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4 Things to Know Before Your Breast Augmentation

Woman smiling after breast augmentation

You’ve got your doctor selected and your implants picked out—you might have even booked your surgery date—but are you fully prepared for your breast augmentation here in Long Beach?

We wanted to use this month’s blog post as an opportunity to share some of the lesser-known effects of breast augmentation, so that you can plan ahead and know exactly what to expect.

You’ll probably need another surgery.

Not right away, though. It’s a good idea to consider the fact that breast implants don’t last forever and breast augmentation isn’t meant to create permanent results. Today’s implants have the potential to last for more than a decade, so revisionary surgery won’t be necessary anytime soon. You’ll know it’s time to replace or remove your implants when they begin losing their shape. Your breasts will likely begin to sag (just like they would without implants), and you’ll be ready for a “tune-up.”

You may not be in love with your immediate results.

Movies and TV have glamorized the “unveiling” process after plastic surgery a bit. When we remove your dressings here in the office, your breasts may not look exactly how you envisioned. That’s normal! In the initial weeks and months after surgery, the body goes through an acclimation process. The skin and underlying tissues need to expand to accommodate the implants, and during this time, your breasts may look high or tight. As your body adjusts over time, the implants will soften up and drop to a more natural-looking position.

Your period might be disrupted.

The menstrual cycle is a fickle thing and it’s sensitive to all sorts of changes in your lifestyle or habits. Surgery can be a big stressor. Between the anxiety and excitement you might be feeling and the changes in your daily routine, your period might go AWOL for a month or so. That’s OK! If your period disappears for more than 3 months, see your regular doctor.

Pain is normal.

And we’re not just referring to the pain associated with incisions. As your breast tissue heals and your affected nerve endings regenerate, you may experience sharp or shooting pain radiating from your breasts. Happily, this sensation is temporary. In the meantime, you can help alleviate the discomfort by massaging your breasts. During a follow-up appointment, we’ll show you how to effectively massage your breasts in a way that effectively reduces pain—without affecting the results of your surgery.

Feel a little more prepared for your breast augmentation day? We hope so! Remember, we’re here for you and we want to answer all your questions. Feel free to reach out to us online and a member of our team will quickly get back to you.

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