During a recent luncheon with a good friend we over heard a discussion about breast enhancement at the table next to us. My friend made a comment about celebrities and the type of woman who would undergo such a procedure and I began thinking about the wide variety of women I know who have altered their breasts with delightful results.

The real truth is that there is no single profile for a woman who simply wishes to feel better about her body. If she is a young woman or a mother of eight, there are no set rules for how we should feel about our breasts. Below are some commonly asked questions along with straightforward answers.

Bear in mind that only a qualified doctor is able to evaluate physical conditions and discuss an individual plan of action.

What is the Best Type of Material For Use in Implants?

We have all heard some frightening stories about silicone implants breaking and leaking into the body. Other types of materials have used as well. It would now appear after many scientific studies have been done, that indeed, a cohesive silicone gel implant is the safest after all.

What about the Scar?

This is normally one of the first questions asked during initial consultations. There are a few choices to be made in most circumstances. An incision may be made under the ridge of the breast. The breast

would cover the tiny, hairline scar. Another choice is around the nipple which is all but invisible due to the outline of the nipple itself.

Where Do They Actually Place the Implant?

Normally, the implant is placed right behind a woman’s own breast tissue. You can still breastfeed after the implant which is wonderful news. There are other options should this not be possible.

Will I Be Completely Sedated During the Operation?

Yes. In most cases the patient is sedated and wakes up in a normal recovery room environment.

What Could Go Wrong?

There are rare cases where the woman may be prone to excess bleeding, may contract an infection or the body may react to the implant as a foreign object and then encapsulate it.

How Long Until I Can Move Normally?

The doctor will remove the stitches after one week. You are not to lift heavy objects or extend your arms in an abnormal way for 6 weeks. Please discuss post operative care and all concerns with your physician.