Is breast augmentation on your wish list before the holidays? If so, you might have some questions about the procedure and how to find out if you could be a good candidate for breast enhancement. Or, maybe you’re not sure if gifting someone who’s been wishing for breast implants is appropriate. Here’s all you need to know about getting and gifting breast augmentation.
How to Pick a Plastic Surgeon
The first step before any plastic surgery procedure is to choose the right plastic surgeon for the job. This should take a little time and research on your part before making a few phone calls and scheduling a consultation or two. The most important qualifications to look for during your research are:
- Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Memberships to accredited medical associations such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Medical Association
- Before and after breast augmentation photos
- Positive online reviews from real patients
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, schedule an office visit with your top one or two picks. Use this time to discuss your goals in detail, ask questions about your procedure and his or her experience and help you decide if you feel comfortable working with this particular plastic surgeon.
What to Expect before Breast Augmentation
Before your breast enhancement, you’ll first set up a consultation with your plastic surgeon to discuss the details of your procedure. Some of the surgical options you’ll want to discuss include:
- Implant size, type and profile
- Implant placement
- Incision technique
Your breast implant profile refers to the amount that it projects outward from your chest.
In the weeks leading up to your procedure, you should maintain a healthy, stable weight, avoid smoking and make arrangements for some extra help while you recover. Winter is a great time of year to schedule breast enhancement, since most people have extra time to take away from work this time of year, and you don’t have to worry about staying out of the sun or pool.
What to Expect after Breast Augmentation
Every woman is going to recover at her own pace after plastic surgery. But generally speaking, you should be able to get back to work and light activities within about a week after breast augmentation. You’ll still need to avoid strenuous activities for the next few weeks, and follow your plastic surgeon’s recovery guidelines to ensure optimal results.
You will likely be asked to wear a special surgical bra directly after your procedure. Talk to your plastic surgeon about when you can switch to a comfortable sports bra without underwire.
Some swelling, bruising and tenderness are to be expected after breast augmentation, but these symptoms should gradually improve over the next days and weeks.
Should I Gift Breast Enhancement?
If you’re thinking about gifting someone breast enhancement surgery by offering to pay all or some of the associated costs, there are a few things you need to consider first:
- Is this really a gift that they want? Don’t offer to pay for breast augmentation out of the blue if they’ve never mentioned it themselves.
- Is your partner or loved one sure they want breast augmentation? A gift could seem like added pressure if they haven’t made up their mind just yet.
- Is your loved one already planning on getting breast enhancement surgery? If so, offering to pay for the surgery as a gift could be appropriate, since she’s already made up her mind without knowing about the gift.
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
