Women who come in for breast augmentation consultations at my Scottsdale-area practice are usually quite excited and prepared with a list of questions about breast implants and the procedure itself. Most research the topic online before coming in but have additional questions and want to clarify information they’ve read.
Most of the conversations involve questions that are unique to the patient’s needs and aesthetic goals, such as what size implants would be the best for her frame. But some of the most common questions are more general and are relevant to just about every breast augmentation patient. Here are my answers to 3 such questions:
1. How much does breast augmentation cost?
There is no defined price tag for this surgery. The final cost involves various factors, ranging from the type of implants and the surgical techniques you select to the region where you have the operation performed. The final cost also includes fees for the licensed anesthesia specialist and surgical facilities, so there are a lot of variables. That being said, getting breast implants here in the Scottsdale region typically costs between $6500-$7500.
2. Which is better: silicone or saline implants?
Both silicone and saline implants have unique advantages, but the majority of my patients — and women throughout the U.S. — select silicone implants. This includes the highly cohesive gel implants, known as form-stable or “gummy bear” implants. Most women believe silicone implants feel and look more like natural breasts. Silicone implants also aren’t as prone to visible rippling as saline implants. Still, saline has its advantages. For women who are concerned about incisions on their breasts, saline implants are a good choice because they are easier to insert through a transaxillary incision (in the armpit area). That’s because saline implants, unlike their silicone counterparts, are filled after being inserted. Saline implants also tend to be less expensive. For women who want to restore breast fullness but still desire a more natural look, the “anatomic” or gummy bear implants are an excellent option.
3. How long before I’m able to get back to work or everyday activities?
Patients whose work doesn’t require heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity typically return to their jobs 5 to 7 days after breast augmentation. For most of my patients, recovery tends to be easier than they expected, and I encourage patients to begin taking short walks the day of the surgery to enhance blood circulation and promote healing. Exercises that involve extreme physical exertion should be postponed for several weeks to ensure the incisions are completely healed.
It’s important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who is willing to take the time to answer all of your questions so that your feel educated and confident before your procedure. To see more answers to common questions about this surgery, please visit my Breast Augmentation FAQ.
Leave a Reply