Know Your Own Female Body

Are you unhappy with the size of your chest and find yourself tired of wasting money on push up bras that never seem to work? Or have you been thinking of getting a breast augmentation for a while and have finally decided to pull the trigger? Getting breast augmentation is not an easy decision, as it is a major surgery that can involve a painful recovery. Regardless of where you are in the decision making process, there are things that you need to consider.

Cost and Possible Future Procedures

One thing that prevents many women from getting breast augmentation is the overall cost. Insurance plans do not cover the surgery unless it is medically necessary such as after a mastectomy, largely because breast augmentation is considered cosmetic. So be prepared to spend a few thousand dollars on a larger chest. You also need to consider that one breast augmentation may not last a lifetime. Implants will eventually need to be replaced, meaning that you will have to have another surgery down the road. You should also consider possible changes in your ideal breast size over time, as going to a smaller size will require more surgery.

Types of Implants

There are two main types of implants that patients have to choose from when getting a breast augmentation: silicone and saline. Silicone implants are filled with a type of plastic gel and can pose a higher risk if leaking occurs. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. Both types of implants have a silicone shell that holds the filling. Some patients have reported that silicone implants feel more realistic than saline, but only you can determine which option is right for you.

Recovering from Surgery

Breast augmentation is a major surgery that requires patients go under anesthesia. Most patients will be discharged home the same day, but soreness and fatigue can be expected. Your breast area will be swollen, and you may feel numbness during the first few days of recovery. Tightness in the breasts and general discomfort should also be expected during recover.

Surgeons may also recommend that patients where a postoperative bra or compression bandage while healing, and patients should not return to work for a few days following the procedure. It is also best to avoid any strenuous activity in the weeks following breast augmentation.

For more information, contact Merrick Plastic Surgery SC or a similar organization.