Breast Augmentation F.A.Q.
Will I have scars? If so, where will they be?
The incision can be made under the breast, under the arm, or around the areola, where scarring is least visible.
Can I still wear an underwire bra?
It was traditionally taught underwire bras could potentially injure the implant; however, common sense indicates that if the underwire bra does not hurt the overlying skin there is no reason to think it would ever hurt the underlying implant. Therefore, there is no restriction on wearing underwire bras.
How long will I need to be off work?
This depends greatly upon the type of work you do as well as placement of the breast implants. In general, most patients who have a desk job can be back at work in three days whereas a woman who has to lift heavy things such as perhaps a nurse in a hospital or a flight attendant may need to wait seven days to return to work.
What type of anesthesia will be used?
General anesthesia performed by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist or a Doctor specializing in anesthesiology.
I'm not sure what size would be appropriate for me. How do I decide?
You and the doctor should make this decision together based on your size preference and what best suits your body.
Will I still be able to breastfeed?
Although there is no guarantee, the majority of women having breast augmentation prior to the birth of their last child do still breastfeed. When the patient selects the incision underneath the breast or under the arm, 95% of the breast gland as a whole is not interrupted in any manner, so there would be no influence on the ability to breastfeed.
I've heard implants can be placed behind or in front of the muscle. How is this decision made?
This is best decided with the help of your doctor. It depends upon the amount of breast tissue you presently have as well as other factors particular to your body.
I work out three times a week. How long before I can resume exercise?
Strenuous exercise such as aerobics should be postponed for two weeks. High impact sports such as skiing or water skiing should be postponed four to six weeks. If the implants are placed under the muscle no chest muscle exercises such as bench press or pushups should be allowed for two months.
Is the procedure expensive?
The cost varies only by the type of implant used. Traditional round implants are slightly less expensive than the newer "teardrop" type.
