When people have long considered making a change to their appearance, cosmetic surgery has been a viable option. Body image is the way someone perceives their selves and how they feel others perceive them, and statistics say that approximately 91% of women are unhappy with their look.
Learning to love the skin you’re in can be a challenging task, and those considering cosmetic surgery can be faced with a rollercoaster of emotions. But, those that have gone under the knife have agreed the results do pay off – leaving them feeling more refreshed, attractive and confident.
One of the most common procedures is breast augmentation, but if you’re considering the enhancing procedure there’s a lot to learn about what to expect before, during and after surgery. What are the risks associated with this type of surgery and what’s the difference between saline and silicone implants? We delve into the top tips and considerations of breast implants.
1. Do a Consultation to Determine Eligibility
A consultation with your doctor to determine your eligibility is crucial before you make your final decision. Most women may have a breast augmentation between the ages of 30 and 39 years of age, but your age will not automatically qualify you. Your motivation for breast implants will determine your eligibility as will any past medical history and current health.
Your surgeon will also help you determine the best size for you. You may have plans to go from a 34A to a 34B, but your surgeon may suggest a 34C because of skin’s elasticity. Be prepared to change your plans if your doctor suggests it.
Ask your doctor about the difference between saline and silicone breast implants and what will work best with your body type. In general, saline solution is more natural than silicone. If the implants leak, the saline is less likely to interfere with your body’s natural chemistry because it’s simply salt and water.
Silicone implants look more natural because the sticky, gel type substance mimics the woman’s fat in her body. Silicone implants are inserted full. Saline implants are implanted empty and are later filled. Saline implants are recommended for women who are 18 years or older. Silicone implants are recommended for women who are 22 years or older.
Your doctor should discuss your options in the initial consultation for the best outcome after surgery. Otherwise, there may be regrets associated with the procedure.
2. Exercise Before Your Surgery
Experts recommend exercising before your surgery. You’ll feel better after the surgery and recover faster if you’re in better health and fit. Focus on building the back muscles to carry the extra weight of the breasts as at first the weight may be hard to get used to, but as you heal, you’ll grow accustomed to the new weight.
4. Prepare in Advance for Your Return Home
Prepare in advance for your return home so there is less work for you – recovery time is crucial. Food and medications should be available and easily accessible to avoid additional strain. If someone can be available to help you for the first day, at least, it will be beneficial to you. You should also buy another bra to increase your comfort level and ensure an accurate fit.
5. Ask for the Appropriate Medications
As with any medical procedure, there will be pain after breast augmentation. You’ll need medication to make the recovery period bearable. If ibuprofen is not enough, request something stronger from you doctor to ease the recovery period.
6. Massage Your Breast to Alleviate the Pain
You can touch your breasts and massage them, gently, to alleviate the pain. It will feel weird initially, but over time it will feel more natural and will get you used to the new you.
7. Exercise After Surgery
Light exercise, like walking, can help with the healing process. Most physicians will recommend taking it slow initially. You can exercise up to 30 minutes to help the swelling subside. The healing times will decrease, and you’ll feel better afterwards. For those that struggle to relax after a procedure, this will help you to get out of the house to and get you back to feeling normal.
8. Don’t Drive
You should refrain from driving for the first few weeks after surgery. Some women feel strain and pain even 14 days after the surgery so be weary of pushing yourself too much. As long as you can avoid driving, you should. It will help the healing process.
9. Take It Easy!
Don’t try to overdo it. Read a book. Watch movies, and do low key activities for the first two weeks. You won’t be able to return to full activity until six weeks after the surgery. You need to find a way to perform activities that do not require exertion.
If you are having breast augmentation, know the risks and prepare for the surgery in advance. The surgery is routine and is often successful when performed by a skilled surgeon. Perform your due diligence and go to the best surgeon for a good outcome. Follow the tips and look forward to faster healing times.
Further Reading Related to Breast Augmentation
- Breast Implants Perth | Breast Augmentation – Dr Watts Surgeon Perth
- Breast Augmentation Surgery in Melbourne, Victoria by Dr Carmen Munteanu
- FAQs about Breast Augmentation by Bish Soliman
- Breast Augmentation – Breast Implants in Sydney by Dr Kernohan
- Augmentation Mammoplasty (Breast Augmentation) by Dr Jake Lim
- Breast Augmentation Surgery – Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plast)