Breast augmentation is one of the most requested types of plastic surgery. The process involves changing the size and look of the breasts to something more aesthetically pleasing to the patient.

While many women want breast augmentation, not everyone is a candidate. Before any plastic surgeon commits to the procedure, they have to know that you are healthy both physically and mentally. After the successful surgery, there is a healing process. This can be moderately painful. You will have to follow strict instructions after surgery to ensure you get the best results.

Pros and Cons of Saline vs. Silicone Implants

Plastic surgeons use either silicone or saline implants. They both have pros and cons. You and your doctor can determine which best suits your procedure.

Saline implants are the simplest and cause the least number of problems. Doctors place deflated shells inside the breast area after making an incision. The shells are then filled up with saline. These implants tend to be very firm. And if there is a rip, the saline will simply absorb into the skin. While saline implants have a long lifespan, they tend to look more artificial.

Silicone is the most popular but also has the most risks. The shells are filled with silicone then placed inside the breast and placed beneath the skin. While most silicone augmentations are successful, there are times when they can leak or rip. If this happens, it can set up scar tissue, cause pain, or even harden over time. If the implant leaks, it can usually only be caught through an MRI.

While both saline and silicone can be pricey, saline is the cheapest. And insurance does not cover either because the procedure is viewed as cosmetic. In San Antonio, TX, silicone implants could cost anywhere between $5,000 to $7,000; saline implants are about $1,000 less.

Choosing Your Plastic Surgeon

If you decide to have a breast augmentation, you should seek out the best plastic surgeon for the job. Never make assumptions that the individual you seek out is a good doctor. You will need to do a thorough check to ensure that their credentials are up to date and if they are currently under review or suspension.

Sadly, not all doctors are what they are cracked up to be. While the overwhelming majority take the patient’s best interest at heart, you do have some with only dollar signs in their eyes. They will perform sub-par surgeries, leaving the patient injured.

While choosing your plastic surgeon, you should read reviews from previous patients, check their credentials, and look at before-and-after photos. Both Dr. Homas and Dr. Brostrom are board-certified plastic surgeons with years of experience performing successful breast augmentations.

Schedule a Consultation

If you live in Texas, New Image Plastic Surgery is one of the best plastic surgery centers in the state. Board-certified plastic surgeons Dallas W. Homas and Lisa Brostrom have decades of experience and a long list of satisfied patients. They have a team of professionals who offer friendly service and a goal to help you feel good about your body. Call New Image Plastic Surgery today for a consultation.

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When most people think of plastic surgery, breast augmentation is probably the first procedure that comes to mind. If you’re considering breast augmentation, though, it’s important to know what to expect as you schedule your consultation with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom. Here’s what to know about breast augmentation and how it can help boost your figure and your confidence.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure that uses breast implants or fat transfer to enhance the appearance of the breasts. This can alter both the size and shape. When it comes to implants, there are a couple of different options. Implants are either filled with saline or silicone and have a silicone shell. Each will have its benefits and your plastic surgeon will discuss your best options for your goals.

What Happens During Breast Augmentation?

Before your procedure, you will discuss your options with your plastic surgeon, so you understand your options and your best surgical plan. This includes decisions about your implant type, incisions, implant placement, and any additional procedures you opt for. A breast augmentation procedure is performed in our office using Ivy Sedation. Once you are asleep, your plastic surgeon will make the appropriate incision at the breast fold/inframammary fold and place the implants accordingly. Once the implants are in place, the incisions are closed and made ready for recovery.

What Is Recovery Like?

After your surgery, your breasts will be covered with bandages and you’ll be fitted with a supportive surgical bra to support your new implants. You can expect significant swelling and some pain which can be managed with prescribed medications. You’ll need to rest and recover for one or two weeks before you can return to your regular schedule. During this time, you should also avoid heavy lifting and exercise until otherwise cleared by our plastic surgeons. Overall, you can expect your results to emerge within a month or two as swelling subsides. At 3 months, 90% of the swelling is gone.

Schedule a Consultation

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures on the market for its excellent results and evolving techniques. To meet with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom and learn more about your options, we invite you to contact our San Antonio office by calling or filling out our online form.

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It might surprise you to know that female bodybuilders are one demographic showing a growing trend in opting for breast augmentation. This can be attributed to the popularity of the bikini competitions which focus on more traditionally feminine aesthetics versus traditional female bodybuilding competitions which favor a more muscular, masculine aesthetic. For this reason, more and more women opt for breast augmentation with concerns about their workout regimen and exercise routine. If fitness is a concern when it comes to your recovery period, then it’s important to know what to expect. Although Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom will make sure you have instructions to follow, here’s a rough guide to working out after breast augmentation.

