Adjusting To Life With Larger Breasts
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size, volume, symmetry, and appearance of breasts using saline or silicone implants. Healing after breast augmentation will take about four to six weeks, but the final result of your surgery may not be apparent for a couple of months.
How You Might Feel Different
Weight
The weight of each implant is dependent on the size you have chosen, but an average implant will likely only add ½ to ¾ of a pound of weight. It is not a significant amount, but some women report feeling extra weight in the chest. Your implants should not make you feel heavier or uncomfortable at all but if you do, some simple stretches and back-strengthening exercises (after healing) might give you some additional support.
Projection
Immediately following surgery and for several weeks after, your breasts will likely feel like they are sitting very high and maybe even projecting out further than you were expecting. This is a totally normal outcome after breast augmentation. As your breasts heal, swelling will subside and your implants will “drop” and settle into a more natural position. Depending on the shape of your implants (round or teardrop), implant position (in front of or behind the muscle), and your own physiology, this could take up to six weeks or even longer.
Sleep
If you were previously a stomach sleeper, you may find it hard to get comfortable in bed after breast augmentation surgery. Even side sleepers may find that larger breasts are impacting their ability to settle in for sleep. Lying on your back is the recommended sleeping position, especially while recovering, and back sleeping will help you maintain the results of your surgery over time. You may find that supporting yourself with extra pillows will reduce tossing and turning, and help you get comfortable and relax into a peaceful sleep.
Breast Care
Your new breasts may look and feel great, but breast health after augmentation mammoplasty is just as important as ever. You should continue to be aware of any changes in your breasts and report these to your doctor. You should also continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations for mammograms. Periodic screenings for women with implants can help identify a rupture as well as give your physician insight into your overall breast health.
Edmonton’s Choice For Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a safe and effective way for women to enhance the appearance, lift, symmetry, and balance of their breasts with implants. With the exception of a larger bust, life will return to normal after the recovery process is done. Be prepared with strategies to accommodate for these minor adjustments after surgery and make the most informed decision about your choice for breast enhancement.
If you are considering breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift surgery, the team at Alberta Plastic Surgery can guide you in exploring your options for breast surgery. Book your complimentary consultation today.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified and top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta, and is highly skilled in cosmetic plastic surgery and other non-surgical rejuvenating cosmetic procedures. Dr. Ladak is a fully qualified Fellow of the Royal Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons and his team is committed to providing patients with the facts and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at 1-780-407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQ
Q: What type of implants should I choose?
A: There are several different implant types for you to choose from. Your surgeon will be able to help you determine the right choice for you. Book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ladak to discuss your options for implants and what outcomes you hope to achieve from surgery.
Q: When will I be able to see the final results after my breast augmentation?
A: How soon you will be able to see the optimal results after your breast augmentation surgery will depend on the type of implants, where your implants were placed (under or over your chest muscles), your body type, and your personal healing journey. It will usually be a couple of months before you will see the final results.
Q: What kind of scars will I have after breast augmentation?
A: The type of scars you will have is dependent on the technique your plastic surgeon opts for in your breast mammoplasty surgery. Most scarring is undetectable within your areola or your breast fold and other scars will be easily hidden under a bra or bathing suit. Follow your doctor's post-surgical care instructions to heal well and minimize scarring.
