BREAST SURGERY FAQs

The breasts are the most common site of cosmetic surgery around the world. For many women, the way they feel about their bodies and their femininity is directly linked to the size and shape of their breasts, and their personal body image can be dramatically altered following breast enhancement surgery – be it in the form of augmentation, lift or reduction.

Q&A TIME

How long does the procedure take? Enlargement takes between and hour and a half to two hours. A reduction takes two to four hours.

What types of implants can I choose from? The choices range from silicone to saline and from rough to smooth textures? When deciding take into account your body type and also choose a surgeon who has sufficient experience in inserting the type of implant you decide on. Any family history of breast cancer should also be born in mind.

Is the implant placed under or above the muscle? Surgeons vary in their opinion on which option gives a more natural result. Small-breasted women who are very thin are usually advised to have the implant inserted under the muscle to cover the implant. Scars can be hidden in the armpit, at the lower border of the areola, or in the crease beneath the breast. An inflatable implant can also be pulled through an incision in the tummy button but many surgeons believe this method is not consistently precise and accurate enough.

Where, and how big, will the scar be? The main sites for scars are in the armpit, under the areola or in the crease under the breast. Scars will vary depending on the severity of the natural droop and how much breast tissue is removed. Women with larger breasts may also require an additional cut across the breast crease. Scars improve over the course of the two years following surgery.

What happens to the nipple? It is usually necessary that the nipple be transposed higher on the breast, while still remaining attached to the gland. This ensures a natural look while the sensation and functions of the nipple are maintained.

How Much Will It Hurt? Be prepared for between 2 and 3 days of acute pain following augmentation. Bandages are removed after 5 days. For two weeks following surgery you may not drive or lift your arms above waist. With a reduction, pain varies in the first week from moderate to severe depending on the individual patient. Some women report pain in the breast for some months, but by the end of a year this should have decreased. Loss of sensation is also commonly reported for the first 6 months to a year.

How Long Will the Effects Last? Implants look good for up to 15 years, but as the body ages the results are less pleasing. The results of breast are permanent.

What can go wrong? The main risk for breast augmentation is the possibility ‘encapsulation’. This occurs when scar tissue grows around the implant and results in hardening. There are further the risks of the implant breaking and / or leaking, or a ripple effect which causes an uneven silhouette. For patients undergoing reduction, the risks to consider include losing the nipple, numbness and severe scarring.