The most commonly performed procedure Dr. Davis performs is breast augmentation. We asked Dr. Davis to answer the most commonly asked questions about implant options, recovery and augmentation in general.
What are the differences between saline and silicone implants?
There are differences between the saline and gel but one is not better than the other – the question is which is better for you. There is no difference in the appearance. Your breast should look natural with either implant. The major difference is the detection of a leak in the implant. It is obvious in a saline implant that a leak has occurred as the volume of your breast will deflate over several days. Your body will readily absorb the saline solution. The gel implant on the other hand is not absorbed by the body and there is no change in their look and feel if they should leak. All gel implants are ‘cohesive gel’ or ‘gummy bear’ implants. There is no known disease caused by silicone gel in the body.
In consultation with your plastic surgeon, you will discuss at length such topics as size, approach and incision, as well as all pros and cons of breast implant surgery.
How long does this surgery typically take?
The time from beginning to end of surgery is usually about an hour.
What is the recovery period?
There is some discomfort for three to five days. You should be able to resume your normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable and most people take a week off work. It is not uncommon for someone to have surgery on Thursday and be back to work on Monday.
Where will the incision be and how big is it?
We offer three choices:
1. the fold beneath the breast
2. the lower curve of the nipple/areola
3. the top of the arm pit
There are pros and cons to each and there is no difference in healing, costs, recovery, or complications. The length of the incision will depend on your choice of saline (one inch) or gel (two inches).
Can I breast feed after breast augmentation?
If you have breast fed successfully, you should be able to breast feed afterwards. There is no mechanical reason to prevent breast feeding with any of the techniques or incisions offered.
How often will I have to replace the implants?
The manufacturers have a life time replacement for the implants should they fail. There is no cost for the implants but an operation to remove the leaking implant and place the new one will involve some costs. They should last at least ten years and hopefully many years beyond this. Replacement is needed only when they leak if that should occur.
How do I know if I need a lift or implants?
In consultation with your plastic surgeon, you will discuss your expectations and desires. A breast lift is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape the sagging breast, determined by the skin. If a larger volume or cup size is desired the implant will augment your existing breast tissue and fat. An implant will not change shape and a lift will not change size. Sometimes both a lift and implants are done at the same time to increase firmness and size.
Where is the surgery done?
Almost all our patients choose to have their procedures in our AAAASF accredited office surgery facility. We also offer outpatient surgery at any hospital in Raleigh or Cary.
What type of anesthesia is used?
We recommend a general anesthesia with a board certified MD anesthesiologist.
How can I determine what size I would like to be?
There is no reliable measurement of breast size. You need to not focus upon bra sizes because they will vary from manufacturer to style to personal comfort for fit. The cup size of a 36 C is very different from the cup size of a 34 C although they are both “C” cups. One woman may find a 34 B comfortable while another woman with the same size breast may prefer a 34 C or 36 B. It does not matter what size bra you wear. It does matter what you want to look like. While some surgeons find it helpful to have you try some sizes of implants in a bra, I find it best for you to show me with a photograph (topless in a sitting position) what you would like to ideally look like. I then use that photograph as a guide at the time of surgery. I will try different sizes to get the look we are trying to match. Remember that this is the artistic part of the process.
What is capsular contracture?
When any foreign object is implanted into the body, a natural defense of the body is to create scar tissue around it. In a small number of women, the scar tissue shrinks or contracts over time and the breast may appear higher and tighter. The appearance and feel is not natural. This is repaired by removing the excess scar tissue.
Our team had a lot of fun tying in our favorite charity with a special for our patients this August. With the upcoming GetHeeled 5K family friendly event in Chapel Hill we help sponsor in September, we need your help in reaching our $1000 goal! Your $25 registration fee not only registers you for the Fun Run September 14th, but it gets you $10/unit Botox all month at Davis Plastic Surgery. And if you receive at least 30 units – you also get a free box of Latisse!
Confidence looks good on you 