Your Implants

There are a lot of choices that you’ll make while planning your breast augmentation. As such, there are some specific choices that will affect your recovery and ability to exercise after surgery. Your implant choice won’t have much bearing on your final results or ability to exercise, but your implant placement will. If you opt to have the implant placed under the chest muscle (which is generally recommended if you have low body fat) then your recovery period will be longer. This also means that you’ll need to avoid working your chest muscles for some time, so you should avoid certain exercises and instead opt for others in the meantime.

Your Recovery Timeframe

The typical recovery period is six to eight weeks, although your doctor can give you the best idea of what to expect from your timeframe. You can count on being at home and in bed for the first one to two weeks with only light activities to keep your blood moving. After you begin to regain energy, it’s important to avoid raising your heart rate too much and elevate your level of activity gradually and with the guidance of Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom. Overall, you can expect to return to full capacity after eight weeks (although you still may not feel comfortable with your full regimen at this point). The most important thing to keep in mind is listening to your body and not pushing yourself until you’re ready.

Your Workout Regimen

If you feel you’re ready to begin upping your activity level after the first two weeks, you can begin with low-impact cardio like walking inside or outside. It’s extremely important to avoid moving your implants around too much and to continue wearing your supportive recovery bra. Too much movement can put a strain on your incisions, inhibiting your recovery. After you’re cleared to begin your exercise regimen again, it’s a good idea to start with exercises that focus on the legs and buttocks, like lunges or hip abduction. Again, listen to your body as you gradually include exercises for your core, arms, and chest. You can always check with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom before incorporating your next steps in fitness during your recovery period.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re considering breast augmentation to boost your body goals and achieve the figure you’re working towards, then we can help. To get started on discussing your options for breast augmentation, contact New Image Plastic Surgery by calling or filling out our online form.

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Breast augmentations have always been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, with an estimated 313,735 performed in the USA in 2018, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, it’s not uncommon for women to replace their implants in the years following augmentation, whether for elective reasons or complications. If you’re considering breast augmentation, it’s important to know why revisional surgery happens and what your options are. Here’s a guide as you plan your consultation.

Will My Implants Last Forever?

The lifespan of breast implants is different for everyone and is determined on a case by case basis. While some mistakenly believe that implants will last forever, the majority of women are under the assumption that they will need them replaced ten years after surgery. This is because of a public report made by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011, stating that one in five breast implant patients required a revision or replacement after ten years in the survey they performed.

In other words, eighty percent of patients will likely be able to enjoy their implants for longer than ten years after insertion. The idea that the remaining twenty percent have eventual complications with their implants may be a concern, but that number is misleading. Only three percent of implants ever actually require further procedures due to deflation or ruptures. Many women replacing or revising their implants are doing so because they want to alter their size or refine the shape in some way.

Why Would I Replace My Implants?

There are a few concerns that might require replacement of your implants. These are not very common and you will most likely never face them if you undergo your procedure with a board-certified plastic surgeon. However, it’s important to know what to look for.

The first is the possibility of the implant deflating or rupturing. While these are very rare occurrences, they will require a timely revision. The effect of a rupture differs whether you have saline or silicone implants. With saline implants, you are immediately able to tell when they have ruptured, as the silicone shell will deflate. Your body can absorb the saline solution without causing any harm. With silicone implants, ruptures are often unnoticeable until an MRI scan or mammogram is performed. In this case, the silicone gel leaks out and normally stays within a scar capsule that your body forms around the ruptured implant. Even if there is no rupture, excess scar tissue can form around the breasts, changing their shape and making them uneven or adjust their position. The implants should be replaced if you want to correct this complication, called capsular contracture.

Schedule a Consultation

Of course, the likelihood of a breast implant complication is highly dependent on the quality of the plastic surgeon you choose. It’s important to make sure your surgeon is board certified and confirm that they are experienced in breast procedures like augmentation and revision. To verify their skill and experience, you should ask questions and look through photos of their previous patients to get a sense of what they can do for you. If you are thinking of adjusting your breast implants, they can easily be replaced or revised in the San Antonio, Texas area by Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom at New Image Plastic Surgery. Both our surgeons are highly experienced in breast procedures, including augmentation, lifts, and reductions.

To get started on your breast augmentation or revisional surgery, contact our office by calling or filling out our online form.

