The Things You Should and Should Not Do for Breast Augmentation

DO research surgeons and surgery clinics in your area. As one of the most popular elective cosmetic surgeries in North America, breast augmentation is offered by almost every plastic surgical clinic in the country. However, not all boob jobs are created equal. It is important to do your research and ensure your physician is board-certified in the procedure you are interested in and has numerous before and after photos available to their potential patients.

DON’T go too big. While it may seem like you’ll get what you pay for, so bigger must be better, do a little experimenting before going under the knife. Some physicians have test or training bras of different sizes for you to wear for a week and gauge how you feel. You can also utilize computer software to see what your frame would look carrying a little extra weight up top. Some women have particularly petite bodies that look strange or off-balance if they choose a cup size is too large. You want your augmentation to look and feel natural.

DO choose saline implants. While the controversy around breast augmentation silicone is largely a thing of the past and current materials used are approved for safety, there is less risk overall with saline implants. Saline is naturally found in the body and is easily re-absorbed by the body in the event of a rupture or leakage. Slow leaks may not be detected for many years and silicone can build up in the chest cavity if a rupture is not detected. There are a variety of opinions regarding which material looks and feels more natural, so be sure to discuss these points with your doctor if they are important to you.

DON’T buy that new bathing suit or lingerie just yet. Right after breast augmentation surgery, the breast wall and tissue will be tender and swollen. Your physician may recommend ice packs or prescribe you certain medications to deal with the pain. Allow the incisions to heal and the swelling to go down before starting shopping for new clothes, bathing suits, or lingerie. This way, the sizing will be more accurate and you will be more satisfied with the overall results.

DO enlist the help of a friend or family member. Breast augmentation is serious surgery and is seriously invasive. Plan to take it easy for a few days afterwards and get a friend or family member to help you around the house. Your doctor will probably advise you to avoid any heavy lifting, strenuous exercise or vigorous sexual activity. Give your body time to recuperate and take it easy. Generous healing time with minimal activity will ensure the incisions heal without infection or inflammation, which will reduce scarring and improve overall results. Scars should fade to fine white lines within six months.

DON’T cut corners or try to save money. Investing a little more up front will pay off in the long run.