 204-4800.
