In recent years, the popularity of breast augmentation surgery has skyrocketed – in part due to technological and medical advancements that have made the procedure relatively routine and convenient for patients. Still, women considering breast implants should know what to expect and understand that there is some recovery time required. In this blog, our plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta discuss what symptoms may develop during breast augmentation recovery and, more specifically, how long nipple discomfort may last.
What is the process of getting breast implants?
The first step in breast augmentation surgery is for the patient to undergo an initial consultation. This will allow us to evaluate the patient’s anatomy, discuss her history and goals, and determine if breast implants may be right for her. Additionally, this provides an opportunity for eligible candidates to make important decisions about their breast implants, such as:
- Implant type: saline or silicone gel
- Implant placement: above or beneath the muscle
- Implant profile: low, medium, or high
- Incision placement: inframammary, transaxillary, or periareolar
- Lift or no lift
- Implant size
To assist patients in making their selections, we utilize the cutting-edge 3-D Vectra imaging system, which creates a visual simulation of how various implants will look on the patient’s own body. Once these details have been set, surgery will be scheduled. We will use the most appropriate surgical approach and incision placement based on individual patient factors. Once a pocket has been created in the breast, the Keller Funnel is used to insert the implant and minimize the risk of postoperative complications. At the conclusion of the case, your surgeon will close the incisions.
How will I feel after breast augmentation surgery?
Patients should expect some pain, swelling, and bruising during the first few weeks of their breast augmentation recovery. Additionally, some women report a feeling of tenderness, burning, soreness, or general discomfort in their nipples. This is typically due to pressure or manipulation of the nerves.
When will nipple pain go away after a breast augmentation?
For most women, nipple pain associated with breast implants resolves within about six to eight weeks, at which time the majority of their postoperative swelling should also subside. In some cases, the process can take longer. It is rare for nipple pain to be long-lasting or permanent after a breast augmentation.
Another possible side effect of breast augmentation is the loss of sensation in the nipples, which may result from the severing of nerves during surgery. This is a normal, expected, and usually temporary symptom, though it may take up to 12 – 18 months for patients to fully regain feeling in their nipples. In rare cases, nipple numbness may be long-term. Once patients reach the two-year mark after surgery, their nipple symptoms are unlikely to change further. Generally speaking, most women regain normal nipple sensation and overall feeling in their breasts without complication.
Give your figure a feminine boost with breast augmentation surgery in Atlanta, GA
Are you self-conscious about the appearance of your breasts after having children or losing weight, or have you always had naturally small breasts that have left you wanting more? In either case, you may be a candidate for breast augmentation surgery. Take the first step toward feeling more confident and feminine than ever by calling Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta to schedule your private consultation today.