The decision to undergo breast augmentation usually follows one or more consultations, many questions, and a great deal of thought. However, perhaps even more difficult than deciding to have the surgery itself is the process of selecting the appropriate size of implant. Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev and the expert staff at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY, are dedicated to providing an exceptional level of care to Long Island-area breast augmentation patients. They will discuss your needs, goals, and more in order to help you choose the implant size that will best achieve your ideal look.
Bigger isn’t always better
When most people think about breast augmentation, one of the first things that comes to mind is a significantly oversized chest area. However, breast augmentation is often used simply to restore a more natural and youthful breast size for women who have experienced a loss in tissue volume after childbirth or breastfeeding. Many patients who have naturally small breasts use breast augmentation to achieve a more average-sized chest that better fits their frame. In fact, more and more women are now electing to have smaller implants placed for a variety of reasons, some of the most common including:
- Active lifestyle: For patients who enjoy an active lifestyle, the idea of getting breast augmentation might seem like it would interfere with their ability to exercise or engage in other physical activity. While it is generally true that women with larger breasts have more complaints associated with activities like running and playing sports, there are a number of options to help with these issues including supportive clothing. For active women who would like to have larger breasts but maintain their ability to comfortably pursue fitness and other activities, breast augmentation with smaller implants can be a perfect solution.
- Physical comfort: Most people have heard of someone who has undergone a breast reduction due to back pain, neck pain, and other issues related to having large breasts. With the strain that excessively large breasts can put on the body, many women experience significant physical discomfort that is difficult to resolve or avoid with supportive garments alone. The possibility of chronic pain associated with large breasts leads many Long Island, NY, breast augmentation patients to opt for smaller implants that can be better supported by their frame.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, personal taste and preference most often influence women in the selection of their breast implant size, whether they opt for larger or smaller implants. Some women prefer a smaller implant so they can continue wearing a certain style of clothing comfortably, while others are conscious of maintaining a natural and more subtle look that is better achieved with smaller implants.
Regardless of the reasons you may be considering breast augmentation with smaller implants, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY, will thoroughly evaluate your case, discuss your needs and goals, answer all of your questions, and help you select an appropriately sized implant for your lifestyle and aesthetic goals.
What can I expect from the procedure?
Once you decide on a size for your implants and whether you prefer silicone or saline, your surgery will be scheduled. Breast augmentation is performed as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia and typically takes about 1 – 2 hours, though it can take additional time if you are undergoing any other procedures simultaneously, such as a breast lift. Your surgeon will insert your implants through small incisions and secure them either above or below the muscle. Once the surgeon is satisfied with the symmetry and look of the breasts, he or she will close the incisions with sutures and place drains if necessary.
Following breast augmentation, patients can expect some swelling and bruising that generally resolves fairly quickly. Some discomfort is normal and can be controlled with pain medication. It is important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions closely, including adhering to any restrictions on physical activity. In most cases, patients will need full-time assistance for the first 24 – 48 hours, particularly if they have young children, as any lifting is strictly prohibited. The majority of patients are able to resume normal daily activities, with the exception of exercise, strenuous activity, and lifting, within 7 – 10 days after the surgery. However, it is important to follow the specific guidelines given to you by your doctor.
How do I get started?
The most critical step in choosing to undergo breast augmentation is to select a qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable physician. Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev have performed numerous Long Island-area breast implant procedures and are experts in the field. The professional medical team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery will take the time to educate you on implant types, sizes, and procedure techniques in order to create a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Call our office to schedule your consultation today, and learn more about how breast augmentation — whether significant or subtle — can enhance your look, boost your confidence, and change your life!
