Your First Breast Implants? What To Expect Before and After

Breast augmentation is an exciting experience, especially if you are looking forward to boosting your self-esteem and body image with your first breast implants. While there are numerous benefits to getting implants, many women are unaware of what actually goes into the procedure. At Mizuguchi Plastic Surgery in Louisville, KY, we assist patients through the three essential phases of breast augmentation: consultation, surgery, and recovery. Dual board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon Dr. Nana Mizuguchi guides patients through each stage to ensure you get the lasting results you want. To learn more about this process and whether breast augmentation is right for you, read the following information and reach out to our professional facility today. 

Part 1: The Consultation 

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that allows women to have beautiful, shapely breasts. Since this procedure involves an investment of time and money, it is important to think about your cosmetic goals and what you want to get out of the treatment. Before placing your first breast implants, Dr. Mizuguchi will schedule a private appointment to discuss your options. This consultation is an important part of getting the final outcome you are looking for. Ideal candidates for new breast implants are patients who: 

• Want to improve the size and shape of their breasts
• Have naturally asymmetrical or disproportionate breasts 
• Have experienced a loss of firmness due to aging, weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Would like to restore breast shape following a mastectomy or lumpectomy

During the consultation, Dr. Mizuguchi can show you before-and-after photos with different implants so you can understand what to expect. As a skilled plastic surgeon, he can offer personal recommendations based on his knowledge. He will also give you information about silicone and saline implants to determine the final firmness and shape of your breasts. 

Part 2: The Surgery

Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient surgery at Mizuguchi Plastic Surgery in Louisville, KY. We will administer medication for your comfort during the procedure. The main choices include general anesthesia and intravenous sedation, but Dr. Mizuguchi will recommend the best option for you beforehand. 

Incisions are made in specific areas to minimize the appearance of scarring. Many practitioners choose to cut under the breasts, underneath the arms, or around the nipples. Your first breast implants will be placed under or over the pectoral muscle based on the implant type and degree of enlargement. Dr. Mizuguchi will make suggestions based on your body type and what will give you the most optimal results. 

Once the new breast implants are inserted, we will suture the incision closed and place you in a comfortable recovery area to be monitored. Your breasts will be wrapped in gauze or bandages for support as they heal. Before you go home, Mizuguchi Plastic Surgery will give you specific instructions about caring for your breasts after surgery, medications to take, and how to reduce your risk of infection. It is important to follow all of these instructions carefully. Feel free to bring up any questions or concerns you may have about the recovery process with our experienced team. 

Part 3: The Recovery 

After surgery, patients tend to feel some discomfort, so Dr. Mizuguchi may prescribe pain medication. Bruising and swelling will last about 1 – 2 weeks, so we suggest taking it easy so your body can heal. While recovery is not difficult, you will feel sore and tired. For this reason, you may want to schedule assistance from a trusted friend or family member who can help with household chores or childcare. To make things easier before and after augmentation, Mizuguchi Plastic Surgery offers the following tips: 

• Sleep is essential. For the first few days, set aside a quiet space to rest without interruption. Put together some pillows so you can you sleep upright – this will help reduce some of the swelling and discomfort. 
• Prepare for surgery in advance. Stock your kitchen with premade meals and healthy snacks. You may feel nauseated from the anesthesia, so light foods are usually best. Remember to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. 
• Do not push yourself too hard. Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for several weeks while you heal. You should also avoid strenuous activities or exercise for at least eight weeks, or until Dr. Mizuguchi has cleared you to do so. 

While full recovery generally takes between 6 – 8 weeks, every patient’s experience is different. Over time, you will notice an improvement in the definition and shape of your breasts. To keep your body in top condition, continue to develop healthy habits such as a regular diet and exercise program. If you stopped smoking before getting surgery, try to stick with that plan for a healthier lifestyle moving forward. 

Call Mizuguchi Plastic Surgery 

Getting new breast implants can seem intimidating at first. Breast augmentation surgery is a common cosmetic procedure that has been performed numerous times by Dr. Nana Mizuguchi. We have personally seen how breast implants can produce stunning results for patients at our clinic. If you would like to learn more about the process before and after augmentation, or if you desire a fuller bust and a more enhanced figure, call Mizuguchi Plastic Surgery in Louisville, KY, today to schedule your consultation.