Breast Augmentation
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Women who choose to have breast augmentation surgery may do so to improve their self-image. Some may feel dissatisfied because their breasts never developed to a size that meets their expectations.
Others want to bring balance to a breast that is somewhat smaller than the other. Often, women want the procedure to restore their natural breast volume, which may have decreased as a result of pregnancy, weight loss or aging.
Breast Augmentation Considerations
During your Breast Augmentation consultation with Dr. Joanne Lopes, she will answer questions you may have about the procedure and will discuss any safety concerns related to the surgery.
Breast Augmentation Video
lick on the photo box below to view this informative, procedural presentation including an introduction, an overview with illustrations indicating incisions and how the procedure is performed, how best to prepare and what to to expect, and how to take care of yourself after the procedure.
Patients for Life
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Any one of the following conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for breast augmentation:
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too small
- Weight loss has changed the size and shape of your breasts
- Dresses that fit well around your hips are often too large at the bustline
- One breast is noticeably smaller than the other
- You feel self-conscious wearing a swimsuit or form-fitting top
- After having children, your breasts are smaller and have lost their firmness
- You are in a healthy mental space to accept how the procedure will change your appearance
- You are at least 18 years old for saline implants or at least 22 years old for silicone implants
However, anyone with the conditions below might not be an ideal candidate for breast augmentation:
- You are suffering from an infection or a serious health condition
- You are pregnant or nursing
- You had an issue with your mammogram or are diagnosed with breast cancer
- You have unrealistic cosmetic goals from breast augmentation
If you’re like most women who have this procedure, you’ll be very pleased with the results of your breast augmentation. You will no longer need padded bras or other bust-enlarging undergarments. Your new, natural curves will let you wear a greater variety of fashions — even dresses with low-cut necklines and form-fitting tops. Many women find that their new figure gives them a greater sense of self-confidence — whether they’re on the beach or in the boardroom.
There are several “musts” for anyone considering breast augmentation. If you are a young woman, your breast development must be complete. You must also be emotionally mature and fully understand your own motivations for wanting the procedure. Last, but not least, you must have realistic expectations, knowing that the procedure can bring improvement, but not perfection.
THE BREAST AUGMENTATION CONSULTATION
When you schedule a breast augmentation consultation, expect to discuss why you want the procedure and what your desired results are. You will also talk about your medical history, drug allergies, current medications, and use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco. Dr. Lopes will also ask about your family’s history of breast cancer.
During the consultation, your overall health, risk factors, and pre-existing medical conditions will be assessed. Dr. Lopes will check your breasts and take measurements and notes about their shape, skin condition, and the position of the areolas and nipples. Photos will be taken.
Dr. Lopes will discuss your breast augmentation options and the most viable treatment for you. She will also talk to you about the potential outcomes of the procedure and tell you how to minimize the chance of complications.
Prepare your questions before the consultation so that you’ll know exactly what to ask to have a better understanding of breast augmentation surgery.
The Procedure
Before your breast augmentation, you will be administered general anesthesia. Then, Dr. Lopes will make a small incision under the breast, around the nipple, or in the armpit, and insert either saline or silicone implants into the area. After positioning the implants, Dr. Lopes will close the incisions and place bandages over them.
Recovery & Aftercare
After surgery, a small dressing and a surgical bra will be placed over your chest. Two small drains may be inserted into the area as well. Within a day or two after surgery, you should be able to get up and move around. Most of the discomfort that you feel can be controlled with prescribed medication.
You will return to our office for the dressing to be changed and the drains removed. You should avoid impact exercises and athletics during this time. Although everyone heals at a different rate, within a day you will be permitted to shower, and within a week you should be able to return to work.
You may also resume sexual relations (as long as the breasts are treated gently). Most of the swelling will subside after several weeks, and you’ll start to see your final result.
Although your breasts are not immune to the effects of weight fluctuations or aging, results should last for years.
Cost
The cost of this procedure depends on a few factors, like the type of implant you get, the length of the procedure, and other variables. If you have any questions about the price of this procedure, be sure to ask during your consultation with Dr. Lopes.
Set Up a Consultation Today
If you are interested in learning more about this procedure and/or think you are a good candidate for a breast augmentation, call our Virginia Beach office today at (757) 497 - 5400 for more information or to schedule your consultation with Dr. JoAnne Lopes.
Dr. Lopes is a highly acclaimed board-certified plastic surgeon who will be happy to answer any questions you may have about breast augmentation.
Call our office today at (757) 497 - 5400 for more information or to schedule your consultation with Dr. JoAnne Lopes.
Information provided by The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
