Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, offering women the opportunity to enhance their breast size and shape, boost their confidence, and achieve a more balanced figure. Whether you’re seeking breast augmentation for aesthetic reasons or to restore breast volume after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, proper preparation is key to achieving the best possible results.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about preparing for your breast augmentation procedure. From choosing the right surgeon and implants to following pre-surgery guidelines, Dr. Ali Sajjadian, a leading plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, CA, shares expert insights to help you feel confident and ready for your transformative journey.

1. Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

The first and most important step in preparing for breast augmentation is choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. This decision will have a significant impact on the outcome of your surgery and your overall experience. Here’s why it matters:

• Experience and Expertise: A board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Sajjadian, has undergone rigorous training and passed extensive examinations in plastic surgery, ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge to perform your procedure safely and effectively.
• Safety and Results: A board-certified surgeon is committed to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety, surgical techniques, and post-operative care. This ensures that your breast augmentation will be performed in a licensed facility with the highest level of care.
• Aesthetic Vision: Your surgeon’s experience and artistic eye play a critical role in helping you achieve natural-looking, beautiful results tailored to your body’s proportions.

When selecting a surgeon, it’s essential to schedule a consultation where you can ask questions, review before-and-after photos, and discuss your goals. Dr. Sajjadian and his team take pride in providing personalized care and using the latest techniques to help you achieve your desired results.

2. Understand Your Breast Implant Options

Once you’ve chosen a skilled surgeon, the next step in your preparation is selecting the right breast implants. This decision involves several factors, including implant type, size, shape, and placement. Here’s an overview of the key considerations:

Implant Types

• Silicone Gel Implants: These implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Silicone implants are a popular choice due to their soft, natural feel and durability. They are FDA-approved for patients over the age of 22.
• Saline Implants: Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution and can be adjusted for size during surgery. They are typically firmer than silicone implants but may be more prone to visible rippling in certain body types. Saline implants are FDA-approved for patients 18 and older.
• Gummy Bear Implants: These form-stable silicone implants maintain their shape even if the outer shell is compromised. Gummy bear implants are a great option for women looking for a firmer, natural shape, especially for those with less natural breast tissue.

Implant Size

Choosing the right implant size is critical to achieving the look you want while maintaining natural proportions. Your surgeon will consider factors like:

• Your Body Frame: The size of your chest wall, shoulders, and overall body frame will influence the implant size that looks most natural.
• Breast Shape and Tissue: The current shape and amount of breast tissue you have will help determine how large your implants can be while achieving balanced results.
• Desired Outcome: Whether you want a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, it’s important to communicate your goals with your surgeon, who will help you choose the right size to meet your expectations.

Implant Shape

• Round Implants: These implants provide a fuller appearance and are ideal for women looking to enhance both upper and lower breast volume. Round implants can create a soft, natural look or a more enhanced, “full” appearance, depending on the size and placement.
  • Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants: These implants have a more natural, sloped shape, mimicking the natural contour of the breast. Teardrop implants are ideal for women who want a subtle enhancement with a more natural appearance.

Implant Placement

Dr. Sajjadian will also discuss the placement of your implants:

• Submuscular (Under the Muscle): Placing the implant beneath the chest muscle provides a more natural contour and reduces the risk of visible implant edges. It’s a common choice for women with minimal natural breast tissue.
  • Subglandular (Above the Muscle): Placing the implant above the muscle is typically recommended for women with more natural breast tissue and can result in a quicker recovery. However, it may be less suitable for women with thin or tight skin.

3. Preparing Your Body for Surgery

In the weeks leading up to your breast augmentation, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your body is in the best possible condition for surgery and recovery.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein will help support healing after surgery. Incorporate foods like leafy greens, lean protein, and healthy fats to boost your immune system and aid tissue repair.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated before surgery is essential for overall health and helps your body prepare for the healing process. Drink plenty of water in the weeks leading up to your procedure.
• Exercise: Regular exercise helps keep your body in optimal condition and supports a healthy immune system. Light cardiovascular activities, such as walking or swimming, can improve circulation and reduce stress leading up to your surgery. However, avoid any strenuous chest or upper body exercises in the weeks before surgery to prevent muscle strain.

