From a very early age, women are subjected to ideals regarding
size and shape of their breasts. Modern media – glossy magazines and movies - tell us how big and what shape they should be. Many women consider and eventually have breast implants in order to conform to these opinions but while there are advantages to having this done there are still some concerns and many questions that need answering.
Not all cosmetic surgery is carried out on women who simply want bigger breasts. Many face psychological problems because
size or shape of each breast is different. Breast cancer sufferers consider breast-rebuilding treatment to try and get their lives back on track.
Gone are
days where
only surgical procedure available for women was breast enlargements. There are numerous surgical procedures for various areas of
body although
breasts remain a firm favourite for women. You can now have breast augmentation, breast reconstruction, breast implants, a breast lift and a breast reduction.
You should always consider every view and get
full facts before you consider any surgery, least of all cosmetic surgery.
For most forms of breast implants a small incision of approximately 1.5 inches is made in
fold under
breast, around
areola or in
underarm. For saline implants, a pocket is then created and
implant inserted. Once inserted
implant is then inflated with
saline solution.
More information about
surgery.
The procedure itself usually takes between an hour and two hours and dressing and bandaging is worn for
proceeding 24 to 48 hours. After this a support bra is worn for around 3 weeks although patients can normally be up and moving within 24 hours of
operation. It is advised that strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for about a month after surgery.
You will suffer bruising and swelling around
breasts that should disappear with time, and also a firmness in
breasts that will disappear with time. You will more than likely feel a little discomfort for several days following
procedure; if this discomfort continues you should consult
clinic where you underwent
operation.
What are
possible side effects of breast implant surgery?
Current research shows no heightened risk of systemic disease or breast cancer in patients, however, as with all surgery there are risks attached. Unfavourable scarring may occur leaving nasty marks around
incision area or around
implant. Infection may occur as with any surgery. Bleeding, excessive firmness, rippling, deflation, asymmetry and a change in nipple sensation may also be encountered but breast augmentation has
highest satisfaction rate of any cosmetic surgery.