Breast augmentation can be a powerful morale booster, but it's not something to take lightly. Whether you've opted for implants for cosmetic reasons alone or as a part of breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy, here's go about it safely.
Instructions
1. Read up on implants at the FDA Web site (fda.gov), where the information comes from unbiased sources. Do your visual homework at ImplantInfo.com, where you can see scores of before and after photographs.
2. Locate a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (plasticsurgery.org).
3. Consult with several surgeons, taking along photographs of breast sizes and shapes you like. Ask if your body type is suited to implants; very thin women aren't always good candidates, as wrinkling in the implant can show through the skin.
4. Ask surgeons for patient referrals before you go under the knife. Also check out the doctor with medical societies in your state to find out if there have been any complaints or malpractice lawsuits filed against him or her.
5. Inquire about the incision: Will the surgeon go in under the breast or armpit, through the belly button or the nipple? Most implants go in beneath the chest muscle for more natural-looking results and easier mammograms, but this method takes longer to heal.
6. Ask what kind of implants are used. Saline-filled sacs are really the only type available at this time. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons does not recommend silicon implants.
7. Wear a bra in your desired cup size to the doctor's and ask to try it with an implant. Although most women go up two cup sizes, many later wish they'd gone bigger. Discuss this with the doctor.
8. Make sure you receive comprehensive advice about potential complications and all aspects of the surgery and recovery.
9. Prepare to pay about $1,300 for saline implants or about $1,800 for silicone, with an additional $3,000 for surgeon's fees.
10. Expect scarring. Ask about possible future problems such as difficulty with breast-feeding. Complications can range from ruptures and leakage to infections and tightening of the scar tissue around the implant. The implants themselves can wrinkle, deflate, harden and develop an unnatural feel.
Tags: American Society, American Society Plastic, doctor with, Plastic Surgeons, Society Plastic, Society Plastic Surgeons
