September 08, 2023
So you’re looking into getting a breast augmentation, or maybe you’ve just had one and you’re wondering how your results will fare over time. You’ve come to the right place. Breast Augmentations are one of our signature plastic surgery procedures here at the clinic. Dr. Lista has been performing the surgery for over 30 years, so we have a pretty good idea of what the results will look like over time.
We’d like to preface by saying that every patient’s body is different. Your results and your healing will be unique to you. It’s always important to listen to your body and make note if things change and what sort of circumstances preceded these changes. Our team is always available to answer questions over the phone, and book you in for check-ups with your surgeon if need be.
That being said, here are some of the trends that we’ve noticed over the last few decades of performing breast augmentations.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shows that patients report higher “satisfaction with breasts, […] psychosocial well-being, […] and sexual well-being” after having their breast augmentations (McCarthy et al. 2012).
It’s great to see that patients are really benefiting from this procedure in various ways. The impact is, naturally, most prominent soon after the procedure. Immediately after a breast augmentation, patients often notice a drastic increase in volume. Sometimes they even worry that the size they chose may have been too large.
Our beautiful breast augmentation patient 7 months post-op
As the swelling from the procedure lessens and breast tissue softens, the implant begins to look closer to the sample you chose during your sizing appointment. This is part of the reason why our healthcare team teaches you how to massage after your surgery: to loosen the tension around your breasts and allow the implants to sit more naturally against your chest wall.
It can still be quite the adjustment at first and you’ll notice that your clothing fits differently. You might even have to buy some new items–but who doesn’t love an excuse for a little shopping?
Your breasts won’t experience any more substantial changes past your first year of healing. The appearance may alter naturally as your body does.
Some patients will undergo weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding (and yes, you can breastfeed with implants), and a multitude of other changes that affect the appearance of the body, and therefore your augmentation. But as long as you don’t experience any complications, you won’t observe any major differences.
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It’s important to note that if you do start to notice major changes in the appearance of your breasts, reach out to your surgeon. Continuing care is crucial, and our doctors are happy to check in with you, especially if an issue arises.
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Some patients worry that they’ll have to replace their implants every 10 or so years, and in some cases, patients do have to undergo revisional procedures when issues arise. This is why it’s important to come in regularly for follow-up appointments.
Generally, however, our doctors advise that so long as there aren’t any complications, the safest route is to keep your original implants. Medical devices and procedures change over time. That’s the beauty of advancements in technology and medicine. Naturally, if you’ve had your procedure prior to certain changes, you may be inclined to switch things up.
Ultimately, this is a conversation you should have with your surgeon. A gentle reminder, however, that surgery comes with risks, and we want to minimize those risks as much as possible. As long as you’re coming in for regular check-ups, you’re not experiencing any health concerns, and you’re still happy with your results, there’s no need for worry.
Breasts naturally soften over time. This is the case with or without implants. Skin increases in laxity as we age, and sometimes the implants may sit lower than they did when you first had your procedure. This is normal, but it’s still important to come in for regular check-ups to ensure everything is the way it should be.
If you’re becoming unhappy with the results and feel like you would like to explore your options, you’re welcome to book a consultation for a revision. In the case of breast augmentation, this may include a breast lift, a replacement of the original implants, or some other combination of procedures.
There you have it! A brief overview of a breast augmentation timeline. Again, everybody is different, and you know your body better than anyone else. As always, we’re here to support you through this life-changing journey. If you have any questions about breast augmentations, or you’re an existing patient with a concern, we’re just a phone call away.
Did we answer all your questions? Our goal is to ensure you have the best information possible to make your decision. If you still have questions, we’re here to help.
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