Breast Augmentationin Tampa

Research has shown that silicone implants do not cause breast cancer. The implants may make it more challenging to find tumors by traditional methods, such as a mammogram, which could delay a cancer diagnosis. Also, there is a minimal but increased risk of developing a rare type of cancer of the immune system called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This cancer can form in the breast tissue but is not the same as breast cancer. This cancer has only been associated with textured breast implants, which are not commonly used for most augmentations.

For most women, breast implants do not prohibit them from breastfeeding. However, roughly 1% to 5% of women who do not have breast implants cannot breastfeed for other medical reasons, and there is no way of knowing before surgery if you fall within this statistic.

By FDA standards, a woman must be at least 18 to receive saline breast implants and at least 22 to receive silicone implants.

The cost of breast augmentation surgery will vary depending on where you have the procedure done and what type of implants you choose. Additionally, if a breast lift is needed, this will also affect the cost of the surgery. The only way to get an exact price quote is to come in for a consultation.

You can expect to have some mild discomfort and pain after breast augmentation surgery. Pain depends on the placement of the implant. In general, submuscular placement is more painful than subglandular placement. Pain is manageable with the proper pain treatment. About 3-7 days post-op, most patients are off strong pain medications and can use an over-the-counter pain reducer, like Tylenol.

Generally speaking, implants have no expiration date. However, they are not meant to be lifetime devices. There is a good chance that over the implant's life, you may have to have a revision procedure to replace the implant and/or alter the breast size or shape around the implant.

A discussion with your board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to find the implant size that is right for you. The ultimate decision will depend on your anatomy, measurements, and overall goals. We also utilize Crisalix, a virtual reality 3D imaging software that can help to visualize different implants on a patient’s 3D rendering to assist in making implant selections.

The swelling should be mostly gone by six weeks. The final results may take up to 3-6 months to be revealed. For more information, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Buchanan.

As mentioned above, vigorous exercise is discouraged for a minimum of two weeks post-surgery to avoid early complications. After that, you can return to regular exercise except for any chest activity (pushing, pulling, and heavy lifting), which will be limited for six weeks after surgery. After six weeks, you can gradually ease back into your everyday routine.

Breasts will fall into their final position typically three to six months post-op.

We recommend elastic, stretchy bras or a surgical compression bra after surgery. Avoid bras with an underwire or lots of internal padding and structure until six weeks after surgery. You want a bra that offers snug compression and good support without being overly tight and distorting the breasts.

We typically recommend anywhere from three to seven days, depending on your individual circumstance and work requirements. Discuss your specific work duties with Dr. Buchanan if there are any questions.