Common Questions About Breast Augmentation

Although it is a well-known surgery across most of the country, breast augmentation can still be an overwhelming idea for women who are considering the procedure for the first time. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi and the caring medical staff at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, understand that choosing to undergo any surgical procedure is an important decision, and they are committed to helping guide patients through the entire process, starting with education.   

During your initial consultation, Dr. Kelishadi will take all the time necessary to evaluate your case, discuss your needs and goals, recommend an appropriate course of action, and answer all of your questions. Most women arrive for their consultation with a prepared list of questions. This is highly encouraged, as it will help Dr. Kelishadi and his staff ensure that your specific concerns and questions are addressed at that first appointment. To help get your list started, here are some of the most common questions asked by Newport Beach-area patients considering breast augmentation.

What kind of breast implants should I get?

It is important to understand all of the implant options available to you. The most commonly used breast implants that are considered safe and effective are silicone gel and saline implants. Within the family of gel implants, there are many different options including high profile, moderate profile, and low profile. Some surgeons also offer textured gel implants, shaped gel implants, and other models. When it comes to selecting the type of implant that best meets a patient’s needs, it is important to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Sean Kelishadi and the staff at SSK Plastic Surgery will recommend the most appropriate implants on a case-by-case basis.

What size breast implants should I get? 

After the question of silicone versus saline, the ideal implant size is arguably the next most common inquiry from Newport Beach, CA, breast augmentation patients. During the initial consultation, Dr. Kelishadi will discuss sizing and, in many cases, give patients the opportunity to try several sets of "sizers" in their bra to help them choose their implant size. At the time of the procedure, the surgical team will have multiple sizes of implants prepped and ready in the operating room that are equal to, just above, and just below the earlier agreed-upon size. Dr. Kelishadi is therefore able to make changes during surgery if needed. This is particularly useful when a patient has one breast that is slightly larger or smaller than the other. It also gives the surgeon the best opportunity to achieve the final look desired by the patient.

While the size of implants used in breast augmentation is based primarily on a patient’s personal preferences and goals, an experienced surgeon will be able to offer valuable advice regarding which size may look best on a patient’s frame.

Will I have scars from my breast augmentation procedure?

Fortunately, advances in modern medicine and technology allow doctors to perform breast augmentation with relatively minimal scarring. Dr. Kelishadi and the exceptional medical team at SSK Plastic Surgery employ state-of-the-art techniques to give patients their best opportunity for a cosmetically pleasing outcome.

It is important, however, to have realistic expectations regarding breast augmentation scars before undergoing the procedure. As with any surgically invasive procedure, incisions will be made, and patients will have a scar. The size and location of the incisions made during breast augmentation will vary depending on the surgeon, the technique being used, the patient’s anatomy, and other factors. During a routine breast augmentation, Dr. Kelishadi typically places incisions in the fold of the breast, resulting in scars that are completely concealed in most cases. For patients who require a breast lift, there may be more visible scarring following the procedure. The team at SSK Plastic Surgery is committed to helping patients achieve an aesthetically pleasing result and can recommend a wide variety of options for minimizing the appearance of scars.

How long is the recovery from breast augmentation?

Though breast augmentation is a relatively common procedure, it is still an invasive surgery that requires rest, recovery, and healing. Following the procedure, most patients experience some level of pain and discomfort that can last for up to 7 – 10 days, though Tylenol and pain medication can help relieve these symptoms. Many women are able to return to their jobs within a week of the procedure, providing the job does not require physical labor, but a large number of patients choose to take a full week off work.

During recovery, it is imperative that patients follow postoperative care instructions regarding physical limitations, medications, and more to ensure the most successful outcome. Patients can expect to have restricted physical ability and to wear supportive garments for up to six weeks after the procedure. It is important to remember that healing will continue for up to six months. During this time, the patient will see their breasts continue to change and settle before the final results are visible.

How do I get started?

The first step of breast augmentation is to consult an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. Call our team at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sean Kelishadi, and find out more about how you can enhance your appearance with breast augmentation.