In New York and beyond, there are many rumors floating around about breast augmentations. For many, knowledge about the procedure comes strictly from movies, TV shows, and celebrity gossips sites. As you might expect, that limited exposure can lead to misunderstandings about augmentations — and what they mean for the individuals who get them. Here are a few misconceptions, and points of clarity, surrounding the procedure:
Augmentations are all about vanity
When people hear the words “breast augmentation,” they might think of full-figured performers, models, or other women who make a living based, at least in part, on looks, and who have decided to enlarge their chests to meet a certain standard of beauty. While this might be the case for some ladies (and we fully support their decisions to embrace the procedure), the truth is that there are many reasons for choosing to have a breast augmentation. For some, the decision comes after years of insecurity about a congenital breast defect, following a pregnancy and breastfeeding, or because of a desire to balance breast size. The truth is that there is no wrong reason to have a breast augmentation — so long as the patient is comfortable and satisfied with the result.
All breast augmentations are obvious and look the same
While it’s true that those closest to you will likely recognize a change when your breast size increases in a matter of a day, advances in the procedure make it difficult for a stranger to detect that you’ve had an augmentation. Under my care, patients receive larger breasts that both look and feel natural. The key is communication and finding the right fit on a case-by-case basis. During an initial consultation, I make time to talk with patients about what type of implant they would like to use. There are a variety of styles on the market, and they all have different advantages, so it’s important to understand the latest products and how they would look on different bodies. We’ll also discuss the best place for the skin incision. Choosing to insert in an inconspicuous place is essential for hiding any scarring. Many women opt for insertion either in the crease on the underside of the breast or around the areola, but the choice is up to you!
Recovery is brutal
After implants have been inserted and positioned, patients are stitched up, taped, bandaged, and sent home the same day to heal. While most patients do feel sore for a couple of days after a procedure, they aren’t laid up in bed for weeks. In fact, many return to work within the week. Stitches can come out between seven and 10 days after the procedure, and swelling and sensitivity will end after a few weeks.
There’s no need to be left in the dark when it comes to breast augmentations. If you have questions about breast procedures, contact us to get the facts straight.