Oakland County Surgeon Explains the Breast Implant Surgery Procedure
If you are considering breast implant surgery for breast enhancement, a good place to start is with our Breast Implant FAQs HERE. If you have already read the Breast Implant FAQs, this article will answer specific questions about the breast implant surgery procedure itself.
How do I prepare for breast implant surgery?
Dr. Ali’s office will give you specific instructions leading up to your breast implant surgery. You may have to stop or start taking certain medications before surgery, so inform Dr. Ali of all medications and supplements you are taking during your consultation.
You must stop taking anti-inflammatory medications (including Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aspirin and Aleve) seven days before surgery. You must also avoid supplements that thin the blood for at least a week prior to your surgery. This includes: fish oil, coenzyme Q10, vitamin E in doses higher than 400IU per day, turmeric and ginger.
If you are a smoker, you must quit completely for six weeks before, and 6 weeks after, your breast implant surgery. This is because smoking is proven to delay or interfere with the body’s ability to heal.
Dr. Ali’s office will give you instructions about what to do the night before breast implant surgery, including fasting. If you have any health issues or illnesses in the days leading up to your surgery, always notify Dr. Ali’s office immediately. You will need to schedule someone to wait for you during the surgery who can then drive you home. You will also need to arrange to have a family member or friend stay with you for the first several days after surgery, as there will restrictions on lifting, driving and other daily activities.
Will I be give anesthesia during breast implant surgery?
The selection of anesthesia is a collaborative decision made between the patient, surgeon, and anesthesiologist. Factors such as the patient’s medical history, the extent of the surgery, and personal preferences play a significant role in determining the most suitable option. The goal is to provide a safe and comfortable experience for the patient.
Breast implant surgery can be performed under two types of anesthesia. Typically general anesthesia is used – which puts you completely to sleep. General anesthesia renders the patient completely unconscious and unaware during the surgery. It is typically administered through an IV line or inhalation. This option is common for more complex procedures like breast implant surgery, as it ensures the patient remains completely relaxed and pain-free throughout the duration of the operation.
In some cases of less extensive surgery, “twilight anesthesia” may be used that keeps you relaxed and sleepy through an IV drip. While the patient may be semi-conscious, they are unlikely to remember the surgical procedure.
Dr. Ali will discuss your anesthesia options with you completely during your consultation. Understanding the different types of anesthesia options is an essential aspect of preparing for breast implant surgery. Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali will work closely with patients to tailor anesthesia choices based on individual needs, ensuring a positive and stress-free experience throughout the surgical journey.
Where are the incisions made during breast implant surgery?
As one of Oakland County’s top breast implant surgeons, Dr. Ali is masterful at keeping incisions as small and inconspicuous as possible. Depending upon your size and shape, and the size of the implant, the small incision may be made in the breast crease, around the nipple, or in the armpit.
Gel breast implants require a slightly longer incision than saline implants, since gel implants care “prefilled” and need more room for insertion. If you are also undergoing a breast lift at the time of the implants, there will be additional incisions related to the breast lift. After examining your breasts, Dr. Ali will discuss the best incision options for your body and the implants you choose.
The incision’s location is crucial for minimizing scarring, achieving desired outcomes, and ensuring a seamless recovery. Common incision options used in breast implant surgery include:
1. Inframammary Breast Implant Incision:
Placed discreetly within the natural fold underneath the breast, the inframammary incision is a popular choice for breast augmentation. This location allows for direct access to the breast pocket, providing optimal visibility for precise implant placement. It typically results in a well-hidden scar beneath the breast crease.
2. Periareolar Breast Implant Incision:
This incision is made along the border of the areola, where the darker pigmentation helps conceal scarring. The periareolar incision provides direct access for precise implant positioning. However, it’s essential to note that this option may not be suitable for those with smaller areolas or a preference for minimizing changes in nipple sensation.
3. Transaxillary Breast Implant Incision:
Placed within the natural folds of the underarm, the transaxillary incision is an excellent choice for those desiring no scarring on the breast itself. This approach involves the use of an endoscope to guide the surgeon in creating the breast pocket and positioning the implant. While scars are hidden in the underarm, adjusting the implant may be challenging with this method.
4. Transumbilical Breast Implant Incision (TUBA):
Also known as the belly button incision, TUBA involves making an incision within the navel through which the implant is guided into position. While this technique leaves no scars on the breast, it’s typically reserved for saline implants and may have limitations in achieving optimal results for certain patients.
5. Trans-areolar Breast Implant Incision with Dual Plane Technique:
Combining the peri-areolar incision with the dual plane technique, this approach allows for both precise implant placement and adjustments to the breast tissue. The dual plane technique involves placing the implant partially beneath the chest muscle, contributing to a more natural-looking result.
The selection of the ideal incision depends on various important factors, including personal preferences, your body type, and the size and type of implant chosen. Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed several hundred breast implant surgeries. He will thoroughly explain your breast implant incision options, ensuring a positive and customized breast augmentation experience.
How long does breast implant surgery take?
Breast implant surgery can be done safely as an outpatient procedure. Generally, the breast implant surgery itself takes no longer than 2 hours to complete. If a breast lift is also being performed at the same time, an additional hour or hour and a half is required.
You will need some additional time to wake up from the anesthesia. But most patients are able to go home the same day.
What kind of dressings will I have after the breast implant surgery?
Typically you will be sent home with tape or adhesive strips directly on your incision, with gauze over the adhesive, and possibly an ace bandage for compression. You will receive instructions for your post-surgery care, and dates for your follow-up appointments from Dr. Ali’s office.
Only rarely in breast implant surgery is a “drain” tube used. However if a breast lift is performed at the same time, one drain in each breast may sometimes be required.
Generally you can remove the gauze dressings the day after surgery. But tape or adhesive strips that are directly on the incision, should NOT be removed. Only let the Dr. remove them, or let them fall off naturally. If any drains are used, they generally must stay in until the drainage is less than 25 ml per drain in a twenty four hour period.
Dr. Ali will will send you home with detailed instructions for your after-care. And our office will schedule follow up appointments for removal of the adhesives, as well as the drains if they are used.
Top Oakland County Breast Implant Surgeon
Top surgeon Dr. Ali has provided breast implant surgery for thousands of satisfied patients across Oakland County. If you are considering breast implant surgery, he will be happy to offer you a consultation to answer any additional questions you may have about breast implant surgery.
Feel beautiful inside and out, with breast implant surgery. And remember, financing options are also available.
