Are there times when you are not happy with your appearance, especially the size or shape of your breasts? Perhaps you wish your breasts were a little bigger and fuller. This is a feeling that many people have. In such cases, one solution that some people choose is breast enlargement surgery, or as we all know it, Breast Augmentation . This is a cosmetic surgery. Also, this method is used to recreate a breast after a breast has been removed (Mastectomy) due to breast cancer.
So today we'll talk about breast augmentation surgery. We'll talk about everything in a simple and clear way, including what types of implants are used, how the surgery is performed, what the risks are, and what happens after the surgery.
What types of breast implants are there?
There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Let's see what the difference is between the two.
| Implant Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Saline Implants | These are made by filling a silicone sleeve with sterile saline. They can be filled to the required amount during surgery. They feel a little firm to the touch. They can usually be used for about 10-20 years. |
| Silicone Implants | These are made by filling a silicone shell with a silicone gel. Due to the nature of this gel, they feel and look very similar to natural breasts. They last longer than saline implants, sometimes more than 20 years. |
What suits you best?
Both types have good and bad sides.
- Saline implants are generally less expensive. However, they are more likely to wrinkle, shrink, and possibly burst over time. If they do burst, the salt water inside is absorbed without harming the body.
- Silicone implants are popular because they look and feel natural. However, if they rupture, the silicone gel inside can collect in the form of lumps inside the breast or elsewhere in the body. While this does not pose a major health problem, if the silicone spreads throughout the body, it can be difficult to remove.
The most important thing is that this decision depends on your preferences and your body type. A silicone implant may be more suitable for someone with low body fat and a slimmer body, as it is not as clearly visible under the skin. You should discuss this with your doctor to make the best decision.
How much does this surgery cost?
Since this is a cosmetic surgery, it is difficult to say exactly what the cost will be. It varies greatly depending on the hospital you choose, the doctor you choose, and the type of implant you choose. Even in Sri Lanka, this can cost hundreds of thousands of rupees.
Most importantly, since this is a cosmetic surgery, the cost is not usually covered by health insurance. Therefore, it is important to think about the financial aspect in advance.
How to find the best and most qualified doctor?
The most important step you should take before undergoing such a surgery is to choose a well-trained, experienced plastic surgeon.
- Do your research: Ask your family doctor or gynecologist about this. They can recommend good doctors.
- Get a Consultation: Meet and talk to a few doctors. Find out about their experience and how they work.
Questions you should definitely ask your doctor
When you go to see a doctor, make a list of questions in advance. That way, you won't forget anything. Here are some questions you can ask.
About the doctor's qualifications and experience
- How long have you been working in this field?
- How many surgeries like this do you perform per month?
- Do you have operating room facilities at a reputable hospital? Which hospitals are those?
About surgery and implants
- Is silicone or saline better for me? Why?
- What breast size do you suggest would suit my body shape?
- Will my nipples or breasts lose sensation after surgery?
- Will I be able to breastfeed my baby after the surgery?
- Will these implants affect the accuracy of mammograms used to detect breast cancer?
- What is the warranty if this implant bursts? What are the fees I will have to pay?
About risks and complications
- What are the risks of this surgery?
- Will my current medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, affect this surgery or the recovery time?
- If any complications arise after surgery, what policy do you follow?
About pre- and post-surgery preparation
- What dietary and lifestyle changes should I make before surgery?
- What can be done about swelling, bruising, and pain after surgery?
- Will the medications I usually take (birth control pills, medications for mental illness) affect anesthesia?
- How long will I have to miss work?
How is the operation performed?
Generally, to have this surgery, you must be at least 18 years old for saline implants and 22 years old for silicone implants, because breasts can still grow until that age.
Your doctor will examine you before surgery. They will discuss your needs and decide what is best for you. They may also ask you to stop taking certain medications a few weeks before surgery.
The surgery usually takes one to two hours . You will be given general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain. The doctor will make a very small incision under your breast, under your armpit, or around your nipple, and insert the implant through it into the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. The incision will then be closed with stitches.
How long does it take to recover? (Recovery)
After surgery, your breasts will be covered with gauze and you will be asked to wear a special surgical bra for support.
- First week: You should rest well during this time. It is not recommended to lift any weights or do strenuous exercise. You can take painkillers like paracetamol for the pain. The doctor will give you a stronger painkiller if necessary. Avoid driving.
- 1-2 weeks: If the stitches are non-dissolving, they will be removed in about a week or two. Most people can return to work in about 5-7 days. However, if your job is physically demanding, it is best to wait at least three weeks.
- Week 6: By now you can resume normal activities and light exercise. The scars will gradually begin to fade.
- 3 months: By now, the swelling in the breasts has completely subsided, and they are starting to look and feel natural.
Remember, it usually takes about 6-8 weeks to fully heal. This time can vary from person to person.
What are the risks and complications of this?
Like any surgery, this one has some risks.
- Breast pain
- Change in sensation in the nipples or breasts
- Scar tissue forming and hardening around the implant
- The appearance of scars
- Bleeding and infections
- Asymmetrical size or shape of the two breasts
- Implant rupture or leak (Rupture/Leak)
- Associated Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma (AALCL), a very rare cancer
- A condition called Breast Implant Illness that occurs in some people (symptoms such as extreme fatigue, memory loss, and skin problems may occur here)
If a silicone implant ruptures, there may be no symptoms. This is called a 'Silent Rupture'. That's why it's important for people with silicone implants to have regular checkups. Doctors recommend getting an MRI or Ultrasound scan 5-6 years after surgery, and then every 2-3 years.
Take-Home Message
- Breast implant surgery is a completely personal decision . Think carefully about it, research the information, and make a decision.
- The most important thing is to choose a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon . Talk to several people and choose the best one.
- Be clear about the risks and complications of this surgery. Talk to your doctor about this openly.
- Breast implants are not something that lasts a lifetime . They may need to be replaced or removed over time.
- It is imperative to have regular medical examinations (MRI/Ultrasound) , especially if you have silicone implants.
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