FAQs
Plastic Surgery FAQs
Initially after surgery the swelling behaves like a volume displacement that distorts the final result. As the breasts settle, the muscle and tissues relax and the volume redistributes to its proper positioning. The size does not change once the swelling subsides, but the shape does.
Yes, you can always go bigger. For primary breast surgery, it is crucial to choose an implant size that fits the tissues to prevent stretch or post-operative complications and ensure longevity. After the first year, once the tissues have adjusted to fit the initial implant, you can safely go up in size.
There may be a slight expansion of the nipples and areolas after implant placement, but choosing the proper implant based on your tissues minimizes this risk.
Yes, it is rare to lose full sensation. It takes two years for the nerves to recover after any surgical procedure, but with time the sensation typically returns.
No! With expert surgical technique and high-quality scar therapy, scars should not be feared. It takes 2 years for a scar to fully mature, so it’s important to be diligent about scar care early on. We start all our patients on an advanced scar therapy regimen 4-6 weeks after surgery. Additionally, scars are vulnerable to UV Rays during the first year of scar maturation, so ramping up SPF usage is critical.
Stretch marks are generally a genetic predisposition so it depends on the patient. However, choosing an implant based on your tissue measurements, it is highly unlikely to experience stretch marks.
The swelling improves on a weekly basis during the first 6-8 weeks, but ultimately it takes a minimum of 6-12 months for the surgical site to settle.
No, breast implants do not need to be replaced every 10 years or at any other specific annual timeframe. The current generation of implants are advanced and built to last. At 20+ years, 90% of breast implants are still intact. With ultrasound screenings every 5 years, you can effectively monitor the integrity of the implants and ensure longevity.
Galaflex scaffold is different from standard ‘mesh’ devices. It is a bioabsorbable device that is made of P4HB, an advanced biologically derived polymer that is a component of human connective tissue. Dr. Adams uses it to support, repair, and reinforce tissue. It is predominantly used in breast lift or breast reduction causes to minimize the risk of stretching and is used in breast revision cases to behave like the body’s own collagen and promote restoration of damaged tissue. Galaflex (P4HB) is FDA approved scaffold for sift-tissue reinforcement in plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures. The FDA does not consider the breast to be soft tissue and therefore P4HB is used off-label for breast procedures.
Both Saline and Silicone implants are made with a silicone shell. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and Silicone with silicone gel. Both types of implants are safe, however silicone implants feel more natural, provide more longevity with a lower rupture rate, and are less damaging to the tissues.
No. Our patients are cleared to return to all physical activity at 6 weeks, including upper body and chest exercises of any style, with any weight amount.
For patient safety and satisfaction, all surgical procedures are done under general anesthesia. We use industry-leading Board-Certified anesthesiologists.
Local anesthetic is used for noninvasive, in-office procedures.
Absolutely. We see patients on a weekly basis that come from all over the globe. Refer to our Out Of Town Patients resources page to learn more about the seamless process. When it comes to plastic surgery, going the distance for expert care is worth it.
Breast implants do not interfere with mammograms, nor do mammograms impact implant integrity. Experienced mammographers are trained to view breast tissue along with breast implants and make technical modifications to properly examine the breasts. Mammograms are lifesaving; breast implants are not a deterrent for regular testing.
If you have more questions about plastic surgery,
contact us today and we will provide you with the information you need.
Schedule Your Consultation
Take the first step toward the results you’ve always imagined.
Dr. Adams and his team guide you through every step of your journey.