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Breast augmentations with implants were introduced in the early ’60s. Since then, this procedure has evolved tremendously. When this type of cosmetic surgery evolved, surgeons used a silicone gel, which was in a rubber sac, or they used a water balloon. Technology has come a long way.

When a vast media scare was broadcasted in the early ’80s, companies that manufactured the implant products started to concentrate on better technologies; like the filler materials, the packaging, the shell coating, and the gel consistency. They needed to make higher quality products to prevent implant leakage. The outcome was the form-stable implant, which is also referred to as the gummy bear implant.

The newer types of implants (the form-stable types) and the standard silicone ones are what surgeons use now. Each type has its own advantages and potential issues. Today, breast augmentation is more advanced and is a safe alternative for individuals who want their bodies to feel and look more attractive. To know — what is the best implant type to get? – it is vital to understand the different kinds of products and their benefits and disadvantages.

What is the Typical Silicone Gel Like?

Typical silicone gel feels soft and plush and it feels exactly like breast tissue. This type of implant product requires a bigger incision for placement. However, many women and surgeons still prefer this implant type for its natural look and feel.

Form-Stable Gel Implants

The latest technological innovation in cosmetic surgery is the form-stable gel implant. This product puts patients’ minds at ease. They are manufactured with a truly consistent, solid gel that comes in diverse shapes and sizes. The name “Gummy Bear Implants” was given to these implants because they hold their cohesive consistency. They look more life-like, feel like real breasts, maintain their fullness, utilizing less material, and the issues with rupturing or leaking are not as common. That is great news for patients, as well as cosmetic surgeons. It is the largest breast implant revolution in years.

Disadvantages of Form-Stable Implants

The issue with the anatomic contour of the form-stable implants is that, if it is not in an upright position, it can look odd. Standard round ones rotate with ease and keep the same shape. When the form-stable implants rotate, the patient needs to have the surgeon rotate them back into their original place. That could mean another surgery for the patient.

To eliminate that issue, these implant products are manufactured with a textured coating, which adheres to the tissues. As well as helping with rotating issues, the texturizing might additionally stop some implant-connected problems; such as capsular contracture, which can cause the implants to harden. That could require another surgery to fix it if that happens.

Nonetheless, the textured covering can additionally cause the body to generate more fluid about the implant—and this is a likely reason for other kinds of problems, ones that are mainly problematic in the setting of elective enhancing surgical treatment.

The New Age Form-Stable Saline

Since implants were invented, most people preferred the softer gel implants. When patients were asked to hold a silicone gel implant in one hand and the form-stable saline implant in the other hand, most of them chose the standard version (the softer, more life-like kind).

The “Ideal Implant” was approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014. The new form-stable implants are saline-based, designed products with more than one compartment. The many compartments allow the saline to move within the augmented breasts restricting movement within the shells. This means additional stability, regarding shape, and less chance of ruptures. The “Ideal Implant” is the only cosmetic surgery product that has many compartments, and that is the new age technology for breast enhancements today: controlled support.

Even though each type of implant will feel different, the “Ideal Implant” does provide a more life-like feel and look. It is somewhat firmer than silicone gel implants, however, it keeps its shape better, no matter how a woman moves. The breasts have a perkier look as well.

But its largest advantage is that the chance of rupturing is lower, which means that these breast enhancement products will not need any monitoring, and the chance of repeating surgery is lower too. In addition, the chance of complications is lower, so patients can feel more confident before and after surgery.

What is the Best Type of Breast Implant to Get?

Not every patient will select the same breast implants, however, each person ought to understand his or her choices. As technology improves, surgeons, grab hold of the new products to offer their patients the safest and most pleasant experience.

The main thing is to locate a board-certified surgeon who uses the newest breast implant products that are safer and of higher quality and approved by the FDA. Every patient should continuously think about their health and well-being, future aspects related to breast surgeries, safety, and probable issues, combined with the beautifying outcome. If you are thinking of getting a breast augmentation with implants, ensure you are aware of what it entails. You can start the conversation by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom at New Image Plastic Surgery to get more information.

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With more time off for the holidays and the new year coming up, it’s the perfect time to restore your pre-pregnancy body with a mommy makeover! A mommy makeover is a combination of surgical procedures to address changes that have occurred after pregnancy and childbirth. If restoring your body and confidence is part of your New Year’s resolution, here’s what you need to know:

What Procedures to Include

The mommy makeover is highly customizable, so you can choose the procedures you need to address your unique concerns. The most commonly performed procedure after pregnancy is the tummy tuck. The abdominal area is highly affected by pregnancy, resulting in loose skin and tissue. With a tummy tuck, the abdominal tissue is tightened and excess skin is removed to achieve a toned appearance. Liposuction techniques can be used at the same time if stubborn fat is present.

