Breast augmentation is a plastic surgery procedure wherein the woman
, or in some cases, the man, undergoes an operation to improve the appearance of his or her chest. In almost all cases, a breast implant is used to augment the chest and to achieve the desired results. Qualified surgeons who specialize in this aspect of plastic surgery are usually the ones who perform the operation.
It is not advisable to go to doctors who are not certified or qualified since there are risks involved with this procedure. Implants are special sacs filled with either saline or silicone and shaped in such as way that they resemble breasts. These are inserted in strategic places to emphasize and enlarge the appearance of the chest.
The Procedure
The operation entails making incisions in areas which can accommodate the insertion of the sacs. Depending on what type of implants will be used for the breast augmentation, the duration of the operation can last up to several hours. One type of implant is to be filled only when it is already inside the body while another is already filled as it is inserted into the body. The surgeon may make recommendations to the patient regarding what type of implant is most suitable for her or him. The patient may also have some preferences which the doctor will have to consider.
Recovery
This duration is the time when the patient recovers from breast augmentation. Immediately after the operation, the patient is settled in the recovery room to be monitored until she or he is conscious and stable. In many cases, the patient may still be a bit confused and not so lucid immediately after the procedure. It is advisable to regain some sense before being brought out of the recovery room. Ice packs are sometimes placed on the chest area to help minimize swelling. This can contribute to the cold feeling that most patients experience in the recovery room after the surgery. Shivering may occur due to the ice packs or due to the medications which has been given to the individual.
A nurse should be at hand to monitor the patient's post-operative reactions. Nausea is another common occurrence after a major operation. General anesthesia usually brings this on and some people may throw up. This is nothing to be worried about. After the patient is lucid enough, she or he may be brought home or up to the room. It is not advisable for her to drive during this time so those who have undergone the surgery should make arrangements with someone to bring them home.
Drains are sometimes placed in the incisions to help facilitate the drainage of the wounds. These may be taken out after a few days when there is no more fluid draining from them. When they are taken out, care for the incisions will be the same. An infection is one risk that can occur which is why the surgeon will prescribe an antibiotic to combat any possibility of this happening. Follow the prescription duration and strength to avoid complications after the breast augmentation operation.