BREAST AUGMENTATION

Breast augmentation surgery otherwise known as a “boob job” or “breast implants” aims to improve the size and shape of the breasts. Before undergoing this surgery think carefully about your expectations and discuss these with your surgeon.

Breast augmentation surgery is a relatively safe procedure. However, with all surgeries there are always risks involved. The greatest risk in this procedure is capsular contracture. This is when the body creates a protective membrane of scar tissue around the foreign object (the implant). This capsule of scar tissue tightens too much which gives the breast a hard consistency. This can be treated by removing or replacing the breast implant.

A small percentage of women may develop an infection around the implant. In some cases the implant should be removed and replaced a few months later when the infection is fully healed.

In the consultation with your surgeon, the surgeon will evaluate your general health and will explain which is the best surgical technique to place the implants based on your skin tone and the size and shape of your breasts and nipples. Be honest with your surgeon. Tell your surgeon if you smoke, take any form of medications, remedies, vitamins or drugs.


Anaesthesia
The anaesthesia which is used during breast augmentation surgery is a general anaesthetic where the patient is put to sleep during the procedure. Some surgeons use intravenous sedation.


The Procedure
The procedure of inserting and placing the implants depends on your anatomy and on the recommendations of the surgeon. The incision can be under the breast, around the nipple or under the armpit. The aim of the surgeon will be to make the smallest scar possible. Once the incision is made the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant behind the mammary gland or behind the muscle.

The surgery will last around two hours. During the first 48 hours you will feel some pain, tightness around the breast area and tiredness. However, the pain can be relieved with painkillers that will be prescribed for you as well as antibiotics to prevent infection.  After around 10 days the stitches can be removed. The breasts will swell up for around 5 weeks after surgery.


Post surgery
You can go back to work a few days later. Exercise should not be done for around 4 weeks after surgery. Avoid direct sun contact on the scar for around 6 weeks. Driving should not be done for around 2 weeks and lifting heavy objects should be strictly avoided.

Every year thousands of women undergo this surgery and are very happy with the results.