Plastic Surgeon Serving North Andover, Boston, Haverhill, MA - Nashua, Salem, Manchester, NH & Nearby Areas
Am I a candidate for breast augmentation?
If you are dissatisfied with the size of your breasts, you are most likely a candidate for breast augmentation. Additionally, you are a good candidate for breast augmentation if:
- You have realistic expectations of what breast augmentation can achieve.
- You are in good overall health.
- You are at least 22 years old, if you want silicone gel breast implants, or at least 18 years old for saline breast implants.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. George P. Chatson can help you determine if breast augmentation is the best way to achieve the look you want.
How do I choose a breast implant size?
Size, as well as breast implant type and other options, are discussed during your breast augmentation consultation. We use devices called sizers, which are placed within a sports bra to give you an idea of how different sizes may appear on your body frame. Dr. Chatson and his plastic surgery team take measurements of your breasts and chest to determine a range of possible breast implant sizes. Dr. Chatson evaluates any differences between your breasts, if present, and he considers these factors in planning for the best possible surgical result.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. Like other medical devices, breast implants are susceptible to wear and routine aging. You should plan to have another breast augmentation at some point to replace your original breast implants. Generally, breast implants last about 15 to 20 years, although this length of time can vary with each patient.
Will I have visible scars from breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation does leave permanent scars at the incision location; however, incisions are placed as inconspicuously as possible. A scar can be hidden in the fold under the breast (inframammary), along the lower edge of the areola (periareolar), or under the armpit (transaxillary). Immediately after your breast augmentation, your scar may appear pink and raised. Over the next several months to a year, your scar will become flatter and lighten in color. Patients utilize scar cream massage and/or gel sheet application on scars to heal with the best possible appearance.
How will I know if I need a breast lift in addition to breast implants?
During your personal consultation with Dr. Chatson, his examination of your breast size and breast skin envelope will allow him to determine if you might benefit from breast lift (mastopexy) at the time of breast augmentation. It is not unusual for patients to need both a lift and implants to achieve the desired breast appearance.
How long will I need to be absent from work after my breast augmentation?
For most types of jobs, you will be able to return to work within a week or less after your breast augmentation. For jobs involving heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need to wait two to three weeks before returning to full-duty work.
To learn more about breast augmentation for women living in Andover, Massachusetts, and Nashua or Manchester, New Hampshire, please contact George P. Chatson, MD, to schedule an initial consultation. You are also welcome to call one of our convenient office locations: 978-687-1151 (Massachusetts) or 603-882-2103 (New Hampshire).