The breasts are another area highly affected by pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you experience unwanted changes to your breasts after pregnancy, you might consider a procedure like a breast reduction to address enlarged breasts, or an augmentation with implants to restore volume loss. You might also consider adding a breast lift if you experience excess skin and sagging.

The Benefits of Combining Procedures

You might’ve thought you had to have each of your procedures done separately, however, it’s perfectly safe and even more beneficial to combine them. By having your procedures done at once, you won’t have to go through separate recovery processes. Instead, your surgical sites will heal together to reveal full-body rejuvenation. You can also expect to save money on fees by having the procedures done in one sitting.

To learn more about the mommy makeover or to start customizing your procedures, contact our office and schedule your consultation with Dr. Homasor Dr. Brostrom today.

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Breast augmentation is an effective procedure if you want to address concerns with your breast size, shape, or symmetry. However, with any surgery can come some fears and anxieties. By becoming fully prepared for your procedure, you can ease your mind and know exactly what to expect! The following are some of the steps that you can take if you wish to prepare yourself for the surgery.

Get All the Information You Can About the Surgery

If you have decided that you would like to undergo the breast surgery procedure, first ensure that an augmentation is the best procedure for your concerns. The breast augmentation can enhance naturally small breasts, or restore volume loss after pregnancy or weight loss, or with age. However, if sagging and excess skin are present, you might actually benefit more from a breast lift. The two procedures can also be performed together for optimal enhancement.

Get Into the Best Emotional and Physical Shape

This is a critical component if you want to recover the most effectively from your procedure. Once you have ensured that you are a candidate for breast augmentation after discussing it with a board-certified plastic surgeon, you will want to make sure you are in good physical and emotional shape as you prepare for your surgery day. A woman who is in the best physical shape will heal faster. However, it is also important to be in the best emotional state. You have to feel well about the procedure and you should surround yourself with your family and friends who are happy with the decision.

Prepare Yourself for the Post-Surgery Period

As you get closer to your surgery day, it is good if you are fully prepared for your recovery period as well. You should ensure that your affairs are done so that when you get out of the procedure, you can relax and recover without worry. Make sure you get enough time off work (at least one week) and have someone to drive you home from your procedure. You might also want someone there to care for you for the first 24 hours.

On the Day of the Surgery

Before you head to your breast procedure, shower and put on loose, comfortable clothes. You’ll also want to make sure you have a comfortable spot ready for when you come back. Do not put on any makeup or jewelry and do not eat or drink anything heading into surgery.

Always discuss any concerns you have with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom before scheduling your breast augmentation procedure. By asking all the necessary questions, you can ensure that you will be comfortable with your decision, making it a positive experience. For more information on how you can prepare for your procedure, or to schedule your consultation, contact our office today.

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One of the most important parts of your consultation at New Image Plastic Surgery is describing how you want your final results to look and feel. This might seem simple, but there a lot of things that plastic surgeons take into consideration. These things can affect not only your implant type but also the placement and the techniques used. Although a picture can be helpful, it might not be achievable with your unique anatomy, so it’s important to have an idea of the things you want to change about your breasts. Here are some to keep in mind.

Breast Size

This is usually the first one that patients think of, but it can be a little more complicated than a simple cup size. Implants follow a different scale and it can sometimes be impossible to achieve the intended results when working off a cup size. Implant sizes also scale in projection and diameter as they get larger, too, so these measurements are also important to keep in mind. Also, be sure to look at the proportions of your body and how your ideal results would balance with your overall profile. Some implant sizes may be too unrealistic for your body, so be honest about what you’re hoping to achieve when discussing size with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom.

Profile and Shape

The intended overall appearance of your results can be a large consideration in picking your implant— especially in narrowing down factors like shape or projection. Try to determine if you want your breasts to appear full and round with lots of projection, or sloped and natural with subtle volume. Certain implants are differently shaped (whether round or teardrop-shaped) and can produce drastically different results, so try to imagine your new breasts from the side to get the best idea for how you want them to be shaped.

Cleavage

One factor that leads many women to breast augmentation is feeling like they have no or little cleavage. This is an important consideration for your final results since placing the implants too far apart can take away from it. Your implant selection can also affect this since certain higher-profile implants will create more cleavage than more natural, lower-profile ones. Try to imagine how you want the cleavage to appear while wearing a low-cut shirt and how much you would like to be visible.

