Q: How do you determine implant size?
A: Implant size is dependent on the patient’s chest width and pre-existing breast size. The amount of skin laxity also plays a role when determining the best implant size. Implant sizers are often used intra operatively to help choose the best implant size for each patient. Breast augmentation can be done over-the-muscle (subglandular) or under-the-muscle (sub-pectoral), to suit each patient’s needs and desires.
Q: For breast implants, which is better, Under-the-Muscle or Over-the-Muscle?
A: The advantages of sub-pectoral (under-the-muscle) implant placement are:
- Less incidence of capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant which makes the breast firm and distorts the breast shape).
- Reduced noticeable edge of implant with less chest wall to breast transition.
- Better coverage of the implant in the upper pole and medially resulting in a smaller chance of skin wrinkling and visible implant rippling in these areas.
- Mammogram easier to perform with less implant interference.
- The advantages of sub-glandular (above-the-muscle) implant placement are:
- Less painful leading to less downtime and earlier return to work.
- Less upper pole fullness
- Less unnatural implant movement with muscle contraction
- Softer and more natural looking breast earlier in the recovery period.
Q: Do you offer financing if I can’t afford to pay for my surgery all at once?
A: We do offer financing through Care Credit and Capitol One Healthcare Finance. Please visit our page on plastic surgery financing for more information.
Q: What kinds of medications and supplements should I avoid prior to my surgery?
A: The office will supply you with a list of exactly what to avoid in the weeks prior to your surgery. Download form
Some general guidelines are listed below:
- Stop taking any medication containing ASA or aspirin at least 2 weeks prior to your surgery. These medications interfere with blood clotting, increasing the risk of bruising and excessive bleeding. They are present in many cold and headache remedies, so check your labels, and if in doubt, call us! Also avoid medications that contain Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, etc.)
- Avoid alcohol as much as possible for two weeks prior to your surgery. Avoid alcohol completely for 48 hours prior to your surgery.
- Stop smoking. Smoking interferes with the circulation to the skin. It increases the risk of wound healing problems and loss of undermined skin.
- Avoid taking any supplements with Vitamin E.
Q: How much time off will I need after my surgery?
Although this varies based on the patient, the procedure(s) and the nature of the case, most patients need at least a week off work or school after having plastic surgery. Trying to return sooner will be difficult, can result in more bruising and will slow down the entire healing process. Some operations require more time off. Your doctor can address this with you based on your specific case.