Board-certified plastic surgeon David Bottger, MD answers questions from Philadelphia patients about breast augmentation, the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery in the United States according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
Philadelphia, PA — Breast augmentation, or breast enlargement, has long held its distinction as the most popular cosmetic enhancement in the country. Dr. David Bottger, a well-known plastic surgeon in Philadelphia, notes that breast augmentation is the most commonly performed procedure at his practice—a fact that is consistent with recent statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which confirm breast augmentation’s position as the top cosmetic surgery pursued by women as well as the number one aesthetic procedure overall. As an elective surgery capable of enhancing an individual’s confidence and body image through placement of breast implants, Dr. Bottger receives an array of questions from women considering breast augmentation about what they should expect throughout the treatment process. He comments that some of the most frequently asked patient questions typically involve one of three factors: health, timing, and recovery.
It is natural and important for patients to wonder about the potential effects of breast augmentation on their health. In addressing the question of whether breast augmentation may increase the risk of breast cancer, Dr. Bottger comments that this myth has been debunked by several decades of research. Studies suggest that breast augmentation does not increase the risk of developing breast cancer, nor do breast implants delay or impede the detection of cancerous growths (according to evidence from the National Cancer Institute). Furthermore, research indicates that women with breast cancer have the same chances of finding remission regardless of whether or not they have breast implants. There have been select cases linking certain types of breast implants to a cancer of the immune system known as Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL), but Dr. Bottger remarks that this condition is extremely rare. Still, to further ensure the safety of his patients, Dr. Bottger restricts the options offered at his practice to smooth-surfaced implants, which are not typically associated with ALCL. Following a frank discussion about the risks and benefits of cosmetic surgery, Dr. Bottger states that the choice of whether or not to undergo breast augmentation is ultimately a personal decision.
Regarding questions about the best timing to pursue breast augmentation, Dr. Bottger says he often consults patients who believe they are too old for the procedure. More important than age, Dr. Bottger comments, is having realistic expectations for the outcome and being physically and emotionally healthy enough to undergo surgery. Having achieved beautiful results for patients in their fifties and sixties as much as patients in their thirties, Dr. Bottger states that good candidacy for breast augmentation is the ultimate determinant of whether one should consider the procedure. Those who plan to have a family in the future can also pursue breast augmentation if they desire, as the surgery should not interfere with breastfeeding nor does it present any risks to the ability to bear children.
In terms of recovery after the procedure, Dr. Bottger states that the appropriate amount of downtime will be unique to the complexity of your procedure and your own rate of healing. After one day, patients should be able to walk around and practice light ambulation. Most people return to office work within three to seven days, but any physically demanding activities should be avoided for three weeks. Pain is typically considered moderate immediately after surgery and any discomfort, including normal bruising and swelling, should subside over the following days. As recovery progresses, many patients will be eager to resume their regular workout regimens. While Dr. Bottger understands the desire to be active as soon as recovery allows, he notes that patients should wait approximately two to three weeks before exercising to prevent overexertion and/or stress to their incisions. When it is finally possible to safely exercise again, Dr. Bottger suggests starting with lighter workouts and gradually incorporating more intensive exercises.
Lastly, Dr. Bottger wants to reassure individuals that they will be thoroughly educated on the different aspects of breast implants and breast augmentation in person. He encourages a patient-doctor relationship of open communication and mutual trust, ultimately believing that a well-informed patient is the best way to help ensure the highest levels of satisfaction and the most successful results.
About David A. Bottger, MD
Dr. Bottger is a Philadelphia-based plastic surgeon who has been performing cosmetic surgery for over 20 years. While he focuses on aesthetic surgery for the face, breasts, and body, Dr. Bottger also completed a fellowship in hand surgery and is trained in reconstructive procedures. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, as well as a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). In addition to being the founder and lead clinician of his Newtown Square aesthetic surgery practice, Dr. Bottger is also the chief of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Delaware County Memorial Hospital. Dr. Bottger is available for interview upon request.
To learn more, please visit drbottger.com or facebook.com/DrBottger.
Contact:
Dr. David A. Bottger
Philadelphia Main Line
3855 West Chester Pike, Suite 230
Newtown Square, 19073
(610) 227-6120
Rosemont Media
(858) 200-0044
www.rosemontmedia.com