Preparing for breast augmentation is both exciting and overwhelming. Many patients who choose to have breast augmentation surgery consider the procedure for months or even years before finally deciding it’s time to go for it.
At Rios Center for Plastic Surgery in Edinburg, TX, we know how big of a decision breast surgery is. We work closely with our patients throughout their surgery preparation and recovery to make sure that every aspect of the procedure is as comfortable and successful as possible.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
There are several types of breast surgery, and each accomplishes a different goal. Breast augmentation enhances the shape and size of your breasts to meet your aesthetic goals and give symmetry to your profile.
Breast augmentation surgery typically uses breast implants to add volume. However, patients who hope to avoid implants can choose a fat transfer technique instead. In breast augmentation with fat transfer, the surgeon harvests fat from another part of your body and implants it in the breasts to create more volume.
The breast augmentation method you choose depends on your goals, concerns, and the guidance you receive during your consultation with our surgical team.
Secrets to Successful Breast Augmentation
Regardless of the type of breast augmentation you choose, there are tips and tricks to ensure that you love your results.
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The Right Surgeon Matters
The best results come from the best surgeons. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is critical, as it shows that the physician has extensive training in facial and body procedures, can prevent and handle emergencies, and possesses proven aesthetic and technical skills.
A board-certified plastic surgeon must complete at least five years of surgical training, including a residency focusing on plastic surgery. They also need to pass a written and oral exam specific to plastic surgery.
Once certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a surgeon must maintain certification through continuing education, adhere to a strict code of ethics, and operate only in accredited facilities.
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Choosing the Right Size and Shape Is Complex
Every woman’s body is unique. Choosing the breast implants that will look best depends on your anatomy and your ultimate goals. Most women prefer implants that are proportional to their figures.
When you schedule your breast augmentation consultation, one of the topics we’ll cover is sizing. At this point, we’ll measure your breasts and frame and discuss your ideal projection, or how far the breasts project forward from your chest.
During this consultation, you’ll compare breast implants of varying shapes and sizes, try on breast implant sizers, and handle silicone and saline implants to compare how they feel. It’s important to evaluate your implants and how they look and feel on your body. What worked for someone else may not be the right choice for you.
While our experts can help guide your choices regarding sizing, the best implant for you is the one that meets all of your aesthetic goals and suits your lifestyle.
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Optimizing Your Health Before Surgery Is Essential
The best way to prepare for breast augmentation surgery is by prioritizing your health so you heal faster and more completely.
Before surgery, you must stop smoking and vaping. Smokers are more likely to experience breathing problems during or after surgery. Additionally, smoking affects the blood’s ability to flow and carry oxygen throughout the body. Reduced blood flow slows healing and increases the chances of your incisions becoming infected.
You can also prepare for surgery by eating a nutritious diet and exercising. Processed foods and those high in sugar can elevate inflammation and slow recovery. By contrast, eating healthy fats, protein, and whole-grain carbohydrates promotes healing.
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You Should Take Recovery Seriously
Taking the time to recover properly is as important as having the procedure. You can prepare for your recovery before your operation by becoming acclimated to sleeping on your back and gathering supplies you’ll need after your breast augmentation surgery.
These supplies include:
- Wet wipes
- Extra pillows
- Light, healthy meals
- Recovery bras
- A pick-up tool
- Entertainment
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes
- Prescription medication and supplements
In the first few days of recovery, you’ll want the help of a friend or family member as you may feel unsteady and low on energy.
In addition, as you begin to feel better, you may want to jump back into your exercise routine and regular activities. Following our post-surgical guidelines is critical to recovering fully and avoiding complications. If you’re not sure whether an activity is safe, you can call our office to check.
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Drop and Fluff Before Shopping
Learning how to dress for your new shape is one of the most exciting parts of embracing your new curves. However, your new breasts will change in form as part of your recovery, going through the infamous “dropping and fluffing” process that will affect how new bras and form-fitting clothes look.
“Dropping and fluffing” refers to the process of breast implants settling into place. Immediately after surgery, your implants sit higher in your breasts and can be awkwardly shaped.
However, once the initial swelling of surgery subsides, the muscles in the breasts begin to relax, and the implants slowly settle and soften, slightly expanding as they adjust into their pockets. The entire process of dropping and fluffing can take up to six months.
Learn More About Breast Augmentation
If you’ve considered breast augmentation surgery, scheduling a consultation with Rios Center for Plastic Surgery in Edinburg, TX, will give you an opportunity to ask questions and discover if breast surgery is right for you. Contact our team via our website or call us directly and make an appointment today.
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