Breast Augmentation: Preparing for the Procedure

Breast Augmentation: Preparing for the Procedure

If you're unhappy with the size of your breasts, you may have decided to undergo a breast augmentation procedure. Breast augmentation, also commonly referred to as breast enlargement, is a very popular cosmetic surgery that uses implants to increase the size of the breasts. There are primarily two different types of implants – silicone and saline. Silicone is the most well-known. These come pre-filled in a variety of sizes and generally require a slightly larger incision to place them into the chest cavity than silicone implants, which are inserted empty and then filled to the desired size with saline solution. 

Although most breast augmentation procedures are very straightforward, undergoing the right preparatory steps is essential for minimizing your risk of complications and ensuring that your recovery is as smooth as possible. Here are tips for preparing for a breast augmentation procedure. 

Preparing for a Breast Augmentation

Any type of surgery requires you to take certain steps to help ensure your procedure goes as smoothly as possible, and breast augmentation is no different. Some of the preparatory steps that your surgeon will advise you take will include the following:

 

At least two weeks before your surgery

• Boost your natural health and immunity by eating a nutritious and balanced diet and drinking plenty of water.

• Do not smoke. Smoking has been proven to increase your risk of complications during any sort of surgery. It will also prolong your recovery. 

• Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol thins the blood which will increase any bruising and prolong the healing process. 

• Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen. Again, these interfere with blood clotting, and this could potentially increase your risks during surgery and extend the healing process. Instead, stick to a painkiller recommended by your surgeon. 

• Avoid herbal supplements. If you would usually take herbal supplements, these should be avoided in the few weeks of surgery. This is because they can interfere with the anesthesia that will be given. The only natural supplement that is recommended is arnica cream as this can be used to help reduce bruising. 

A week before your surgery

• Arrange for someone to drive you to your appointment and take you home after as you will not be able to drive yourself. 

• Prepare your home as best as you can by taking care of all chores and ensuring you have a comfortable space to rest and recover.

• Prepare meals in advance. These can be frozen and will ensure that you can continue to eat healthily with minimal effort while you recuperate following your procedure. 

• Plan what you are wearing to your surgery. Button-front shirts are ideal since they will put the least strain on your body when you redress. 

• If you have young children, ensure that you have someone who can help you out with their care while you recover. 

The night before your surgery

• Wash your hair and cleanse your body with antibacterial soap.

• Have a healthy dinner, then do not eat anything for at least 12 hours before your surgery. This is because if your stomach isn’t completely empty, there is a chance that you could regurgitate while under anesthesia. You should also avoid drinking anything for at least 8 hours before surgery.

• Get a great night of sleep! 

Following the pre-procedure instructions given to you by your surgeon is the best way to ensure that you are fully prepared for your breast augmentation procedure and the recovery period you will experience. Contact our expert plastic surgery team in Plano, TX.