Breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty, is surgery to increase breast size and involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. Most women see it as a way to feel more confident, but for some others, it is a part of rebuilding the breast for various conditions. If you are considering this breast surgery in London, the best would be to talk to a breast surgeon to make sure that you understand the possible risks involved, complications, and aftercare.
How To Prepare Yourself?
- First, determine your preferences for the feel, size, and appearance of your breast. The breast surgeon may describe specific types of implants like smooth, textured, round, teardrop-shaped, saline, or silicone, as well as different surgical techniques. So make sure to carefully review the information, like patient information from the manufacturer or the implant you will be getting, and keep copies of your records.
- Before you undergo breast surgery in London, know that breast implants won’t prevent your breasts from sagging. However, your surgeon will recommend a breast lift in addition to the augmentation procedure in order to correct the sagging breasts. Also, these breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, as the average lifespan is about ten years. Remember that your breasts will continue to age, and their appearance may change depending on factors like weight gain or loss. There is also a possibility for an impure rupture.
- After a breast augmentation, mammograms will get more complicated. Breast implants and routine mammograms will require additional and specialized views. Moreover, the most important thing to know is that breast implants can hamper breastfeeding. While this may not be a problem for some women, breastfeeding could be challenging for others.
- Keep in mind that insurance does not cover breast implants unless it is medically necessary, like in cases such as after a mastectomy for breast cancer. So it would help if you were financially prepared to handle the expenses that come with the surgery, including future imaging tests. Moreover, you may also need additional surgery after the implant removal, thus adding to the cost. If someday you decide for an implant removal, you may need a breast lift or other surgery to restore your breasts’ appearance.
- You will also be required to undergo screening for silicone implant rupture since the FDA recommends routine monitoring of the implants, by a breast MRI, 5-6 years after the placement. This is needed to identify any implant rupture. Ultrasound is another screening method you can opt for, but only if you have any symptoms. You may talk to your surgeon about the imaging needed for routine monitoring.
- You might also need a baseline mammogram before your surgery, and your doctor may also adjust certain medications before the surgery as it is important to avoid certain drugs like aspirin and others that increase bleeding. You will also be asked to stop smoking for some time, mostly four to six weeks, before and after the surgery.
To Conclude
Remember that breast augmentation can change the shape and size of your breasts. Although the surgery may improve your body image and self-esteem, it is better that you keep your expectations lower and not expect perfection.
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