Breast Augmentation FAQ
Breast augmentation is the most common plastic surgery procedure performed by Dr. Michael Devlin in Little Rock, AR. Many patients come to his office unsure of what their best options are. This breast augmentation FAQ can give you a basic understanding of the procedure.
What Is the Average Cost of Breast Implants?
Saline implants start at $3,700 and silicone implants start at $4,700. Dr. Michael Devlin offers a large selection of styles and sizes of breast implants.
Is There a Difference between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants?
In one word: yes. The main difference between saline and silicone is what the implants are made out of. Saline implants are filled with what the name implies, saline. Silicone implants are made of a semi-solid gel. Silicone is thicker than saline so most people believe that silicone implants feel more natural than saline implants.
Pros and Cons of Saline Breast Implants
Pros:
- Lower cost
- Smaller incision
- Easier leak detection
Cons:
- Less natural feel
- Tendency to ripple
Pros and Cons of Silicone/Gel Breast Implants
Pros:
- Feel softer and more natural
- Have less rippling
- Better choice for thinner women with little breast tissue
- Greater variety of styles
Cons:
- Are more expensive
- Require slightly larger incision
- Greater difficulty in detecting rupture
How Long is the Recovery Time for Breast Augmentation ?
The typical recovery time for breast augmentation is 3-4 days, or a long weekend. The recovery period also depends on the placement of the implants, which is either submuscular or subglandular. For implants that are placed underneath the muscle, a pain pump may be used. This pain pump infuses numbing medication (Marcaine) for 24 hours after surgery. This allows for an easier recovery period. Please keep in mind that it can take up to six weeks for the implants to settle into position.
What Size of Implant Is Right for Me?
One of the hardest decisions to make about breast implants is size. This causes most women a lot of anxiety. During your breast augmentation consultation, Dr. Michael Devlin and his dedicated staff spend a considerable amount of time with you. They will discuss your goals, what you would like your breast to look like, and how much larger you would like to be.
Dr. Michael Devlin uses several methods to help with your understanding of sizing. One of the easiest ways is to look at before and after pictures of patients with a body type similar to yours. While your implants size may not match theirs, the pictures allow Dr. Devlin to know what size range and look you like. He provides time to let you try on different sizes of implants in your clothing.
How Do I Choose the Right Breast Implant Surgeon?
You have many choices when it comes to breast augmentation surgeons. Dr. Michael Devlin has over 18 years of experience with breast implant surgery. In addition, Dr. Devlin has lectured nationally on the subject of breast augmentation. He is the first and only breast implant surgeon in Arkansas to offer the T.U.B.A. procedure (transumbilical breast augmentation). He has served as a clinical investigator for both Mentor and Allergan silicone gel implant studies. Dr. Michael Devlin is considered one of the best breast implant surgeons in Arkansas due to his compassionate care and artistic surgical skills.
Will I Lose Sensation in My Nipples?
Nipple sensation is mostly supplied by the fourth intercostal nerve that runs from the side of the chest to the nipple. This nerve can become irritated during breast augmentation surgery. It is very rare to entirely lose nipple sensation. More commonly, we see more women that become hypersensitive for a few weeks after surgery.
When Can I Resume Exercising After Breast Augmentation ?
We ask that you avoid upper body activities for approximately two weeks. If your implants are placed below the muscle, you may find that when you resume weights, you will not be able to begin where you left off. Once you do resume your workouts, it is important to wear a good sports bra.
Where Is the Best Place for Incisions For Breast Augmentation ?
If there is any possibility that you will need a breast lift in the future, Dr. Michael Devlin will always recommend placing the incision in the inframammary crease. This is the crease underneath your breast. He may recommend the inframammary incision if you have small nipples. Otherwise, the areolar approach (around the nipple) is an excellent choice. Incisions fade over time and most scars are hardly noticeable after one year.
How Much Swelling Can I Expect?
Don't worry! There is a lot of swelling that takes place after the surgery. Your implants will most likely sit high on the chest. Over the next few weeks, this swelling will slowly fade and the implants will settle into their natural position. It is not uncommon for the breast to settle at different rates.
How Soon after Breast Augmentation Surgery Can I Tan?
Dr. Devlin will ask that you avoid sun exposure (this includes tanning beds) to the incision site for 6-12 months. When the incisions are exposed to sunlight, it can become "hyperpigmented," meaning the scars can become darker or more red. If you do decide to tan, we recommend covering your incisions with bandages to help prevent this from occurring.
How Do I Know Which Bra Size to Purchase?
Your band size will not change after breast implant surgery. However, your cup size will. If your incision is placed in the inframammary crease, Dr. Michael Devlin recommends that you do not wear an underwire bra for the first six weeks. During your consultation, Dr. Devlin will measure you and have you try on our bras. Please remember that different brands of bras will fit differently. It also important to try the bra on before you purchase it. Try not to get too focused on a bra size. It is more important to find an implant that you like in your clothing and then purchase a bra that fits.
Contact Us to Learn More
If you have further questions regarding breast implants and breast augmentation, please send us a message, or call us directly at (501) 227-8811.
