Whether you’ve already signed up for a boob job or you’re currently in the planning stages, it is important to know what to expect during the surgery. Breast augmentation, breast reduction, and other cosmetic procedures pertaining to the chest are becoming increasingly popular, new cosmetic surgery clinics are opening all the time, largely owing to advances in technology and cheaper pricing. A boob job can radically enhance your confidence, correct misshapen or asymmetrical breasts, and even completely reconstruct breasts after cancer treatments.
Although the surgeon will provide you with a thorough explanation as to what the “boob job” procedure entails, here is an overview of what you can expect:
The Planning Stage
During your initial consultation with the doctor, you will be assessed to ensure that you are a good candidate for surgery. Good candidates have realistic expectations about the surgery, are emotionally stable, and have a good idea what they hope to achieve.
It is helpful to provide the surgeon with photos of breast shapes you like, or specifications of the sizes you require. The surgeon will recommend either “over the muscle” implants, “partial submuscular” implants, or “complete submuscular” implants depending on your individual requirements.
Types of Implants
Saline implants are currently the most common type, followed by silicone implants. Saline implants come in several different varieties, and they only require a small incision. Silicone implants are relatively new, but they are said to look and feel more natural. They come pre-filled and require little adjustment; however, a larger incision is required to fit them adequately. Your surgeon will explain the advantages and drawbacks of each type prior to your boob job and recommend the best type for your body.
Surgery Day
Your surgery team provides pre-operative information to help you properly prepare for your boob job. It is essential to follow these instructions to the letter, or you risk jeopardizing your health and your results.
The boob job itself usually takes under two hours, and you will be anesthetized during this time. Initially, the surgeon needs to make a small incision in each breast. There are four main types of incisions, and you will play an integral part in deciding which you prefer.
The areola incision forms a half moon under the nipple, the transax incision is made under the arm, and the inframmary incision occurs in the crease beneath the breast. TUBA incisions are also available, whereby the surgeon inserts the implants through the belly button and feeds them up to the chest area.
Once the implants are firmly in place, the surgeon will suture the incisions and protect them with gauze.
After Surgery
The first few days after your boob job may be uncomfortable, but any discomfort can be managed with pain medication. Plentiful rest and limited movement are recommended for the week after surgery – or at least until the gauze is removed and replaced with a surgical bra. Your breasts may be especially sensitive for several months after your boob job, but any bruising should subside within six weeks. The scars will fade until they are barely noticeable, but be aware that they will never completely disappear.
A boob job is the perfect remedy for saggy, ugly, or misshapen breasts. If you have questions or concerns about the procedure, be sure to contact your doctor.