If you are seriously considering breast augmentation, part of your research will involve investigating the risks of surgery. Orlando Cosmetic Surgery is here to help as you balance your individual goals with potential complications. As you
decide if this surgery is right for you, we also suggest you explore the vocabulary that is useful to know when you do your research or speak to surgeons.
That vocabulary is available within articles at the trusted online resource of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Remember that all reputable surgeons will ultimately request your signed consent form, and it is important to know the consequences of any surgical procedure.
Orlando Cosmetic Surgery does not want to frighten you concerning your breast augmentation surgery, but we also do not want you to consider any surgery in the same light as getting your hair cut and styled. At Orlando Cosmetic Surgery, we want our patients to understand the details of the risks as well as the rewards of any cosmetic surgery.
With any type of surgery there are three generalized risks:
- Anesthesia,
- Bleeding
- or Infection.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the specific risks or negative effects reported with breast augmentation surgery:
Breast Augmentation: The Risks
1. With breast surgery, there are risks that you might experience changes in nipple or breast sensation. Likewise, you might have poor scar formation of the skin. You should discuss the texture and elasticity of your skin during your
consultation.
2. Patients of some surgeons have reported faulty positioning of their implants. Sometimes this is due to the fact that they actually need a breast lift, which is a different procedure that can be combined with your augmentation or done as a separate operation. If your breasts have significant drooping, investigate the breast lift surgery at one of our previous articles.
3. Capsular Contracture: This term refers to the formation of “tight scar tissue around the implant.”
“With capsular contracture the scar or capsule surrounding the breast implant begins to tighten and harden. As a result of this “contracture” the breast may feel hard and tight.”
Avoiding this side-effect is the reason frequent massaging of the breast is recommended during healing.
4. Seroma: Seroma is excess clear tissue fluid accumulation. It might need to be drained, but it could become absorbed. Keep in mind some swelling is normal. If this condition becomes serious, the fluid around the implant might need to be drained. It is also possible that your body could simply absorb it.
As you face your decisions, remember that a breast augmentation should not does not put your breast health at risk. Also, keep in mind that breast implants are not necssarily meant to last an entire lifetime. Future surgery might be required. For more information about breast augmentation, visit this helpful resource.
Just as you maintain careful watch on your health during pregnancy or menopause, you must schedule careful and regular breast health examinations once you have invested in your breast implants.
Although we can not predict your exact recovery time because of the individuality of your case, we can give you some generalized information about your recovery from your breast augmentation.
Breast Augmentation: The Recovery
Once you have awakened in the recovery room, your breasts will be wrapped in bandages. Additionally, you might have elastic bandages which will help minimize swelling and reduce the risk of infection.
Instructions that are customized to your case will soon be given to you. “It will be important to cleanse the incision sites and apply ointment as directed. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully.”
Typically, recovery from post-operative pain or discomfort should last 24 to 48 hours.
After that you should follow a regime of reduced activity few days. In most cases some soreness and swelling will remain for a few weeks.
Dr. Cicilioni and his concerned staff will give you support and advise as you ease back into your normal level of life activities.
As you enjoy your new curvaceous shape, your exercise and activities will soon equal or surpass the levels of your previous life style.
The best side-effects of the surgery might be a surge of new self-confidence and personal well-being as you become accustomed to life after breast augmentation.