Breast augmentation surgery can be a daunting time, but providing you have done your research and you are sure you’re doing this for the right reasons, it will be worth it in the end. A breast augmentation is a surgical enhancement procedure performed to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts.
It’s important to note that although surgery can enhance the size of the breasts and improve shape/symmetry, it may not bring them closer together or lift breasts that sag. They will remain similar to your old breasts in many ways, and you can’t always know how they will look until they have settled.
You may be a candidate for a breast augmentation if any of the following resonates with you:
- You would like to enhance your body shape as your breasts are too small.
- You want to increase breast volume after pregnancy and nursing.
- You would like to equalize a difference in breast size to gain breast symmetry.
- You would like to reconstruct breasts following a mastectomy or injury.
Breast Augmentation Procedure
The procedure involves making a small incision to insert a breast implant into the area. There are several locations the incision may be made, and this will depend on the patient. The most frequent place is the lower portion of the breast. An incision in the armpit is sometimes considered. Occasionally, an incision may be made surrounding the nipple. The best technique should always be discussed with the surgeon in the consultation phase.
The implant can sit on top of or underneath the chest muscle depending on a number of factors that will be discussed with your surgeon. Generally, underneath the chest takes longer to heal but can give a more natural result, especially for breasts that were smaller to begin with.
Surgery typically lasts from 1 to 3 hours, but again, this will depend on the surgeon, patient, and many other factors.
How To Prepare For Breast Augmentation Surgery
If breast augmentation surgery is something you are considering, then you must ensure you prepare properly. If you are not 100% sure that you want to go ahead with the surgery, then you shouldn’t go ahead. You should be absolutely sure that this is what you want to do before you go ahead with it.
Below, you will find some recommended steps for further preparing yourself for breast augmentation surgery.
Breast augmentation preparation list
1. Learn As Much As You Can About The Surgery
Start by learning as much as you can about the surgery. Will you be staying in the hospital, or will this be an outpatient procedure? Speak to people you know who have had the surgery, and watch videos online. Make sure you know the pros and cons of the surgery. Make sure you understand what could change for you after the surgery. Be realistic about your results. The more you know what to expect, the better you will be able to make an informed decision that is right for you.
If you decide to go ahead with the surgery, you should have full knowledge of all of the risks and cons. You should ensure you are doing this for you, and nobody else. You should also be in a good headspace and feel positive about the surgery.
2. Do Your Research To Ensure You Select The Right Surgeon For The Job
There are numerous surgeons out there who can perform breast augmentation surgery recovery, but you must find the right one for you. This may mean going out there and booking consultations with a handful of surgeons until you find the one that you click with and feel good about. You should trust your surgeon completely, and be happy with their portfolio of work. Any good surgeon will want to ensure you are in the right state of mind and inform you of the downsides as well as the upsides, so be prepared.
3. Get Into Good Emotional Shape
You must be in good emotional shape and feel good about the procedure before booking and going ahead with it. You should ensure you surround yourself with those who support your decision, too, as this will make things much easier. You should also be in overall good health, be at a healthy, stable weight, be finished breastfeeding for at least 3-6 months, and have realistic expectations.
This means, if you’re unhappy with your life now, you won’t magically be happy after you have a breast augmentation. You may like your breasts and body a little better, but your life will not magically change. It will not cure depression and other mental disorders. It won’t get you a promotion. Make sure you are realistic and smart about this.
4. Get Everything In Order Financially
Breast augmentation procedures are not cheap. You may be able to split the cost, but they are still a financial commitment that you need to feel comfortable making. Do not have this done if you will struggle to pay. Bear in mind that you will pay more in the long term if you split the cost, as you are effectively getting a loan. It can sometimes be better to save up the cash and pay it all off at once because of this.
5. Follow The Advice Of Your Surgeon To The Letter
Your surgeon will give you advice that you must stick to if you want to go ahead with the surgery. Make sure you pay close attention and follow what they say to do regarding your diet and any supplements you may be taking. Ensure you are honest about medications, vitamins, and illnesses, too.
You shouldn’t drink alcohol at least a week before surgery, and you should avoid smoking anything containing nicotine for at least 2-4 weeks before the procedure. Yes, one cigarette really can make a difference to the outcome of your surgery. Ensure you are totally clear on what you can/can’t do with your surgeon and stick to it no matter what.
6. Make Post Surgery Arrangements And Get Everything Ready
Making sure you are as prepared as can be beforehand will make your life so much easier after the surgery – things can get a little rough afterwards. Make sure you do the following:
- Book enough time off work.
- Have transportation arranged to and from your surgery.
- Do as many chores as possible so you don’t have to think about them.
- Food prep.
- Arrange childcare.
- Buy comfortable bras and pillows.
- Have a comfortable place to rest at home set up.
- Have things you will need nearby, such as tissues, medication, your phone, etc. You don’t want to have to hunt around for things you may need.
7. Prepare As Much As Possible The Day Before
Make sure you are totally prepared the day before your surgery. You can prepare by changing your bed sheets, taking the garbage out, and even just getting a good night’s sleep. Make it so you have to think about very little once you arrive home from your surgery. It can be a good idea to have some loose clothing ready, too. Everything should be easily in your reach. Think of the things you may struggle with when you can barely lift your arms!
Your stomach must be empty for at least 8 hours before your surgery, so this usually means not eating anything after midnight to be sure. You are permitted to have a small sip of water with medication, though.
8. Prepare Properly On The Day Of The Surgery
Now it’s the day of the surgery, you have hopefully sorted most things out. There are still a few things you can do to make things run smoothly, though. Take a shower and wash using basic soap and water, making sure you don’t apply any lotion, deodorant, makeup, or anything like that. Brush your teeth, but do not drink any water.
Most surgery facilities require arrival approximately two hours prior to your scheduled operation time to allow for check-in and preparation, so make sure you check this with your own hospital/clinic. You can also take care of the finer details, such as taking out contacts and switching to glasses, and preparing a last minute list of questions you may want to ask.
Remember: There’s No Such Thing as Being Too Prepared
When it comes to having a breast augmentation, there is absolutely no such thing as being too prepared. Ask as many questions as you need to, and start far enough in advance to ensure you can relax once the surgery is complete. Making sure a friend, family member, or partner is willing to assist you afterwards can also be a life saver.
What To Expect During The Recovery Process
To recover optimally, plenty of rest and minimal movement is required. When your bandages are taken off, you will need to wear a special surgical bra for several weeks. You may experience minor pain after the surgery. Oral medication may be prescribed in this case. Making sure you follow the advice of your surgeon perfectly will minimize recovery time and maximize your results.