If you’ve always felt like your breasts were the wrong shape or size, you’re not alone. In fact, there were 365,000 breast augmentations performed in 2021 in the United States.
Breast augmentations typically increase or improve the size, shape, and fullness of the breasts by using implants. These implants go under the chest muscles or breast tissue and can last an average of 7 to 10 years.
While this is a popular plastic surgery procedure, it does come with some risks and recovery time. Before deciding on having breast implants placed, you’ll need to talk to your doctor to determine if you’re a good candidate.
Types of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation typically involves either placing implants or doing a fat transfer. While there are several types of breast augmentation, some of the most common are:
- Saline implants: These are almost like water balloons made with a silicone shell filled with a sterile saline solution. The amount of solution determines the shape, feel, and firmness of the breast, and the sterile saline will be absorbed into the body if any of it leaks out.
- Silicone gel-filled implants: These implants have a silicone outer shell filled with a silicone gel. If the implant breaks, the gel may stay inside the implant, or it might leak out. These implants require regular appointments with a plastic surgeon to make sure they’re working.
- Fat transfer breast augmentation: Some people opt to get a fat transfer augmentation instead of having an implant. During this procedure, the surgeon uses liposuction to remove fat from other areas and then injects it into the breasts. While this can be effective, it’s best for people looking for a relatively small boost to their breast size.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Before the surgery ever begins, you’ll have to consult with a plastic surgeon. This will help you figure out the right size and type of implant and give the surgeon a clear picture of your health and medical history.
Once you get an appointment scheduled for augmentation, you’ll also have a list of things to do to prepare. These may include avoiding certain foods and alcohol in the days leading up to the procedure and removing jewelry, contact lenses, and nail polish.
On the big day, you will be placed under general anesthesia or IV sedation. Then, the surgeon will make an incision and insert the implant, either under your breast tissue or behind your breast muscle. Once it’s placed, the surgeon will close the incision site and cover your breasts with gauze and maybe a surgical bra. There may also be drainage tubes placed to help with the healing process.
Recovering From Breast Augmentation
After surgery, you’ll spend a short period of time in the hospital, but most people go home the same day. Then, you’ll be given certain instructions on how to recover, how to take pain medication, and when to have drainage tubes removed if they were used. After about a week, you’ll have your stitches removed (unless dissolvable sutures were removed).
Over the next several weeks, you’ll be instructed to take it easy and avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activities. It can take up to six weeks before you can get back to your normal daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people get breast augmentations?
The benefits of breast augmentation encourage people to get them. These can include increased confidence and self-esteem after they receive their new appearance.
Is breast augmentation dangerous?
Because breast augmentation is a surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. There is always the potential for wound healing issues, developing a hematoma or having an infection develop. However, these aren’t particularly common. Surgeons do their best to minimize the risk to their patients with sterilization procedures and best practices.
What are the side effects?
Typically, after surgery, there are some side effects. In the case of breast augmentation, the most common side effects are soreness and an increased sensitivity, especially in the nipple region. The area may bruise, bleed, or swell as well.
Can you still breastfeed after a procedure?
Because breast augmentation surgery involves cutting into the breast, there is always the chance that it will negatively impact the nerves and ducts within the tissue that are responsible for milk production. However, there are ways to minimize the risk of impacting lactation, so if you plan to breastfeed in the future, tell your surgeon during your consultation. They may be able to place an implant under the muscle and avoid surgical incisions around the areola, which can reduce the risk.
How long do breast implants last?
Typically, breast implants last for between 7 and 10 years. This means that most women who get this procedure done will likely need it done again in the future as well.
