One of the most popular plastic surgery procedures for women is breast augmentation surgery. Breast augmentation also called a boob job or a mammoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure used to increase the size, and enhance the shape, of the breasts. With augmentation, implants are inserted into the breasts to make them more full and to add shape them.

Breast augmentation is performed for a variety of reasons. Women who feel their breasts are too small or one breast is larger than the other seek out this procedure to improve self-confidence. Women may also get augmentation as reconstruction after surgery for breast cancer. Still, others choose augmentation after having children. If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to understand what to expect during and after the procedure.

The Operation

Typically, breast augmentation procedures take place in an outpatient center and most women go home on the same day. Depending on the procedure’s specific details, the plastic surgeon will make an incision under the breast or near the armpit to insert the implant. Once inserted and positioned, the plastic surgeon will close the incision with stitches. The surgery lasts 1 to 2 hours and patients are given general anesthesia for the procedure.

Post-Op

Post-operation recovery differs for each patient. Typically, there is swelling and pain during the first 2 to 3 days after the procedure. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to manage the pain and prevent infection. Following the operation, you should have a friend or loved one by your side to help you in case you need it. You should sleep upright for the first few days after the surgery.

The Days and Weeks After

The next few days after your procedure, you will have regular check-up visits with your plastic surgeon to ensure the procedure went well, to check for infection, and to make sure the wound is healing properly. You will need someone to drive you to your commitments for the first few days after the procedure, although some doctors use telemed procedures for post-op follow-up.

Most patients are about to return to their routines after a few days following surgery and can take part in more strenuous activities two to three weeks after the procedure. However, activities such as strenuous exercise, lifting heavy objects, and raising your arms above your head should be avoided for about eight weeks after the procedure. Most individuals will able to return to their regular lifestyles and activities about eight weeks post-op.

The Right Candidate

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for breast augmentation. To be eligible for the procedure done, you should be healthy and have maintained your body weight for at least six months before the procedure. If your weight fluctuates, your breast surgery may not have the desired aesthetic if you continue to lose or gain weight. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should hold off on getting augmentation until nursing is complete and your doctor has determined that your breast has returned to its new “normal” state.

Risks

Like with any medical procedure, breast augmentation is not without some risk, although your plastic surgeon will take every precaution to ensure the risks are minimal. The most common risks are:

• Scarring
• Breast pain
• Breast swelling
• Infection
• Change in sensation in breasts
• Implant leaks or ruptures

Be sure to follow your surgeon’s directions before and after your procedure to ensure you reduce the chances of complications and risks.

If you are interested in getting a breast augmentation procedure done, talk to a plastic surgeon. If you are searching for a plastic surgeon for your breast surgery, the MAXiM Breast Surgery is the right place for you. Their experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience working on breast surgeries. Call (646) 475-2099 today to make an appointment.