Breast Implant

During Breast Implant surgery, an implant is inserted inside the chest such that the breast would achieve the desired shape. People who want breast implants should have at least 18 years of age because breasts will also grow in late adolescence and early twenties. The most common types of breast implants include saline-filled and silicone implants. Of course, both of these have a silicone body, but their content is different.

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. They’re inserted empty and then filled once they’re in place. Silicone implants are pre-filled with silicone gel a thick, sticky fluid that closely mimics the feel of human fat. Most women believe that silicone breast implants look and feel more like natural breast tissue. Many women are more satisfied with silicone implants because they offer a more natural appearance compared to their saline counterparts.

Recovery from Breast Implant Surgery

There may be a feeling of tiredness and pain for a few weeks after surgery; the doctor will prescribe medications for controlling this pain. Return to normal activities may take up to 6 weeks or more. It should be noted that during this period the patient should not put himself under great pressure.

Related Preoperative Evaluations

The patient will talk with his doctor about the options before the surgery; these options include the form, size, and location of the prosthesis. It may also be necessary for her to perform various tests.

Before, During and After Breast Implant Surgery

Before the Procedure

The patient should avoid aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs that can lead to increased bleeding from the 2 weeks before surgery.

During the Procedure

It is also necessary to avoid smoking and eating and drink before surgery; the first one is because it delayed the recovery process, and the second one is because it can cause a problem for anesthesia. The surgeon makes one large main incision to place the prosthesis to the chest. The prosthesis can be inserted through the armpit, under the breast, and through the incision into the exterior of the nipple, and all of these options will cause the least possible scarring.

The location of the incision and insertion of the prosthesis depends on the size of the prosthesis and varies from person to person. The prosthesis can be placed under the breast tissue or muscle. After placement of the prosthesis, the incision site is stitched. This surgery is usually performed under the combination of general and local anesthesia. In some cases, the person is placed under local anesthesia and a sedative is injected.

This surgery usually lasts about 1 hour; however, in more complicated cases (such as implanting a breast prosthesis along with a breast lift), surgery time may be increased.

After the Procedure

In the first week after surgery, the patient should avoid sleeping on the abdomen and soaking the wounds. It is recommended to avoid exercising and lifting heavy objects up to 4 weeks after surgery. The surgeon may ask the patient to wear a special type of bra for the first few months after surgery.

Important Notes

Possible Complications

• The outlet of the prosthesis fluid
• Visual impairment due to the formation of constrictive capsules
• Back pain
• Remaining scarring
• Infection

Breast Implant Surgery is Recommended For

• People whose breasts are not properly formed
• People who want bigger breasts
• People who have a mastectomy and now need to rebuild their chest
• Men who are changing sex

Number of Days in Hospital

Some people may need to be admitted to the hospital, but in many cases, there is no need for hospitalization.