Nipples

Some women opt for a reduction in their nipples while undergoing breast surgery, so it’s important to decide whether you would like any correction to be part of your procedure. This can include the size of the areolar skin or even a repositioning of the entire area to a more upright position. This can be especially important if your doctor recommends implant placement with a periareolar (around the nipple) incision.

There are a lot of factors that go into determining your unique breast augmentation procedure and having a good idea of your intended results can be one of the best ways to prepare. During your consultation, Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom can help you determine if your goals are achievable and how best to pursue them with a breast augmentation procedure. To schedule your consultation, contact us by filling out our online form or calling our San Antonio office.

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Although you’ll most likely be excited to see your new results after your breast augmentation procedure, your recovery is an important step along the way to the new you. It can seem daunting, but your recovery doesn’t need to be miserable. Our surgeons will make sure you have care steps to follow, but here are a few tips to make your recovery as easy and comfortable as possible.

Prepare some easy meals

It’s very important to get the nutrients you need during your recovery. Cooking afterward can require more energy than you’re able to spend, though, so be sure to think ahead by prepping some easy-to-grab, reheatable meals ahead of time. You may want to start with bland, easily-digestible foods the day after surgery, but be sure to also include meals for later on that have lots of vegetables and fiber, as well as protein from non-fatty sources. Your recovery diet shouldn’t include lots of dairy or processed and sugary foods since these can contribute to constipation, which is common after surgeries and the use of certain medications. A well-balanced, vitamin-rich diet during your downtime can be an important part of your body’s ability to heal, so be sure to ask Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom for recommendations of what to avoid or include.

Set up your recovery den

This is another important step that will ensure you have a place to spend your recovery in comfort. Select a comfortable room with climate control that has a bed or couch with plenty of space for you to relax and rest. Be sure to stock up on pillows, since these are important in making sure you don’t move too much while you’re sleeping. They can also help with keeping you elevated, which helps with blood flow. Make sure you have a place to put important things like water, medication, or ice-packs so that they’re in reach. It can also be helpful to create a list of movies, shows, or books to keep you entertained— although, getting plenty of rest is important, too!

Make your arrangements

One thing that’s most important to your safety and health is making sure you have a close friend or family member to take you home and look after you during the first few days. You most likely won’t be able to lift or reach during this time, so you should have someone on hand to help you out with moving or ensuring you’re comfortable. You and your chosen helper should also know what complications to watch out for. Also, be sure to make arrangements for your prescribed medications and surgical bra, which are important for your immediate recovery period.

Your successful recovery should begin in the days before your procedure in order to ensure you can easily return home and rest. Be sure to voice any questions you may have during your consultation, and your doctor can make sure you have all the information you need to stay safe and comfortable. To schedule a consultation, fill out our online form or contact our San Antonio office.

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Being properly prepared for your breast augmentation is important to ensure successful results, but it can also ease your mind leading up to your procedure. A breast augmentation can change your life for the better! But first, you’ll have to go through your recovery period. Here’s what you can expect from the day after your procedure and beyond.

A Week of Discomfort

Most of your discomfort will occur during your first week of recovery. For the first few days, you can manage your pain with a prescription medication and the use of an ice pack. Wearing your surgical bra can also help to minimize your swelling and increase comfort. The majority of your swelling, bruising, and soreness will be present during this time. You will likely need this week off of work to properly rest and recover at home. The good news is, after this time, your discomfort and side effects should continue to resolve!

Getting Back to Your Routine

After a week of resting and healing, you should be getting back to your normal routine and returning to work. You should still limit your exercise and avoid strenuous activities until your surgeon has given you the okay. Typically, light exercise can be introduced after four weeks and more strenuous activity after six. As your swelling continues to subside during this time, you will start to feel more presentable and get a better idea of what your results will be like.

Experiencing Your Results

After your breast augmentation procedure, you shouldn’t expect to immediately have the enhanced, symmetrical breasts you hoped for. Your healing process takes time and your implants may sit high on the chest at first. Over the next few months, your implants will settle under the breast skin and drop to a more natural position. After this time, you can enjoy your new breasts for many years, but make sure you keep up with regular appointments with your plastic surgeon to check the strength of your implants.

During your initial consultation, Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom can go over your exact recovery plan and what you can expect after your procedure. To schedule your consultation, contact New Image Plastic Surgery today.

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