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.
