It's normal to feel a little sad or inadequate about the size of your breasts at times. Perhaps after having children or losing weight suddenly, the shape and size of your breasts may change. For those who are considering breast augmentation surgery for these reasons, in this article, we will talk about it in detail, as if we were talking to a friend.
What is breast augmentation surgery?
Simply put, this is a surgical procedure to increase the size, shape, or correct asymmetry of your breasts. There are two main ways to do this. One is to insert a breast implant. The other is to take fat from another part of your body and inject it into your breasts. This is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world.
What are the main methods for performing this surgery?
As we mentioned earlier, there are two main methods. Before deciding which method is right for you, you should be well aware of the pros and cons of both. Also, it is essential to talk to a qualified, expert plastic surgeon about this.
1. Breast Implants
This is the most commonly used method. There are several types of these implants. You can choose based on the look and feel you want.
| Implant Type | Special features and what to know |
|---|---|
| Saline Implants | These contain purified salt water (sterile saline). If this somehow bursts inside the body, the liquid is absorbed by the body and eliminated without any harm. |
| Silicone Implants | These have a silicone gel inside. They feel more natural to the touch. However, if they burst, the gel can remain inside or leak out. Therefore, if you use these, you should always see a doctor and get checked. |
| Form-Stable "Gummy Bear" Implants | These are made of a thick silicone gel. Even if the implant bursts, its shape will not change. They are a bit stiff. If you are using this type, the incision in the skin should be a bit longer. |
| Textured Implants | Because these have a rough surface, they adhere to the body's tissues. Therefore, they move less within the breast. However, a very rare cancer condition called ``(BIA-ALCL)`` has been associated with these rough-surfaced implants. |
2. Fat Transfer Augmentation
In this method, fat is taken from areas of your body where there is excess fat (for example, the stomach, thighs, back) through a method called ``Liposuction,'' which is cleaned and injected into the breasts. This method is often suitable for those who are looking for a relatively small increase in breast size .
Why would someone decide to have this kind of surgery?
There can be various personal reasons for this. Some of the main reasons are:
- Change your appearance because you think your breasts are too small.
- If the size of your breasts is different (asymmetrical), adjust it.
- If your breasts have decreased in size and become saggy after pregnancy or after losing a lot of weight, get them fixed.
- To correct changes that occurred after breast surgery due to another medical condition.
- Through this, increase your self-confidence and self-esteem.
What happens when you go to see the doctor?
This is the most important step. If you are considering this surgery, you should first see a qualified plastic surgeon. When you do, go in with a clear idea of what you want to change about your breasts.
Remember, the goal here is not "perfection", but "improvement". It is also very important that you are in good mental and physical health and have realistic expectations.
What the doctor will ask you
- What medications are you currently taking?
- What allergies do you have?
- Do you smoke?
- What surgeries have you had before?
- Previous issues related to your breasts (lumps, mammograms) and whether anyone in your family has had breast cancer.
Questions you should ask your doctor
- How experienced are you in this field? How long have you been performing these surgeries?
- Can I see before-and-after pictures of the surgeries you've had?
- Is a breast implant or fat transfer procedure best for me?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of grafts?
- Will I be able to breastfeed my baby after this surgery?
- What are the risks of this surgery?
- What if I am not satisfied with the results of the surgery?
How do you prepare before surgery?
Your doctor may ask you to do things like this before surgery:
- Get a blood test.
- Change or stop some medications you are currently taking.
- If you smoke, definitely stop.
- Stop taking medications that increase bleeding, such as aspirin, and some painkillers.
It is very important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly for the surgery to be successful and for a speedy recovery afterward.
Also, arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night. You may need to take a few days off work, as you will be unable to go to work.
What are the risks and side effects of the surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks and side effects. It is wise to be well-informed about these before making a decision.
| Risk/Complication Type | Simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Common conditions that may occur after surgery | |
| Pain and swelling | Pain, increased nipple sensitivity, bruising, and swelling are normal for a few days after surgery. |
| Complications that may occur over time | |
| Scar tissue formation (Capsule Contracture) | The body forms a thick layer of scar tissue around the implant. This can cause the breast to become firm, painful, and change shape. |
| Implant rupture or leakage | Implants don't last a lifetime. They can burst over time, which may require further surgery in the future. |
| Shape change | The uterus can become loose and move around. Pregnancy, weight gain/loss, etc. can also cause changes in appearance. |
| BIA-ALCL cancer | This is a very rare type of immune system cancer. It has been reported most often in people who have had textured implants. |
When should I see the doctor after the surgery?
If you experience any of these symptoms during your recovery , call your doctor immediately:
- Fever.
- Unusual fluid, such as pus, draining from a surgical wound.
- Broken stitches.
- Sudden enlargement or firmness of one or both breasts, accompanied by pain and pressure.
Take-Home Message
- Breast augmentation surgery is a serious procedure. Do not take it lightly.
- For this , be sure to choose only a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon (Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon).
- Before surgery, be sure to discuss all the pros, cons, and risks with your doctor to make sure you fully understand them.
- Have realistic expectations. Surgery is about improvement, not perfection.
- Breast implants do not last a lifetime. They may require further surgery to replace or remove them in the future.
- Follow the doctor's instructions carefully before and after surgery. This will directly affect your recovery and the final result.
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