Breast Augmentation: What you need to know

Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedure in the world. Women opt for breast augmentation to enhance the appearance of their breasts, restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, and to improve their self-esteem and confidence. In this article, we will explore what breast augmentation is, its cost, different types of breast implants, how to prepare for the procedure, the surgery itself, healing after surgery, and how long your implants may last. What is Breast Augmentation? Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or augmentation mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of breast implants to increase the size, shape, and fullness of the breasts. Breast implants are medical devices that are filled with either saline or silicone gel and placed under the breast tissue or chest muscle. The choice of implant and placement location will depend on several factors, including desired outcome, your anatomy, and your plastic surgeon's recommendation. How much does a Breast Augmentation Cost? The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's fee, type of breast implant, surgical facility fee, anesthesia fee, and pre-operative testing. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average total cost of breast augmentation surgery in the USA ranges from $6,000 to $10,000, but can be higher depending on city, surgeon, and facility. More experienced senior plastic surgeons will generally have higher fees. Breast Implants There are two main types of breast implants: saline-filled, and silicone gel-filled. Both types of implants have a silicone shell or envelope, but “saline“ implants are filled with sterile salt water, while “silicone” implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel. The choice of implant will depend on several factors, including the patient's preference, the surgeon's recommendation, and the desired outcome. Saline implants have a lower cost compared to silicone implants, and they are filled a the time of surgery, allowing for minor adjustments to be made to the size during surgery. However, there is a slightly greater risk of visible or palpable rippling with saline filled implants when compared with silicone gel-filled implants. In addition to the type of implant, there are different shapes and sizes available to accommodate different body types and desired outcomes. Your surgeon will work with you to select the best implant size and shape based on your body type, skin elasticity, and desired outcome. Most plastic surgeons today use round smooth implants and precise preoperative planning by an experienced plastic surgeon is the surest way to achieve a beautiful and natural appearing result. How to Prepare for Breast Augmentation: Before undergoing breast augmentation surgery, it is important to stop certain medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), that can increase bleeding risk. Quitting smoking and avoiding nicotine products for several weeks before and after surgery is also very important as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise are also important. Arranging for transportation to and from the surgical facility on the day of the procedure is a must, since you will not be able to drive yourself home after surgery. Preparing your home for your recovery, such as stocking up on food and necessary supplies, and arranging for help with household chores and caring for children or pets is very important and it is advisable to avoid certain activities such as driving for a week or two, lifting children or other heavy objects, laundry and vacuuming, and exercise for approximately4 weeks. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully The Surgery - Step by Step: Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and may take one to two hours to complete. The surgery generally involves the following steps:  Incision : The surgeon will make an incision in the predetermined location based on the type of implant, patient's anatomy, and desired outcome. Usually the incision is in the fold below the breast. The surgeon will take care to make the incision as small and inconspicuous as possible to minimize scarring. Implant Placement : The surgeon will create a pocket to insert the breast implant. The pocket can be created either under the breast tissue (subglandular or subfascial placement) or beneath the chest muscle (“submuscular” or “subpectoral” or dual plane” placement). The choice of implant placement will depend on the patient's anatomy, desired outcome, and surgeon's recommendation. The surgeon will then insert the implant into the pocket and adjust it for the desired position and symmetry. Closing the Incision : Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision with dissolvable sutures and glue or surgical tape. The incision will be covered with a sterile dressing or surgical bra to protect the incision site and showering is permitted the next day. Healing After Breast Augmentation: After the surgery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the breasts for several days to weeks. Most Patients fee 75% recovered within 7-10 days and 95% recovered by 4 weeks. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. It is important to follow the surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully, which may include: Rest and Recovery : Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects for several weeks after the surgery. Patients may also be required to wear a surgical bra to support the breasts and aid in healing. Follow-up appointments : Patients will be scheduled for follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and remove any sutures. Scar Management : Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after surgery. The surgeon may provide instructions on scar management, including massage and the use of silicone sheets or gels. Most patients heal their scars beautifully but it may take up to twelve months for the scar to reach its final appearance. Potential Complications Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation surgery carries a risk of potential complications and dangers. Some of the risks associated with breast augmentation surgery include infection, bleeding, scarring, and anesthesia complications. Additionally, there is a risk of implant rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant). In rare cases, breast implants can also cause autoimmune or connective tissue diseases. It's important for patients to understand the potential risks and complications associated with breast augmentation surgery and to discuss them with their surgeon during the consultation phase. Patients should also follow the surgeon's instructions carefully during the post-operative period and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise. Overall, while the risks associated with breast augmentation surgery are relatively low, patients should be aware of them and weigh them against the potential benefits of the procedure. How Long Will Your Implants Last? Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices and will require replacement at some point. The lifespan of breast implants will vary from patient to patient and will depend on several factors, including the type of implant, implant placement, and patient's anatomy. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends that patients undergo periodic MRI screenings to monitor implant integrity and detect any signs of implant rupture or leakage. Conclusion: Breast augmentation surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance the appearance of the breasts and improve a patient's self-esteem and confidence. The surgery involves the insertion of breast implants, and there are different types and sizes available to accommodate different body types and desired outcomes. Patients should prepare both physically and mentally before undergoing the surgery, and it is important to follow the surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a successful outcome. Although breast implants are not lifetime devices, they can provide long-lasting results with proper care and monitoring

