Breast Augmentation

What kind of outcome is typical for breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation usually changes the size and shape of your breasts and can improve your body image. Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime, however, so they may need to be replaced. Today’s implants typically last more than a decade.

What are the alternatives to breast augmentation?

You can tone your pectoral muscles with exercise, giving your breasts a natural lift. You can also get a new, push-up bra. Other nonsurgical options include Botox injections and dermal fillers; laser treatments; Thermage, which uses radio waves to tighten your breast; Aptos threading, which uses minimally invasive threads inserted into the soft tissue and pulled tight to create a lift; Caci bust treatment, which uses electric pulses to tone chest the muscles, and more. 

What are the possible side effects of intravenous sedation?

Some of the possible side effects of intravenous sedation are drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea and vomiting, headache, bruising (from the IV), amnesia about the procedure, and crying. 

What are the possible side effects of local anesthesia?

Some possible side effects of local anesthesia include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, twitching muscles, drop in blood pressure, continuing numbness, weakness, and tingling. 

What are the possible side effects of general anesthesia?

Some of the possible side effects of general anesthesia include nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, bruising (from the IV), itching, shivering and feeling cold, difficulty urinating, and sleepiness. In older patients, memory loss and temporary confusion are possible. 

What are possible side effects and complications of a breast augmentation?

Some of the possible side effects and complications of breast augmentation surgery include infection; bleeding; anesthesia risks; temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation; scarring on the breast; implant leakage or rupture; the formation of scar tissue around the implant; wrong positioning of the implant; fluid accumulation; wrinkling of the skin over the implant; persistent pain; development of implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, an uncommon cancer of the immune system; development of breast implant illness that includes fatigue and memory loss, rash, and joint pain; and the need for possible reversal surgery.

How safe is breast augmentation surgery?

Both saline and silicone breast implants are FDA approved and considered safe for breast augmentation procedures. Still, the decision to have breast augmentation surgery is personal, so you will have to weigh the benefits with the risks. If you’re a smoker, your surgeon might recommend that you stop at least during the time of your procedure, because it can impede healing. You should also know that Hancock Regional Hospital has been rated one of the safest hospitals in America by The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit health care watchdog organization; and was named the safest hospital in Indiana on the Lown Institute Hospital Index.

How do I know if a breast augmentation is right for me?

You’re a good candidate for a breast augmentation if you’re physically healthy, have realistic expectations, your breasts are fully developed, and you want to make your breasts larger and fuller.

Do I have options for anesthesia for breast augmentation surgery?

Sometimes general anesthesia is used for breast augmentation surgery, but sedation and local anesthesia can be used, too.

What issue does a breast augmentation solve?

Breast augmentation may be a good option if you’re concerned that your breasts are too small; you’re bothered with your breasts losing shape after weight loss, pregnancy, or with aging; or your breasts are asymmetrical.

How is a breast augmentation done?

When you undergo breast augmentation, your surgeon will make an inconspicuous incision in each breast. Typically, incisions will be made around your nipples, in the fold under your breasts, or under your arms. Then the surgeon will separate your breast tissue and place the implants behind your nipples. Once the implants are placed, your incisions are closed. 

Before your procedure, there will be several augmentation options for you and your surgeon to choose from.

Implant options 

• Silicone implants, which are filled with silicone gel 
• Form-stable implants, which are filled with a thicker silicone gel, making them firmer than traditional silicone implants
• Saline implants, which are filled with sterile salt water 
• Round implants, which can be filled with either saline or silicone and have a tendency to make breasts appear fuller 

Texture options 

• Smooth breast implants, which are soft and can move with the breast implant pocket
• Textured breast implants, which are less likely to move around inside of the breast 
• Fat grafting, which uses liposuction to take fat from other parts of your body and inject it into your breasts (a good choice for women who are looking for more natural results)

Why might I have to wait to schedule a breast augmentation?

In some cases it takes time for a patient’s body to be ready for surgery. For example, if you have another medical issue including another surgical procedure or an illness, we might wait to schedule surgery. Your health and safety are our top priorities, so we schedule surgeries when they’re best for our patients. If you smoke, it may be necessary for you to stop smoking and wait for a period of time before your procedure, as smoking can impede the healing process.

Will the surgical team know my health history?

Your health history will be compiled and available to the team before, during, and after surgery. If you’re a Hancock Health patient, we will be able to access your records within our system. If you aren’t, we’ll work with your doctors to get the necessary information. 

How should I decide which surgeon’s advice to follow?

You should work with the surgeon with whom you feel comfortable, whether that’s one of our surgeons or not. 

Do I have to get a second or third opinion for breast augmentation surgery?

You can always get a second or third opinion, but it isn’t required. 

What should I bring to my first appointment with a surgeon to talk about breast augmentation?

• Insurance information
• Medical records, including your medical history, from your primary care physician
• A list of your surgical goals and photos of the look you want to achieve
• You should be prepared for your surgeon to measure you and take photographs of your chest

Do I need a referral to see a surgeon about breast augmentation surgery?

You don’t need a referral to see a plastic surgeon.

How long does it take the anesthesia to wear off?

It takes about an hour for general anesthesia to wear off, but you may notice the effects for a day or so. It usually takes 30 minutes to an hour for local anesthesia to wear off, but the effects can last longer. It takes several hours for intravenous sedation to wear off though the effects can last for 24 hours. 

