Breast augmentation: Is it for me?
“Cover that bosom, girl. The flesh is weak, and unclean thoughts are difficult to control. Such sights as that can undermine the soul.” This quote from Molière’s Tartuffe shows the extent to which breasts have been a part of popular discussion in every age. Sometimes showcased, sometimes repressed, they have been the source of much debate. They have been corseted and liberated, and they still spark discussion today. For many women, they are a source of pride, and for good reason. Conversely, for other women, they may be a source of insecurity for various reasons. Many consider breast augmentation. It’s a controversial, even taboo subject at times, and some women do not dare to talk about it with their loved ones. Here is some information to help you weigh the pros and cons if you are considering this procedure.
What does the operation involve?
As its name indicates, breast augmentation aims to add volume to the bust by inserting implants. The surgery itself lasts less than two hours and is performed under general anaesthesia.
Since each patient’s shape is unique, the incision for inserting the implants will be made in a precise spot — around the areola, in the armpit or under the breast — in order for the scar to be as discreet as possible.
Before the operation
During the preoperative consultation, your surgeon will do a general medical examination. As a precaution, they may ask you to go for a mammogram before performing the procedure. They will inform you of the potential risks of the operation. They can also help you to decide on an implant and its size and position (in front of or behind the pectoral muscle). Since each patient is unique, the price of the procedure will be determined by your specific situation.
Choosing an implant
Your surgeon can easily help you answer this question. There are two types of implants available in Canada: silicone and saline.
Implants filled with saline are made from silicone elastomer rubber. These implants require a shorter incision because they are filled up after they are inserted into the breast. Some people may find that these implants have a less natural result.
Silicone implants are also made from the same silicone rubber shell, but they are filled with silicone gel. Some believe that they look and feel more natural than saline implants. However, they require a slightly larger incision.
To learn more about implants, please see our article about them.
Postoperative follow-ups
Your surgeon will meet with you a few times after the operation. You may feel some pain after the procedure, but don’t worry, it won’t last long. Your aesthetician may also give you some advice on how to take care of your scars and heal as successfully as possible.
With scientific advances and the training of excellent surgeons, breast augmentation is very safe. But like any surgery, breast augmentation does have some risks.
Hematoma and infection are two complications that may occur after surgery. Hematoma is a build-up of blood that, in the vast majority of cases, requires another surgery in order to be treated. Infection may be superficial, in which case it is easily treated. However, it could also be internal, requiring another surgery to eliminate it.
Implant rupture, changes in nipple sensation and scarring problems are other complications that may arise after the operation. However, they are very rare, and the procedure is very safe nowadays. Before the operation, your surgeon will make sure to give you all the important information about the procedure and will be happy to answer all your questions.
Life after the operation
The vast majority of women who decide to move forward with breast augmentation regain their self-confidence.
Know that if you decide to have children after the procedure and want to breastfeed them, you will be able to do so. The implants are inserted behind the mammary glands, leaving the nutritive function of the breasts intact.
However, there are some things to keep in mind if you choose this operation. Breast augmentation is not a single-surgery procedure. The implants may break down over time and you will need to replace them one or more times throughout your life.
Also — and this is true for all women — it is always important to perform regular breast cancer screening exams. Breast implants may make it harder to read a mammogram.
If you are thinking about breast augmentation, know that it is a very safe and common operation. As a surgeon, I am in the best position to give you clear and honest information about all the aspects of the surgery. Contact me, and I would be delighted to advise you and suggest the best solution for your specific case.
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