Breast augmentation is widely considered one of the most exciting and transformative procedures in cosmetic surgery. For women who are looking for a way to feel sexier, more feminine, and more confident, breast augmentation can truly be life-changing. With a newly enhanced figure and boosted self-esteem, women who undergo breast augmentation often see improvements in their relationships, career, and life in general.
In addition to the long list of incredible benefits to be gained from breast augmentation, it is important that patients also understand some of the basics about the procedure itself, including what the surgery entails and what to expect during recovery. One important consideration for patients thinking about getting breast implants is the position and extent of scarring they will be left with. As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation requires the surgeon to make incisions, which will ultimately lead to the presence of scars. The highly experienced and exceptional team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY, led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James N. Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev, places an extreme amount of importance on helping patients achieve their ultimate aesthetic goals with the least amount of scarring possible.
While the experience and precision of the surgeon are paramount in minimizing the extent of scarring after a procedure, there are also some things you can do at home to ensure your incisions heal properly, completely, and in the most visually appealing way possible. Read on to learn more about the benefits of breast augmentation, what to expect during the postoperative period, and how to care for your incisions.
How can a breast augmentation help me?
Breast augmentation with implants is a fantastic way for women to permanently and dramatically increase the volume of their breasts. This can be particularly beneficial for women who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or the aging process, as well as those who simply have small breasts naturally. Even women with relatively full breasts can undergo breast augmentation to further enhance the size, position, and overall contour of their breasts. Breast implants are also used to restore a more natural figure for women who have undergone a mastectomy after breast cancer, or those who have been disfigured due to trauma or birth defect. Regardless of your reason for pursuing breast augmentation in Long Island, NY, the caring and experienced team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery can help.
What should I expect after breast augmentation?
Immediately following breast augmentation, which is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about 2 – 3 hours, you will be taken to the recovery room to wake up. After a few hours, you will be able to go home, but you will need to be driven by a trusted friend or loved one. During the first few days after breast augmentation, it is normal to experience grogginess, discomfort, and swelling, and your mobility and upper body strength will be somewhat limited. For these reasons, it is essential that you plan to have help around the house and with your children during this time period.
Most patients are ready to return to work after about 1 – 2 weeks, depending on the physical demands of their job, and more strenuous activity – including exercise – can usually be resumed after about 3 – 4 weeks. It is important to get your doctor’s clearance before returning to your normal fitness regimen, though. After 6 – 8 weeks, the majority of your swelling will likely have resolved, and you will begin to see your preliminary results. However, keep in mind that your implants will continue to settle, and your final results may not be visible for several months.
What kind of scars will I have after breast augmentation?
The position, length, and appearance of your scars will depend heavily on several factors, including:
- Surgeon’s experience and skill
- Type of implant used
- Size of implant
- Type of procedure (augmentation, lift, fat transfer, etc.)
- Type of closure used
- Type of dressing used
- Patient’s body type
- Patient’s skin type
- Previous surgeries
- History of scarring/healing
In the majority of breast augmentation cases, the surgeon will make an incision under the crease of the breast and insert the implant. This placement makes scars easy to conceal, not only because they are hidden under the breasts, but also because clothing, swimsuits, and underwear will help to cover them. However, patients who undergo a breast lift in conjunction with their breast augmentation will likely have more extensive scarring. Many breast augmentation+lift cases utilize the lollipop incision, which involves an incision around the perimeter of the areola and vertically down the center of the breast. While this results in a larger amount of visible scarring, most patients agree that the striking improvement in their physique is well worth the scars!
How can I minimize the appearance of my breast augmentation scars?
The most important thing you can do to ensure the most complete healing of your scars is to carefully follow your doctor’s guidelines. These will likely include the following tips, tools, and instructions:
- Take any prescribed medications, including antibiotics
- Take any recommended supplements, such as Arnica
- Keep the incisions clean and dry
- Do not forcibly remove the Steri-Strips; wait for them to fall off
- Do not submerge the incisions
- Wear your supportive medical bra
- Do not wear a bra with underwire
- Consistently use recommended topical ointments, including scar cream
By following these guidelines closely, most patients are relatively satisfied with the final texture and color of their breast augmentation scars. Your doctor can further advise you on additional products and therapies, including silicone strips, that may help promote fading of your scars. Choosing a surgeon who is highly experienced in breast augmentation plays an important role in the final appearance of your scars, so it is crucial to select a board-certified, qualified, skilled provider.
I want a breast augmentation in Long Island, NY. Where do I start?
If you are seriously considering breast augmentation in Long Island, NY, the first step is to be evaluated by an experienced, knowledgeable, and reputable plastic surgeon. Call Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with one of our esteemed board-certified plastic surgeons, and learn more about how our team will work to minimize the visibility of your breast implant scars as much as possible, giving you a stunning look that you can be proud of!