What do I need to bring to the hospital the day of my breast augmentation surgery?

You should bring something to keep you entertained in the waiting area. You’ll also want to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, including a loose-fitting top that buttons up or has a front zipper closure. A blanket and a pillow might also be helpful during the ride home. You may want a bottle of water and some crackers for the ride home after your procedure.

Why am I asked for my name and date of birth every time I get medicine?

It’s a safety precaution to make sure you’re receiving the medication that’s prescribed for you.

Why are there so many people on my surgery team?

In addition to the surgeon, you have an anesthesiologist, nurses—some of them specialize in working with patients and others assist the surgeon—and support staff, who will check you in and out, compile your records, and more. They all work together, performing their individual jobs, so your procedure is as successful as possible. 

Will I need someone to take me home after breast augmentation surgery?

You will need someone to drive you home after your procedure. We’ll help you arrange a ride home if you don’t have one.

What should I expect right before breast augmentation surgery?

• You’ll arrive an hour before your surgery and be escorted to the preoperative waiting area.
• You’ll remove all of your clothing and jewelry, and put on a hospital gown. (Your valuables will be placed in a secure area or may be given to a family member.) 
• You’ll sign any necessary paperwork and a preoperative nurse will take your vital signs, review your medications, and answer any questions.
• You’ll meet the members of your surgery team. They will mark the location of your surgery on your body. 
• An I.V. (intravenous line) will be placed in your hand or arm, so medications—including general anesthesia—can be administered. If you’re using a local anesthesia and sedation, you’ll receive an injection.
• When it’s time for your surgery, you will be wheeled into the operating suite on a stretcher.

Why can’t I eat before surgery?

There’s a risk of aspiration, which means breathing foreign objects, like food or saliva, into your lungs. This can occur because the anesthetic for surgery can impair your body’s ability to stop the contents of your stomach from entering your lungs. 

How should I prepare for a breast augmentation?

Prior to your procedure, you may be asked to get lab tests, a medical evaluation, or a baseline mammogram. (You might be asked to get another mammogram after your procedure so your care providers can better understand future changes to your breasts.) Exercise, including strength training and upper body stretches, can help with your posture and fitness level. If you smoke, you’ll probably be asked to stop for several weeks or months, and you’ll also likely be instructed not to take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements because they can increase bleeding. Your surgeon will also likely tell you not to eat anything after midnight on the day of your surgeries. (Not sure where to go to get your lab tests? Check out Gateway Hancock Health, where you’ll be able to get in and out quickly and pay, on average, 70% less than you’ll pay at a hospital.)

How long will I be in the hospital after breast augmentation surgery?

You’ll be able to go home the same day as your surgery.

How long will I be under for breast augmentation surgery?

You will be anesthetized during the entire surgery regardless of the type of anesthesia being used. If you have general anesthesia, you’ll wake up soon after the procedure is complete.

How long does a breast augmentation take?

A breast augmentation takes one to two hours. 

When will my family be informed about how I’m doing?

Our associates will get information from the surgical team in the operating room during your surgery and keep them updated.

What will happen during breast augmentation surgery?

After you are anesthetized and breathing oxygen through a mask, your surgeon will make small, inconspicuous incisions in your breasts and then place the implants. Once the implants are placed, your incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and skin adhesive or surgical tape.

Will I need to fill any prescriptions or take medication after breast augmentation surgery?

You might receive prescriptions for pain, muscle relaxers, and an anti-inflammatory drug. You might also be instructed to use over-the-counter pain medication to minimize discomfort from the procedure.

How soon after breast augmentation surgery can I eat or drink?

You might not be able to eat or drink right away and you might be asked to follow a clear fluid diet for a short time. After that, you’ll probably be able to return to solid foods—but easy-to-digest items, including soups, pudding, and yogurt, are recommended.

Will I receive pain medication right after breast augmentation surgery?

You will receive pain medication immediately after breast augmentation surgery.

How soon after breast augmentation surgery will I be up and moving around?

Your nurses will help you get up as soon as possible after surgery. 

When will I get to talk to my surgeon after surgery?

You’ll be able to talk to your surgeon immediately after your procedure, while you’re in the recovery room.

How will I know if the breast augmentation worked?

Your surgeon will discuss your procedure with you but, in the long run, you’ll decide if your procedure worked. If you are pleased with the results and you feel better and more confident, then your procedure is a success. 

What can I expect right after breast augmentation surgery?

You’ll spend a few hours in the recovery room as the anesthesia wears off and then you’ll prepare to go home. You may feel achy and you might also experience temporary tightness or muscle aches.

What are payment options like for breast augmentation surgery at Hancock Health?

Hancock Health is committed to helping make great care affordable for all patients. To find out more about payment options, please visit the billing and insurance FAQ page at HancockRegionalHospital.org.

Will Medicare cover breast augmentation?

Because it’s typically elective cosmetic surgery, Medicare will usually not cover breast augmentation unless it has been deemed medically necessary.

Will insurance cover breast augmentation?

Because a breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure, it probably won’t be covered by medical insurance unless it can be connected to a medically necessary, therapeutic benefit. To obtain your possible out-of-pocket expenses, use our Price Estimator Tool.

How much does breast augmentation cost?

Consult the Price Transparency Tool at HancockRegionalHospital.org for an idea of how much breast augmentation surgery might cost.