Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Right For Me?
Before undergoing breast augmentation, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you make an informed decision and achieve the best possible outcome.
- Personal Goals & Expectations: Having realistic expectations is key. Breast augmentation can address your appearance but may not address underlying concerns or completely transform your life.
- Implant Type & Size: There are various implant options, including round or anatomical shapes and smooth or textured surfaces. Each has its advantages, so it’s important to discuss the pros and cons with Dr. Mistry to determine the best choice for your goals and lifestyle.
- Surgical Incision & Placement Options: Different incision techniques and implant placements are available. Implants can be placed either subglandular (above the chest muscle) or submuscular (under the chest muscle), depending on your anatomy and preferences. Dr. Mistry will guide you in choosing the most suitable approach.
- Health Considerations: Your overall health and medical history play a crucial role in your surgical suitability. Any pre-existing conditions, medications, allergies, or past surgeries should be discussed with Dr. Mistry. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other breast-related concerns, this should also be addressed.
- The 14-Point Plan: Ask your surgeon if they follow the 14-Point Plan, a protocol designed to reduce bacterial contamination during breast implant surgery. Dr. Mistry follows this plan, which incorporates multiple strategies to minimise bacterial presence on the implant surface.
The Procedure
The procedure involves the placement of breast implants—typically made of a silicone outer shell with a cohesive gel interior—either under the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle to achieve the desired shape and size. Dr. Mistry works closely with each patient to select the most suitable implant type and size, considering their individual goals, body proportions, and existing breast tissue.
Possible Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications. Dr. Mistry and his team prioritise patient safety and will discuss these factors thoroughly during your consultation. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision.
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implants. Dr. Mistry will prescribe antibiotics and provide detailed postoperative care instructions to minimise this risk.
- Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue (capsule) may form around the implant, causing it to harden and potentially distort the breast shape. In some cases, revision surgery may be needed.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: While modern implants are designed for durability, rupture or leakage can still occur over time. Saline implants are safely absorbed by the body, but silicone gel implants may require surgical removal or replacement.
- Anaesthesia Complications: Though anaesthesia is generally safe, there are potential risks. Dr. Mistry works with experienced anaesthesiologists to ensure patient safety during the procedure.
- Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation can occur following breast augmentation.
- Asymmetry: While breast augmentation can improve symmetry, perfect symmetry cannot always be guaranteed, as breast differences may still exist.
- Delayed Wound Healing: In some cases, incision sites may take longer to heal, requiring additional care.
- Scarring: While advanced surgical techniques are used to minimise scarring, all surgical procedures result in some degree of scarring.
- Seroma or Haematoma: Fluid (seroma) or blood (haematoma) may collect around the surgical site, sometimes requiring drainage.
- BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma): This rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma has been linked to certain textured implants. While rare, it is important to understand the risks.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some individuals report symptoms such as joint and muscle pain, fatigue, memory issues, migraines, and skin problems, which they attribute to breast implants. While ongoing research is being conducted, it is important to be aware of this potential concern.
Dr. Mistry is committed to patient education and will discuss all risks, ensuring you have the information needed to make an informed choice. Note: Returning to the operating room (theatre) is generally a decision made by your surgeon, Dr. Mistry, and will be based on a thorough assessment of the complication and the best course of action to resolve it.
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Mistry after surgery are essential, and it’s important to promptly report any unusual symptoms or concerns to minimise the risk of complications that may require further surgical intervention.
After Surgery Recovery
Dr. Mistry and his team will provide detailed postoperative instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery and optimal results. Here are key aspects of the recovery process:
- Rest and Recuperation: Plan for rest during the first few days after surgery. Arrange for assistance with daily activities. Avoid strenuous physical activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for the initial weeks to prevent strain on healing tissues.
- Pain Management: Some discomfort and soreness are normal after surgery. Dr. Mistry will prescribe pain medications to manage any discomfort. Follow dosage instructions carefully and consult the medical team before using over-the-counter medications.
- Compression Garments: You may be instructed to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to support your breasts during the early healing phase. This helps minimise swelling and promotes proper healing.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after breast augmentation and will gradually subside. Elevating your upper body while resting can help reduce swelling. Staying hydrated and avoiding salty foods may also assist in managing these symptoms.
- Restrictions on Activities: Avoid activities that could strain your incisions or breasts, such as heavy lifting, reaching overhead, or vigorous exercise.
Dr. Mistry will provide specific guidelines on when it’s safe to resume normal activities.
Additional Considerations
To enhance healing and reduce complications, avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Emotional well-being is also important, so seek support from loved ones or support groups if needed.
Recovery times vary, so be patient with the healing process and practice self-care to support your overall well-being. Following Dr. Mistry’s postoperative instructions carefully will help ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible results.
If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our medical team—we are here to support you every step of the way.