Breast augmentation is a serious surgical procedure that does have its share of risks.
Like all surgical procedures, it should not be entered into lightly.
With this in mind, there are things women and their doctors can do to minimize the chances of complications arising during and after surgery.
A LOOK AT THE RISKS Even if breast augmentation is performed for purely cosmetic reasons, it is still a surgical procedure.
During this operation, patients are generally put under anesthesia or given twilight sedation medication and local anesthesia.
The procedure itself does involve incisions and the implantation of medical-grade devices.
Inasmuch, complications can sometimes arise.
The most common risks associated with breast augmentation and other surgical procedures include: o Infection - Any time a surgical procedure is performed, there is a risk of infection in the post-operative days.
o Pain - This is the most common "side effect" of surgery, no matter its type or purpose.
o Bleeding - Some minor bleeding in the surgical site is expected, but heavy bleeding is not.
If heavy bleeding occurs, it is a reason to contact a doctor.
o Fainting - Lightheadedness, dizziness and even fainting are not at all uncommon following any surgical procedure.
o Allergic reactions - Allergies to medications, surgical equipment and even reactions to anesthesia are possible with any surgical procedure.
o Capsular contracture which is reported in the literature in the order of 5 - 7 %.
HOW YOU CAN HELP MINIMIZE THE RISKS There are things women and their doctors can do to help minimize the risks of breast augmentation surgery.
Some of the most proactive steps women can take to lower their chances of complications include: o Selecting a skilled doctor - This should be the first and foremost concern.
When a skilled doctor with a reputation and track record of safe surgical outcomes is selected to perform the operation, he or she will do everything necessary to prevent complications and risks from presenting.
o Being very honest with the doctor in the pre-surgical days - Doctors need to be apprised of such things as allergies, illnesses and medical history.
It is imperative that patients share their histories and any problems they have had in the past with surgical procedures, medications and even common operating room gear, such as latex gloves.
o Selecting a doctor that uses twilight sedation - This is an alternative to general anesthesia that can reduce the risks of being put under in the traditional fashion.
When used in conjunction with local anesthesia, patients are properly safeguarded from surgical pain without the potential complications of going under general anesthesia.
o Following all pre- and post-surgical orders - It is very important for women to follow pre-operative instructions and post-operative instructions, as well.
These are designed to reduce risks and make the surgery and recovery period flow as smoothly as possible.
o Reporting any concerns immediately - One of the biggest things women can do to help themselves is to keep the lines of communication open with their doctors in the days following surgery.
If questions or concerns arise, call.
It is better to err on the side of caution than to worry about "bothering" a doctor.
Breast augmentation surgeries are performed all over the world with few complications.
There are, however, some risks associated with this procedure.
Taking the right steps to minimize risks can greatly improve the outcome and ease the recovery period.