Breast Augmentation Risks and Recovery

All surgeries carry some risk, and the same holds true for cosmetic surgery. While there is a potential for complications after La Jolla breast augmentation, it is important to remember that the overall risk is fairly low and you can help minimize your individual risk of complications by choosing a highly qualified plastic surgeon like Richard Chaffoo, MD, FACS, FICS who uses the latest techniques.

You can read on for more information about possible risks and the ways that they may be avoided. The next crucial step is choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon that you can trust to perform your surgery safely and guide you through the recovery process for the best possible results.

Potential Risks

For the most in-depth information about complications and an assessment of your individual risk profile, you should be sure to ask plenty of questions during your consultation. Complications following a San Diego breast augmentation (enlargement) could include:

• Infection - This is uncommon and can be treated with antibiotics.
• Capsular contracture - This is one of the more common complications of breast augmentation. When capsular contracture occurs, excessive scar tissue will develop and squeeze the implant, causing the breasts to become hard, visibly unbalanced and/or physically uncomfortable.
• Loss of sensation - This is usually temporary and restricted to the nipple and skin.
• Scarring - A skilled surgeon will take steps to minimize the appearance of scars, but the result will depend on many factors, such as incision method and an individual patient's skin type.
• Wrinkling - The implant may appear to have a wrinkled texture on the upper portion of the breast when viewed from certain angles. This is more common with saline implants.
• Asymmetry - As the implants settle into place following surgery, one may rest slightly higher or lower than the other. In most cases this is not noticeable except on close inspection.
• Calcium deposits - These can develop several years after surgery and may make mammograms more difficult to perform.

Each implant type - both saline and silicone gel - has its own safety profile with unique physical characteristics that can affect chance of rupture or other complications. Also, there are other, more general risks that can be associated with surgery of any kind. Dr. Chaffoo will discuss these with you fully during your initial consultation. Request your Complimentary Consultation online or call (858) 997-0096 for an appointment with triple board certified plastic surgeon Richard Chaffoo, MD, FACS, FICS.

Prevention & Recovery

With your surgeon's help, you can go a long way toward preventing complications. Dr. Chaffoo suggests the following after your breast augmentation:

• Give yourself ample time to recover. Enjoy the opportunity to rest, sleep, and relax as much as you need.
• Don't drink alcohol or smoke (for at least two weeks).
• Don't drive (for about the first week).
• Take antibiotics if they are prescribed.
• Sleep on your back (for the first week).
• Avoid heavy lifting, raising your arms above your head, or strenuous exercise for about 3 weeks.
• Wear a support bra if one is given to you (for about a month).

In addition to these guidelines, be sure to follow all of Dr. Chaffoo's post-surgical instructions very carefully. By being a good patient, you are actively participating in the success of your breast augmentation in San Diego.