Before the breast enlargement surgery

Some tests may be conducted to detect the breast abnormality. The surgeon may also ask the patient to stop eating or drinking anything 24 hours before the surgery. A patient should also carry some loose clothing like a loose-fitting bra without underwire. A breast specialist doctor will discuss the breast implant procedure in detail, the estimated duration of the surgery along with the recovery process.

What a breast enlargement involves

Breast implant surgery is carried out under general anesthetic.

The operation involves:

• making a cut (incision) in the skin next to or below the breast

• positioning the implant– either between your breast tissue and chest muscle, or behind your chest muscle (as discussed during your consultation)

• stitching the incisionand covering it with a dressing

The operation takes between 60 and 90 minutes.

You may be able to go home the same day, but may need to stay in hospital overnight if the operation was scheduled late in the day.

You'll be given pain relief if you experience any discomfort afterwards.

 

After the surgery

The patient’s breast will be wrapped in gauze or a surgical bra. The scars of a breast enlargement surgery may fade in two or three months, depending on the skin type of the patient.

Following the surgery, some pain, swelling and tenderness are normal, which may last for a month or longer, but should go away with time. For most women, scars will turn into thin lines over the time. The surgeon may prescribe some medications to relieve pain and nausea and will also discuss ways to take care of the surgical area.

At the surgeon’s recommendation, a patient is likely to return to work within a few weeks. However, it is strongly advised to avoid any strenuous activities that could increase blood pressure and pulse rate, for a minimum of two weeks. Be sure to ask the surgeon about a schedule for follow-up visits along with the precautions which need to be taken.