The Woodlands Plastic Surgeons

What Are Some Risks I Can Expect Getting Breast Augmentation and How to Prevent Them?

I have read testimonials and seen many a pictures of boob jobs gone wrong. My greatest fear is that the implants will 'bottom out' (when the implants drop and patients nipples are pointed skyward), and double-bubbling. Visually both are VERY unappealing, I would like to know what causes this, how to avoid it, and how often this actually happens to patients?

Your concern is valid.  In any elective surgery, we want to avoid any complication.  There are potential risks of surgery, most commonly bleeding and infection as well as scar and pain.  Breast augmentation is a very safe procedure when done to healthy patient, and by a qualified plastic surgeon.  There is a potential for double bubble or bottoming out when implants are too large or when the implant pocket is dissected to low.  However, this is rare as well.  You should talk with plastic surgeon who will allay your concerns.  As any surgery, there is a potential risk/complication; however, when they are done by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, that risk should be very low.

Sugene Kim, MD

Houston Plastic Surgeon

I Am Still Experiencing Quite a Bit of Pain Since my Breast Augmentation 3 Months Ago, is This Normal?

I had my surgery on October 18th 2012 and I am still experiencing tenderness on my breasts. Particularly in the nipples. My scars are also still bumpy and my breasts haven't fully dropped and still look a little funny. Is this normal after more than 3 months after surgery? Thank you for your help.

What you are describing seems to be from nerve pain.  This may persist several months to year.  Occasional shooting pain/sensitivity  to nipples is common after breast augmentation.  In regards to implant positioning, most implants do settle in 3 months; however, depending on patients, it may take a little longer.  If you had a very tight skin or muscle, it would take longer for the implants to drop down to their final location.  I would continue massaging the implants and scars and follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Sugene Kim, MD

Houston Plastic Surgeon

How Long Does It Take for Breasts to Look Even After Breast Implants?

I am almost 5 1/2 weeks postop Breast Augmentation with a lift. I had 440 cc implants placed under the muscle. My left breast had more swelling, pain and bruising right after surgery. The swelling in my left breast has come down but still looks bigger than my right. I had my one month follow up appt with my surgeon and he thinks I'm healing great. He thinks that my left breast swelling will continue to go down and even out with my right breast by 3 months. Is this a realistic expectation ?

It normally takes at least 2-3 months for the implants to settle down in their pocket.  When more work was done (i.e. breast lift), it may take longer to obtain the final result.  It is difficult to have the patience after the surgery.  You should listen to your plastic surgeon unless you had a reason not to.  Please remember that each breast heals at different rate; breasts are always a little asymmetric before and after surgery.  

Sugene Kim, MD

Houston Plastic Surgeon