Breast Augmentation Questions

Q - What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement and augmentation mammaplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure which uses implants to increase the size of the breasts.

Q - Is breast augmentation right for me?
If you are a healthy woman over the age of eighteen who is looking to improve the size and shape of the breasts, you may be a good candidate for breast augmentation. It’s also essential that patients have realistic goals for improvement. The procedure can be particularly beneficial for women who have small breasts or whose breasts have decreased in volume following pregnancy or weight loss.

Q - What are breast implants made of?
Breast implants are made of a silicone shell and may be filled with either saline, which is a salt-water solution, or with silicone gel.

Q - What does a consultation for breast augmentation entail?
During a consultation for breast augmentation, Dr. Berman will examine your breasts, take a thorough medical history, and discuss your goals. All aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the incision and implant locations, the type of implant, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for breast augmentation?
Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia is commonly used for breast augmentation.

Q - How is breast augmentation performed?
Incisions for breast augmentation may be made within the armpit, around the areola, in the crease below the breast, or on the navel. A saline or silicone gel implant is then inserted through the incision and placed either above the chest muscle or below the chest muscle. The incisions are then closed.

Q - How long does breast augmentation take to perform?
Breast augmentation takes about one to two hours to perform.

Q - Where are the incisions made for breast augmentation?
There are several possible incision locations including within the armpit, around the areola, in the crease below the breast, or on the navel.

Q - Does breast augmentation leave scars?
The incision made for breast augmentation do result in scars though they tend to be located in well-concealed places such as within the armpit, around the areola, in the crease below the breast, or on the navel.

Q - Does breast augmentation involve much pain?
Patients may experience some discomfort for the first few days but medication can help to control this.

Q - What is the recovery like after breast augmentation?
Patients can expect some bruising and swelling after breast augmentation. Most of the swelling will fade within three to five weeks. Dressings may be removed within several days, though a surgical bra may need to be worn for a period of time afterward. The breasts may remain sensitive to stimulation for several weeks.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing breast augmentation?
Patients may be able to return to work within a few days after undergoing breast augmentation.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my breast augmentation procedure?
Patients will need to wait three to four weeks before partaking in strenuous activities and exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my breast augmentation procedure?
Stitches are removed in about seven days after surgery.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with breast augmentation?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with breast augmentation may include infection, capsular contracture, changes in nipple and breast sensation, mammography interference, and implant deflation or rupture.

Q - Is breast augmentation covered by insurance?
Insurance generally does not cover breast augmentation procedures which are performed for purely cosmetic purposes. Some amount of coverage may be available when treating a congenital deformity or reconstructing the breast after mastectomy. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance companies.

Q - Can I finance my breast augmentation procedure?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

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