When you go for a consultation, you go there armed with questions. It is by educating yourself with the finer details of the procedure that you are able to make a well-informed decision. This helps to answer the question, “is breast augmentation really for me?”
So, we will get you a head start with these 10 common questions, because it is only wise that you don’t go to your surgeon totally clueless about the surgery.
Will breast implants last forever?
No, breast implants do not last forever. While breast implants have the possibility of lasting a lifetime, manufacturers do not consider these as lifetime devices because there is still a possibility that the outer shell will fail anytime.
It is a common misconception that implants will only last a decade, but this is not true. Surgeons would advise patients that, if there is no problem with your implants then there’s nothing that needs to be done with them – as long as you check them regularly.
Are breast implants safe?
Yes, breast implants are among the most studied medical device in history. There have been several unfortunate events that have tarnished its reputation but today’s devices have been a product of years of clinical trials and studies.
Which is better – a silicone or saline implant?
Each type of implant has its pros and cons. Saline is less expensive and it is specifically used on women who are under 22. Silicone gel, on the other hand, feels more natural and ideal for women who are thin. There is no cut-and-dried rule on which is better for you, because this decision largely depends on your desired outcome with the guidance of your surgeon since both are viable options.
Will breast implants improve my sex life?
There is no consensus about this matter, although some experts speculate that breast implants can boost a woman’s confidence and this can have some effects in the bedroom. There is, however, one study that showed that women who have them experienced a significant boost in their arousal and sexual satisfaction. It was also noted that stretch marks in women who have gotten breast implants did not see any improvement in their sex lives.
Can breast implants cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is extremely common after a breast augmentation. The implants themselves can add a certain weight. On one hand, you also need to factor in post-operative swelling and fluid retention, which will eventually go down.
Weight gain can also be expected after your surgery because you need to be less active than normal as you recuperate. With limited movement, you are burning less calories. Therefore, it is very common to put in some weight during the early stages of recovery. Constipation and bloating is also expected during this time as this is typically caused by decreased mobility and pain killers used during and after surgery. So, load up on fluids and fibre to keep things moving along smoothly!
Does the skin stretch that goes along with breast surgery uncomfortable?
Once breast implants are put in place, it does stretch the skin but patients don’t attribute their pain and discomfort to skin stretching. The beauty about our skin is that it accommodates – take pregnancy for example. Once skin has been stressed through stretching, it relaxes in response which alleviates the pain. Furthermore, in breast augmentation surgery, the implants are placed under the muscles which requires cutting the pectoral muscles which hurts more.
Will people be able to tell?
Generally, most cosmetic procedures enhance your looks or minimize your perceived flaws unnoticed. You may get a few compliments or remarks about your weight or your form, but typically, no one will know if you don’t tell. Easing into a natural-looking result is something that you plan with your surgeon thoroughly, because when you get implants that are too big for your frame – it does give it away.
Will I lose my ability to breastfeed with breast implants?
While patients are warned about the possibility that they may lose the ability to do so, most women are able to breastfeed. It just takes careful planning and communication with your surgeon regarding your post-surgical expectations. Furthermore, women who have breast implants should not worry that breastfeeding will cause breast sagging, as evidenced by a study of nearly 120 moms. It is also worth mentioning that silicone breast implants do not affect breast milk, as claimed by the Federal Centers for Disease Control.
On one note, pregnancy plans should also be discussed with your surgeon because this also affects the timing of your surgery. You may ask your surgeon of choice on the general guidelines about this matter.
What is breast augmentation surgery like?
The surgery is fairly standard procedure that usually takes between an hour or two. It is also generally performed on an outpatient bases, although each surgeon has their own preferences and approach to breast augmentation. You just have to be more thorough in your search for a surgeon, until you find one whose approach is something you are confident and comfortable with.
Do breast implants cause cancer?
There have been several headlines that would scare you out of your decision about breast implants, but it is definitely wise to know all the details before deciding on it. Several articles claim that certain breast implants are linked to a rare type of cancer called anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL).
ALCL is not breast cancer.
Texture implants are pointed out as the culprit behind ALCL, but there are studies which suggest that these implants do not cause it. Daniel C. Mills, MD, president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) claimed that, “there’s a possibility it’s bacteria that can hide in the texturing.” This explains why surgeons use antibiotics as prophylactic treatment during surgery to get rid of any bacteria. Any surgery to remove defective implants are claimed to be a rare occurrence.
We hope this clears up a few things for you, but should you have more questions in mind feel free to send them over to Dr. Daood. Book your consultation today!