Typically, breast augmentation surgery only takes one or two hours to perform. If you are undergoing a more extensive surgery, such as breast augmentation with lift, the procedure may take longer. Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. David Bottger will take as long as he needs in order to ensure the best possible results for you.
Once your breast augmentation has been performed, the results typically last for several years. Breast implants do not last forever, though, and there is a chance that you may need to replace them after a decade or two. Implants usually come with a warranty that may cover some of the cost of replacement, though.
If you are interested in improving the size and shape of your breasts, please contact Dr. Bottger today at 610-355-1929 to schedule your initial consultation.
How Is Breast Augmentation Performed?
Breast augmentation is not a one size fits all procedure. There are a number of variables that can be customized in order to create the best results for your unique goals and anatomy. Before your surgery, Dr. Bottger will discuss the following with you:
- Implant type (silicone vs saline)
- Incision location (armpit, under the breast, around the areola)
- Implant placement (under or over the muscle)
- Implant size
He will also help you to visualize what your new breasts will look like, and will explain any potential anatomical limitations.
During your breast augmentation procedure, the following steps are performed:
- Anesthesia is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist
- Incisions are made
- Pocket is created
- Implants are inserted (silicone implants are inserted pre-filled, while saline implants are filled after insertion)
- Incisions are closed and Dr. Bottger performs a final check to make sure the results are as discussed
After your surgery is complete, you will not be able to go straight home. We will move you to a recovery room, where you can fully recover from the anesthesia and we can monitor you for any possible complications. Most patients spend a few hours in our recovery room before being discharged.
You will not be able to drive yourself home, so if you do not have someone who can pick you up, we will call a ride share service or a taxi for you.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Before you go home after your surgery, we will give you detailed post-operative instructions verbally and in writing. For the first few days, you should try not to raise your arms over your head, and you should take it easy and rest. If you have small children, we strongly recommend seeking help with childcare for the first few days at minimum, but preferably a week or two.
You should be able to return to work within three to seven days if you work a desk job. If your job requires physical labor, you may need to take more time off. We encourage walking, but do not perform any strenuous exercise for at least a month. Light, low-impact cardio can be resumed after two or three weeks, depending on how fast you are healing.
Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
If you are interested in breast augmentation surgery in Philadelphia, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Bottger at 610-355-1929 today to schedule your consultation. We serve patients in Newtown Square and other areas of greater Philadelphia.