Breast augmentation, a journey intertwined with personal choices and physical transformations, is a decision many women consider at various stages of their lives. Whether it’s about enhancing self-confidence, reconstructing post-surgical changes or simply seeking a desired aesthetic, this procedure comes with questions and contemplations.
At New Reflections Plastic Surgery, we understand the significance of this decision. Dr. Nikesh Patel believes in guiding patients with empathy, expertise and thorough information. Here are some common queries about breast augmentation to help you navigate your decision-making process.
Will Augmentation Work for My Sagging Breasts?
This is a common question among women considering breast augmentation. Sagging, or ptosis, of the breasts is a natural occurrence due to aging, gravity, weight fluctuations or post-pregnancy changes. While breast augmentation can add volume and fullness, it’s crucial to understand its limitations in addressing significant sagging.
For those with mild sagging, augmentation alone might be sufficient. However, if the sagging is more pronounced, a combination of augmentation and lift (mastopexy) might be recommended. This combined approach enhances the size and fullness of the breasts and repositions them to a more youthful and perkier location on the chest. Dr. Patel will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the best approach.
How Do I Choose My New Size?
Choosing the size for your breast implants is one of the most important and fun aspects of your augmentation journey. Your final choice should complement your body’s proportions and achieve a look that aligns with your aesthetic and lifestyle. Dr. Patel will guide you through this process, considering factors like your body frame, existing breast tissue, lifestyle, and aesthetic desires.
We also employ advanced visualization tools to help you see potential outcomes. This involves trying different sizes in a specially designed bra, giving you a realistic view of how various implant sizes will look on your body. Maintaining an open mind and considering Dr. Patel’s expert advice is essential, as his experience and understanding of proportions can be invaluable in achieving a beautiful and natural result.
How Much Pain Can I Expect?
Pain and discomfort are an unfortunate part of the healing process after surgical procedures, including breast augmentations. However, the duration and intensity of pain varies greatly from person to person. Most patients describe it as similar to muscle soreness experienced after an intense workout, particularly in the chest area.
At New Reflections Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your comfort and recovery. Dr. Patel will provide detailed pre-operative and post-operative instructions, which may include pain management strategies. Typically, pain is managed effectively with prescribed medications for the first few days post-surgery. Patients are often pleasantly surprised that the discomfort diminishes quite rapidly, with most returning to their routine within a week, albeit with some limitations on physical activities.
We also employ various surgical techniques that focus on minimizing tissue trauma, which can result in a smoother and more comfortable recovery. Following all post-operative care instructions, including activity levels and follow-up appointments, is essential to ensure a safe and efficient recovery process.
Will a Boob Job Increase My Risk of Breast Cancer?
There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer. We urge you to continue your regular breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms. Women with implants should inform their radiologists, as special techniques may be needed to obtain a clear image of the breast tissue. Dr. Patel emphasizes the importance of regular self-examinations and professional screenings post-augmentation, just as you would without implants.
Am I Too Old?
Age, in itself, is not a definitive factor in determining your candidacy for breast augmentation. Instead, it’s about overall health and realistic expectations. Many women in their 40s, 50s, and even beyond have successfully undergone breast augmentation. During your consultation, Dr. Patel will evaluate your health, discuss your goals and ensure that you are a suitable candidate for surgery, regardless of age. The key is not the number of years but your body’s condition and desire for change.
Will I Need Follow-Up Surgeries?
Breast implants, whether silicone or saline, are not considered lifetime devices. While they are designed to be durable and long-lasting, there may be a need for revision surgery in the future. This could be due to various reasons, such as implant aging, changes in personal preferences, or complications like implant rupture or capsular contracture. During your consultation, Dr. Patel will discuss the potential for future surgeries, ensuring you understand the long-term considerations of breast augmentation. It’s essential to have regular follow-up appointments to monitor the condition of your implants and overall breast health.
Should I Wait Until I Am Done Having Children to Have Augmentation?
This is a personal decision that depends on various factors. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can alter the size and shape of the breasts, sometimes impacting the results of breast augmentation. Some women prefer to wait until they have finished having children, while others choose to enjoy the benefits of augmentation earlier in life. If you plan to have children in the near future, it’s worth discussing how pregnancy might affect your results and vice versa. Dr. Patel can provide guidance tailored to your life plans and aesthetic goals.
Can I Breastfeed After an Augmentation?
Most women can breastfeed after breast augmentation, but this can depend on the type of surgery performed. Techniques that involve incisions around the areolar region or significant manipulation of the breast tissue may have a higher risk of affecting breastfeeding capabilities. During your consultation, discussing your future breastfeeding plans is a good idea. Dr. Patel can then tailor the surgical approach to preserve as much of the breast function as possible.
Will My Nipple Sensation or Feeling Change?
Changes in nipple sensation are a common concern among women considering breast augmentation. It’s important to note that some degree of sensation change is possible following the procedure. This can range from increased sensitivity to numbness in the nipple area.
For most women, these changes are temporary and resolve as the breasts heal. However, in some cases, the changes in sensation can be more long-lasting. Dr. Patel will discuss this aspect in detail, explaining the factors that might influence changes in sensation, such as the size and placement of the implants and the surgical technique used.
How Long Until I Can Exercise?
Returning to your exercise routine after breast augmentation is a gradual process. Allowing your body adequate time to heal is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes. Light activities like walking can be resumed reasonably soon after surgery to promote circulation. However, more strenuous exercises must be postponed, especially those involving the upper body.
Most patients can expect to return to full exercise routines within 4-6 weeks post-surgery. Still, this timeline can vary based on individual recovery rates and the specifics of your surgery. Dr. Patel provides personalized guidance on when and how to reintegrate physical activity after your procedure.
Will the New Implants Affect My Ability to Lift Heavy Objects?
Post-recovery, breast implants generally do not hinder your ability to engage in physical activities, including lifting heavy objects. However, allowing your body adequate time to heal following the surgery is crucial. Dr. Patel will provide specific guidelines on when you can resume various physical activity levels. Avoiding strenuous activities will ensure proper healing. Once fully recovered, most women can return to regular exercise routines, including weightlifting, without issues.
Have More Questions?
Dr. Nikesh Patel is here to guide you through the surgical process and help you make informed decisions that align with your health, lifestyle and personal aspirations.
Breast augmentation is a personal decision that should be made with thorough information and professional guidance. At New Reflections Plastic Surgery, we’re committed to ensuring that your journey towards this transformation is as informed, comfortable and fulfilling as possible.
Learn More About Your Breast Augmentation Options!
Ready to explore more? We believe in a patient-centered approach, ensuring that your journey with us reflects your personal aspirations and leads to results that bring joy and confidence.
Contact us for your personal, detailed consultation with Dr. Nikesh Patel. He will be there through every step, from understanding your initial concerns to finalizing your implant choices and the recovery process. Book here or by calling (732) 354-3792. Your trip to self-enhancement starts here, and we’re excited to be a part of it.
