The Surprising Truth About Breast Surgery
Cosmetic breast surgery is one of the most common and popular forms of plastic surgery. Millions of women (and some men) will elect to have this procedure done for a variety of reasons. Of course, the extent of the surgery and its results will depend upon the doctor in question and the needs of the individual, in fact, the cost of this type of surgery has lowered during the last few decades. Currently, the average price is approximately six thousand US dollars.
Why Choose Cosmetic Breast Surgery?
In general, women will opt for this procedure in order to enhance the appearance of their breasts. It is important to note that this may be intended to either increase or decrease their overall size. With age, breasts can also begin to sag. This is often the case after a pregnancy. As they may not return to their normal shape naturally, cosmetic procedures will be used to augment their overall size and shape.
However, cosmetic surgery may also be required if a woman has been involved in an accident or has undergone surgery. This can be seen in those who have a breast (or both) reconstructed after breast cancer. There are occasions when men can choose to have their pectoral region altered; mainly in the case of gynecomastia (benign enlargement of male breast tissue).
How Breast Surgery Works and the Different Types
While a breast reduction is associated with making a small incision (either around the nipple or underneath the immediate circumference of the breast) and removing excess fat, breast augmentation requires implants of artificial means or natural fat from the woman's body. Similar procedures are used in this case. Again, an incision is made and the implant (saline is very common in modern times) is inserted underneath the tissue. This allows the breast to achieve a more natural appearance. Scientifically known as augmentation mammaplasty, these procedures have become less invasive over the years. While there will be little residual scarring, incisions are nonetheless required.
Risk Factors
As with any surgically invasive procedure, the most prevalent risk is an infection around the area affected. However, there are other side effects (although rare) that may sometimes occur as a result of this operation. These can include:
- Risks from the administration of anesthetic.
- In some cases, profuse bleeding during or after the surgery.
- Sensation differences (in the nipples or the entire breast) as a result of nerve damage.
- Visible scarring.
- A misalignment of the implant itself (often associated with poorly trained plastic surgeons).
Other effects may sometimes include leakage of the implant, persistent pain, an accumulation of fluid within the breast or wrinkling of the skin directly over the breast.
Things to Keep in Mind After the Procedure
The most important aspect to consider is to make certain that the surgical area remains clean. This will dramatically reduce the chances of post-operative infection. In addition, recovery times will last for a few weeks. However, the majority of pain and swelling should subside within the first few days.
Some techniques can help to speed recovery times as well. The doctor may advise the use of a sports bra to add extra support (and to avoid stretching the stitched incisions). It is wise to stay away from swimming or complete water immersion, as contaminants may affect the healing wounds. Strenuous exercise should be curtailed until after the pain subsides and a cold compress is recommended to reduce swelling.
From a broad standpoint and by following the recommended post-operative tips, cosmetic breast surgery is highly effective at achieving the overall desired results.