Breast Augmentation
The Procedure
Breast Implants are the most common and satisfying method by which breasts can be augmented or enlarged. The modern implants are very strong and consist of cohesive silicone gel contained within a soft double thickness silicone shell.
The Implants carry the manufacturer's lifetime warranty. The procedure is carried out under light general anaesthesia or twilight sedation. A small 4-5cm incision is made in the crease under the breast. A pocket is then gently created under the breast tissue and the Implant inserted. The opening is then closed with 3 layers of sutures. The whole procedure is performed utilising strict sterile techniques and takes 1-2 hours.
Healing
Every woman's recovery is different. In general, you will feel somewhat sore for several days following your procedure. The first 24-72 hours will be the most uncomfortable. You should be able to resume light duties after one week, at home or at work.
An important part of your recovery may involve you wearing a post-operative sports bra or compression garment, which provides you with extra support while you heal.
Follow your Doctors instructions during the first few weeks. Generally the incision is covered with a strip of tape. Avoid bras or clothing that could rub or irritate the wound. Follow instructions regarding bathing. The incisions/ scars should be kept clean but not soaked. Do not put stress on them or overdo activity, and especially avoid sweating into the wound.
FAQ'S
Are Silicone Implants Safe?
Special studies have been conducted and have determined that much higher levels of silicon have been found in cow's milk and commercially available infant formula than are found in the breast milk of women with Implants.
It is very rare to have sensitivity to silicone.
Detailed information as to safety of silicone Implants can be found on www.mentorcorp.com or www.ascbs.org
How will pregnancy affect my Implants?
Many women who have Breast Implants get pregnant, have babies, and breast feed. Implants affect each stage differently for different women.
Your breasts will enlarge and will go through all the usual changes associated with pregnancy. The amount of enlargement will vary from woman to woman and the size of the Implants will factor into this as well. Some women experience capsular contracture after pregnancy and delivery while others do not. The exact cause of this is unknown, although it may have to do with bacteria released into the blood stream during delivery. The body attempts to protect the implant by making more scar tissue. Another theory is that the breasts go through such changes with pregnancy and nursing that the scar tissue increases once again to protect the device. Talk to your surgeon regarding taking antibiotics during delivery to protect your implants.
Can I breast Feed?
Many women with Breast Implants have successfully breast fed their babies. Current studies indicate that women with implants do not have any higher levels of silicone in their milk than women without breast Implants. Breast Implants can, however, interfere with the ability to breast feed. The peri-areolar incision site is more likely to affect this ability.
How long will it take for my scars to fade?
Your body will be making scar tissue for up to three months. The scar can look its worst at three months. After this time, your body will remodel the scar tissue and it will begin to fade. It can take six months to one year for it ti become the fine white line desired. Be careful not to expose the scar to tanning rays for one year, as this can turn the scar dark brown permanently.
What is the average life expectancy of an Implant?
Implants are not lifetime devices and it is likely they may need to be replaced sometime in your life. Implants have, on average, a lifetime of 8-16 years. Sometimes it is a matter of choice such as size change or shape change and sometimes replacement is necessary due to complications.
