| Dr. Kelly Sullivan is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Breast Augmentation.
Q. What is Breast Augmentation?
A. Breast Augmentation is the surgical placement of breast implants cosmetically to:
- Enlarge a naturally small breast, most commonly the result of heredity
- Restore breast volume lost following pregnancy, as a result of breast-feeding or due to weight loss
- Achieve better symmetry when breasts are moderately disproportionate in size and shape
Adult women of any age can benefit from breast augmentation to enhance small breast size or restore fullness.
Q. How should one prepare for breast augmentation surgery?
A. A consultation with your plastic surgeon is the first step to learn how breast augmentation can enhance your breasts’ appearance and improve your body image. A consultation is designed to fully educate you about breast augmentation in a non-pressured environment and will include:
- A discussion of your goals and an evaluation of your individual case
- The options available in breast augmentation surgery
- The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon
A mammogram may be recommended prior to your procedure to ensure breast health and serve as a baseline for future comparison.
Q. How is a breast augmentation surgery performed?
A. Breast Augmentation requires surgical placement of breast implants. This is performed in a hospital, an outpatient surgery center, or an accredited office-based surgical facility. This procedure requires anesthesia. Incision patterns vary based on the type of implant, degree of enlargement desired, patient anatomy, and patient and surgeon preference.
Q. What are the possible immediate post-operative effects in breast augmentation surgery?
A. The results of breast augmentation are immediately visible. Final results appear gradually over the next few weeks as swelling resolves and breast size and shape settles. Incision lines typically will continue to fade over the next year.
Q. What are the possible longer-term, local effects in breast augmentation surgery?
A. Over time your breasts can change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and gravity.
Q. What is the recovery time for breast augmentation?
A. Recovery time varies with each patient. Initial wound healing may take 5-10 days. A return to light, normal activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, usually within a day or two of surgery. You will be ready to return to work in 5-10 days if you feel comfortable, so long as you do not engage in any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise. Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling resolves, implant position settles and incision lines continue to refine.
Q. How much does breast augmentation cost?
A. The range of breast augmentation surgery including surgeon’s fee, implants, anesthesia, and facility fee can range from $7500-$9000.
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