What you need to know before changing the size of your chest

What you need to know before changing the size of your chest

I like to go up or down a cup size - or more. You want implants for more curves, or take a little pressure on the back with breast reduction surgery.

It sounds good. But you want to know what to expect, including how these changes will be maintained over time.

"Breast augmentation can change the lives of many women," says Juliana Hansen, MD, professor and head of plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Oregon Health and Sciences. "But you have to make an informed decision over the long term. "

1. Implants do not last forever.

Breast enlargement is not a once-and-done. It is the first thing that Nolan S. Karp Plastic Surgeon, MD, tells women who come to him for implants.

"Most companies insure their implants for 10 years, although rarely need to be replaced so often," Karp says. "I tell my patients that implants usually last at least 15 years. So depending on your age, you usually have to plan a few surgeries.

Plan to schedule an annual exam with your plastic surgeon to ensure that their implants are strong and intact.

2. But breast reduction usually lasts.

The duration of the results depends on your breasts.

There are three types of breast tissue: fatty, fibrous and glandular. It is very unlikely to develop more fibrous or glandular tissue after surgery.

"I probably did over 2000 breast reduction surgeries, and 99% of the time, the tissue does not grow," Karp says.

There is a great exception. If gaining weight after surgery, could develop fat tissue in their breasts. This is why it is ideal for breast reduction surgery when their weight is stable, says Hansen.

3. There are different types of breast implants.

Some women still receive saline solution, your surgeon puts his chest empty and then filled with sterile saline water. But many others now receive silicone implants, which are pre-filled with silicone gel.

There are also different types of silicone implants. Some are sweet. Others are "stable form". Some people call these implants "gummy bears" because they keep their shape even if the shell is broken. Stable fit implants are more comprehensive at the bottom, which may seem more natural. But unlike the round, they can distort the natural shape of the breast if they turn.

What type should I choose? "Your surgeon will examine your anatomy and help you decide what type is right for you," Karp says.

4. There are different techniques.

To insert the implant, the surgeon makes a unique cut in one of three places:

In the fold under your chest

Under the arm

Around your nipple

The type of cut you choose depends on the type of implant you get, your anatomy and your personal preferences. The surgeon then close the cup with dots and bandaged.

"You have scars with three incisions, but we try to hide the scars under the chest in the fold of the armpit or right where the dark colored skin around the nipple meets the skin of your chest. It will not be so visible, "says Karp.

With breast reduction, the surgeon typically makes a cut around the areola of a circle, a keyhole, or upside down T-shaped pattern. Although the cutting lines are permanent, fade over time .

5. count Grades.

"It is very important that your surgeon is certified in plastic surgery," says Hansen. "Many doctors want to undergo breast surgery, but this is not his specialty. "

If you choose to set up a consultation, ask your doctor if you are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. It requires at least 5 years of training as a surgeon, including at least 3 years dedicated specifically to plastic surgery.

Also ask how many years of plastic surgery training the surgeon has achieved.

6. Your life should return to normal very quickly.

If you get breast augmentation, you can usually go home the same day.

"It's very rare that an implantation procedure is done for aesthetic purposes or an overnight stay," Hansen said.

Plan ahead for someone to take you home after surgery and stay with you for at least 1 night. Your breasts may feel stiff or hurt for up to 5 days and should ignore physical activity for a few weeks.

After breast reduction surgery, your doctor may ask you to wear an elastic bandage or a special bra to minimize swelling. You can also place a temporary tube under the skin to drain blood or fluid.

If you choose to breastfeed after surgery for breast augmentation, "there is no reason why one could not," says Hansen. But breast reduction can affect your ability to breastfeed, so talk to your doctor if you are planning to get sick.