Quit Smoking

If you smoke, it’s crucial to quit at least four weeks before your breast augmentation. Smoking constricts blood vessels and reduces the amount of oxygen delivered to tissues, which can impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It’s also essential to avoid smoking during your recovery period to ensure your safety and the best results.

Avoid Certain Medications and Supplements

Some medications and supplements can interfere with blood clotting and increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. Your surgeon will provide a list of medications to avoid, which may include:

• Aspirin and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
  • Blood-thinning medications
  • Certain herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba)

Always inform your surgeon of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking so they can advise you on which to stop or adjust before surgery.

4. Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

Preparing for breast augmentation is not just about physical readiness—it’s also important to ensure that you’re mentally and emotionally prepared for your surgery and recovery. Here are a few tips to help you approach your procedure with confidence:

Set Realistic Expectations

While breast augmentation can deliver transformative results, it’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome. Every patient’s body is unique, and results can vary based on factors like your anatomy, the type of implants you choose, and the skill of your surgeon. Having an open, honest conversation with your surgeon about your goals and what can be achieved is key to feeling satisfied with your results.

Manage Pre-Surgery Anxiety

It’s normal to feel anxious or nervous before any surgery. To help ease pre-surgery jitters:

• Educate Yourself: Understanding the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process can help reduce anxiety. Your surgeon will explain everything in detail during your consultation.
  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help you relax and stay calm in the days leading up to your surgery.
  • Lean on Support: Share your feelings with friends or family members who can offer encouragement and support throughout the process.

Plan for Time Off and Recovery

Breast augmentation requires time for proper healing, and it’s essential to plan for adequate rest and recovery after your procedure. Most patients take about one to two weeks off from work, depending on the nature of their job. During this time, it’s important to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and any movements that could strain the chest muscles.

Here are a few practical steps to prepare for recovery:

• Arrange Transportation: You’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery and possibly assist with daily activities for the first few days.
  • Prepare Your Home: Set up a comfortable recovery space with pillows, blankets, and entertainment. Keep essentials like water, snacks, medications, and reading material within reach.
  • Stock Up on Essentials: Before your surgery, fill any prescriptions your surgeon provides, and stock your home with easy-to-prepare foods. Have comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on hand, particularly tops that button in the front to avoid lifting your arms over your head.

5. The Day of Surgery

On the day of your breast augmentation, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-Surgery Guidelines

Dr. Sajjadian will provide specific pre-operative instructions, which typically include:

• Fasting: You’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for 8–12 hours before surgery, especially if you’re undergoing general anesthesia.
  • Bathing: Shower with an antibacterial soap the night before or the morning of surgery to help reduce the risk of infection.
  • No Jewelry or Makeup: Avoid wearing makeup, jewelry, or contact lenses to the surgical center. These items can interfere with the procedure.

Arriving at the Surgical Center

Arrive at the surgical center as instructed, usually about an hour before your scheduled procedure. You’ll meet with your surgical team, who will go over any final details and ensure you’re comfortable and ready. Once you’re under anesthesia, the surgery typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of your case.

6. Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

Proper post-surgical care is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome from your breast augmentation. Here’s what to expect during recovery:

Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery

After the procedure, you’ll be taken to a recovery room, where medical staff will monitor you as the anesthesia wears off. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but your surgeon will prescribe medications to manage any pain.

Most patients can return home the same day, but it’s important to have a responsible adult accompany you. You’ll need plenty of rest during the first 24–48 hours after surgery.

Follow-Up Appointments

Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to check your healing progress and remove any sutures or dressings. It’s important to attend all follow-up visits to ensure that your recovery is progressing smoothly and to address any concerns.

Learn More

Preparing for your breast augmentation is a comprehensive process that involves choosing the right surgeon, selecting your implants, and ensuring your body and mind are ready for surgery. By following these steps and maintaining open communication with your plastic surgeon, you’ll be well-equipped to achieve beautiful, lasting results. Dr. Ali Sajjadian and his team in Newport Beach are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the journey, ensuring a smooth, successful experience from consultation to recovery.

If you’re considering breast augmentation, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sajjadian to discuss your goals and learn more about the procedure. With proper preparation and expert care, you can look forward to achieving the figure you’ve always desired.