If you have recently considered getting breast implants, then you are probably wondering what is going to take place during and after your cosmetic procedure. While these operations are incredibly safe, you should still plan on recovering in bed for a little bit of time so that your body has plenty of time to heal. There are also a few things that you will need to do in the years following your procedure if you want to maintain the results for as long as possible. Here is a quick glimpse at what takes place during breast augmentation surgery and a few of the steps you must take if you want to enjoy long-term results.
Your Personalized Cosmetic Operation
Your surgeon is going to give you extensive pre-op instructions during your in-depth consultation, and those instructions must be followed as closely as possible. As a general rule, patients should try to maintain impeccable health before these operations if they want to avoid unnecessary side effects and enjoy a speedy recovery. Your surgeon will most likely suggest that you steer clear of all tobacco products, get plenty of rest, follow a clean diet, and continue to exercise. On the day of your procedure, you should plan on heading to the surgical center early so that you can double-check all of the paperwork and spend a little bit of time getting comfortable.
This type of surgery can usually be completed in one to two hours, but some operations last longer if extensive alterations must be made. Before your operation, you will be given a strong sedative or IV anesthetic that puts you to sleep. Your surgical team can then mark the treatment site and make two small incisions. The implants are going to be inserted through those incisions and placed in the breast cavities. After the implants are in the correct positions and the nearby tissue has been adjusted, the incisions will be sutured shut before a compression garment is wrapped around your chest to minimize swelling.
Immediately After Your Procedure
Every patient experiences a slightly different recovery, but you should plan on relaxing in bed for at least a few days following your operation. In the initial stages of your recovery, a loved one must be nearby so that they can help you with making meals and other everyday tasks. Once the initial side effects have begun to fade away, you should be able to move around on your own as long as you are careful. After the first week, the average patient can resume most light activities, but you are still going to be tender. In the following weeks, you will be able to slowly engage in more strenuous activities as long as the incisions and soft tissue are healing. By the sixth week, the average patient can resume exercising and all other activities.
Future Revisions
While breast implants are more durable than ever and often last for a decade or longer, there will most likely come a point when you need to have yours replaced or permanently removed. Breast revision is needed when implants are nearing the end of their lifespan or have become damaged. Some patients also have breast revision surgery carried out if they are unhappy with the results of their initial procedure. As a general rule, you should plan on having your implants professionally checked at least once every two years. You will also need to schedule an immediate appointment with your surgeon if your implants rupture or you notice any unusual sensations in your breasts.
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