Breast Augmentation Healing and Recuperation

Breast augmentation exploded on to the scene of elective cosmetic surgery over a decade ago and continues to climb in popularity as the most sought after surgery for women across the country and around the world. While many women are pleased with the way their faces grow old gracefully, they are not satisfied with the havoc gravity, pregnancy and age can wreak on their breasts. Similarly, many women are just not happy with what nature has given them and want to supplement their female figure. Whatever your reason for breast augmentation, it is wise to do your research and find a plastic surgeon that you trust. There are a number of common side effects and risk factors that can occur. By choosing a plastic surgeon with extensive education and experience in this field of elective cosmetic surgery, you will dramatically reduce your risk of unwanted side effects.

However, there are a number of side effects that occur with almost any surgery and can only be minimized, not completely eliminated. Swelling is one side effect that is bound to occur any time there is an operation with an incision site. Swelling is the body’s response to injury or trauma as it attempts to deliver more healing agents to that area of the body. This response can go overboard though and result in fluid retention in that particular area. Increased fluid retention disorts the overall effects of your breast augmentation and may cause more pain or irritation.

Some of the things you can do to reduce swelling include staying hydrated and avoiding salty foods. Lots of fluids helps the body flush itself regularly and avoiding salt will minimize extra fluid retention. You can also practice some forms of self-massage to increase and improve circulation. For extensive plastic surgery operations such as body contouring or liposuction, compression garments are worn to help reduce and eliminate excess fluid build-up as your body heals.

Other side effects and potential risks that can occur with breast augmentation include delayed wound healing, infection, bleeding or clotting problems, asymmetry, capsular rupture or leakage, and general dissatisfaction with the overall results. Delayed wound healing is generally related to poor blood circulation and smokers should be cautioned to quit for at least a few weeks before and after the procedure. Infection is a common cause of incision inflammation and redness and should be treated promptly with a course of antibiotics from your doctor. Bleeding and clotting problems are often caused by inherent disorders and it is important for you to discuss your entire health history with your doctor before the surgery. Capsular rupture or leakage may depend on the technique of the surgeon or may depend on the type of material being used. Asymmetry and general dissatisfaction are best avoided by choosing a doctor with extensive experience in the type of breast augmentation you are looking for.

In general, doing a little research and extra legwork before your breast augmentation will help ensure that you get the results you desire with as few side effects as possible.