Cosmetic surgeries have become very common in current times. Many women, as well as men, have chosen to go under the blade to alter their physical appearances. And speaking of cosmetic procedures, breast augmentation surgeries are by far the most widely performed procedures in the world (almost 3,00,000 a year in the USA alone).
But as fancy as the idea of a ‘boob job’ might seems on the surface, there are several complex steps to getting one.
With a plethora of plastic surgeons out there, one needs to find a specialist who isn’t just qualified, but understands their needs
1. After a review of one’s medical history, the patient and the doctor would have a discussion about what is desired, and of the various implant options, shapes and sizes that most are suitable.
This involves making a range of other decisions – From the type of implant to size and shape
2. One has two option in implants. The saline implant which feels watery, but is easily detectable upon rupture. And the silicone implant, which is viscous and feels much firmer, but a rupture would be discovered later and could potentially cause slight pain.
3. After choosing the ideal implant, the patient and surgeon discuss the details of the procedure, the required aftercare, and the risks and potential complications that come with breast implants.
The surgery itself is a short procedure with a minimum recovery time
4. On the day of the surgery, a routine series of pre-op examinations is followed by the patient being administered a general anaesthetic. The operation lasts for an average of one to two hours.
5. The incision is made in the fold under the breast or near the armpit and the implant selected by the patient is placed in a pocket either on front of or behind the pectoral muscle depending on various factors. Absorbable sutures are used to close the wound.
Mostly painless, the recovery involves a few basic precautions
6. Breast augmentation is usually a pain-free procedure and a patient rarely requires more than a post-op paracetamol or anti-inflammatory medication.
7. Surgeons recommend that impact activities like running be avoided for at least three weeks after the operation. Patients may also have to make a temporary shift from bras with underwire to softer sports bras for some time.
But the enhancement comes with its own risks and limitations – like follow-up surgeries, breast-feeding restrictions, and risk for diseases.
8. While light swelling and discomfort are normal post-op symptoms, increased swelling, pain, fever or redness should alert the patient to a possible infection and the surgeon should be contacted immediately.
9. Every patient needs to understand that implants are not lifelong devices. The longer a woman has them, the greater her risk for complications, so a majority of women undergo follow-up surgeries to either change their implants or correct complications every 8-10 years.
10. While it isn’t observed as commonly anymore, some women with augmented breasts have experienced connective tissue diseases, lactation difficulties or reproductive problems.
11. One might lose sensation in their nipples after a boob job. They will still respond to stimulation, but one may experience reduced nipple sensitivity post-procedure.
So regardless of whether you’ve ever considered getting a glorious new pair of breasts, or if someone you know is toying with the idea, it’s good to know exactly what one would be signing up for.