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging drooping breasts. This procedure can help improve the appearance of the breasts, boost self-confidence, and alleviate physical discomfort associated with sagging breasts. In this article, we will explore what a breast lift is, who can benefit from this procedure, the types of procedures available, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery. What is a Breast Lift? A breast lift is a surgical procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging breasts, that may be due to the way a woman’s breasts developed from the start, or the result of one or more pregnancies, regardless of whether or not she breastfed her baby (-ies) . During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess skin, repositions the nipple/areola, and lifts the breast tissue to create a more youthful and uplifted appearance. The procedure can be performed on one or both breasts and may involve the use of implants to achieve the desired results. Reasons to Consider a Breast Lift Women may consider a breast lift for various reasons, including: Sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss Lack of breast volume or shape Nipples pointing downward or sagging below the breast crease Asymmetry or unevenness of the breasts Types of Breast Lift Procedures There are different types of breast lift procedures, and the choice of technique will depend on the extent of sagging and the desired results. The three main types of breast lift procedures are: Crescent Lift - This is a minor breast lift that involves making a small incision around the upper edge of the areola to remove a crescent-shaped piece of skin and tis technique is used to correct minor asymmetry in nipple position. Periareolar or "Donut" Lift - This type of breast lift involves making purely a circular incision around the edge of the areola (which is usually wider than desirable) to remove excess skin and slightly tighten the breast. Vertical or “Lollipop”or “Anchor” or “Inverted T" Lift - This type of breast lift involves making a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, usually with an extension into the crease or fold beneath the breast to remove excess skin and reshape the breast. The more sagging, the greater the amount of skin that may need to be removed, requiring this type of incision. How to Prepare for a Breast Lift Surgery Before undergoing a breast lift surgery, you will need to schedule a consultation with an expereinced board-certified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess your medical history, examine your breasts, and discuss the procedure and its potential risks and benefits. You may also be required to undergo a mammogram or breast imaging to ensure that your breast tissue is healthy. In the weeks leading up to the surgery, you will need to follow the surgeon's instructions, which may include: Stopping certain medications that can increase bleeding or interfere with anesthesia Quitting smoking to reduce the risk of complications Arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for a a day or two after surgery. Breast Lift Surgery: What to Expect The breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take between 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the extent of the surgery. During the surgery, the surgeon will make incisions, remove excess skin, reposition the nipples and often reduce the areolar diameter, and reshape the breast tissue. Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery After the surgery, you will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks to allow your breasts to heal. You will also need to wear a supportive bra to minimize swelling and discomfort. The surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for your incisions, and you will need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress. Risks and Complications Associated with Breast Lift Surgery Like any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery comes with a small risk of potential complications. Some of the risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, and rarely, anesthesia complications. It is essential to discuss these risks with your surgeon before the surgery and follow his or her instructions to reduce the likelihood of complications. Breast Lift Surgery Results The results of breast lift surgery are visible immediately, but it may take several weeks for the final results to become apparent as the breast skin relaxes. The breasts will be firmer, lifted, and have a more youthful appearance. The results are long-lasting, but the breast tissue will still age naturally over time, and the effects of gravity may cause the breasts to sag again. Breast Lift Surgery and Breastfeeding Breast lift surgery can possibly affect a woman's ability to breastfeed, depending on the technique used, and on the extent of the procedure. If the milk ducts or nerves are damaged during the surgery, it may reduce milk production or cause nipple sensitivity. Women who plan to have children in the future should discuss this with their surgeon before undergoing a breast lift.In general (but not always), if the breasts have sagged due to pregnancy and breast feeding, it is best to undergo breast lift surgery only after no more children are planned. However, if a young woman or adolescent developed droopy or sagging breasts from the beginning, she may well benefit for breast lift surgery even before having a family. The psychological benefits can be significant. Breast Lift Surgery and Breast Cancer Breast lift surgery does not increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Women who have a family history of breast cancer or are at high risk should discuss their options with their surgeon and undergo regular breast cancer screening. Breast Lift Surgery Costs The cost of breast lift surgery varies depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the location of the practice, and the extent of the surgery. This is generally considered a “cosmetic” procedure that is not covered by most insurance plans or kupot. The average cost of a breast lift surgery in Israel can range from NIS 10,000-NIS 50,000. Choosing a Breast Lift Surgeon Choosing the right plastic surgeon to perform your breast lift is crucial to achieving safe, beautiful and long lasting results. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast lift surgery. Review before-and-after photos of their previous patients and read reviews to get an idea of their reputation. Recovery Time After Breast Lift Surgery The recovery time after breast lift surgery can vary, depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual's healing. Most women can return to work and light activities within one to two weeks after the surgery. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Breast Lift Surgery and Scarring Breast lift surgery will leave some scarring, but the extent and visibility of the scars will depend on the type of procedure and the individual's healing process and her genetics. The scars may appear red, raised, or firm initially, but they should fade and flatten over time. Scarring can be minimized by following the surgeon's instructions and avoiding smoking and sun exposure during the healing process. Breast Lift Surgery and Implants Breast lift surgery can be combined with breast implants to increase breast volume and improve shape. This is mainly indicated with the patient is certain she wants to be larger, and not just lifted. The surgeon will help you choose the right implant type and size to achieve the desired results. Combining breast lift surgery with implants can increase the risk of complications, and sometimes can be performed in two separate stages. Discuss all of these options with your plastic surgeon. Conclusion A breast lift surgery can help improve the appearance of sagging breasts and boost self-confidence. It is essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast lift surgery and follow their instructions before, during, and after the procedure to achieve safe, beautiful and long lasting results. While the procedure includes a low risk of potential complications, the results are long-lasting and can provide a significant boost to a woman's self-esteem.