Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures, and also one of the most personalized.
By the time most women come in for a consultation, they’ve already done some research, which may have included looking at before-and-after photos, comparing size options and getting a general idea of what they want. But there are a few details that might not come to mind until your consultation or even after your procedure.
To help ensure you feel completely prepared for breast augmentation and see the best possible results, take a look at some of the most surprising things to know before getting implants.
Size Isn’t the Most Important Decision
It’s easy to focus on implant size, as that is the top reason most women consider breast augmentation in the first place. But in reality, size is only one part of the equation. Your anatomy, including things like chest width, existing breast tissue and skin quality, plays a much bigger role in how your results will look than cup size.
This is why two women can choose the same implant size and end up with completely different outcomes. During the planning process, Dr. Davis will help you find the best proportions that will fit with your body and best achieve the results you’re looking for.
Implants Don’t Always Fix Sagging
While breast implants add volume, they don’t correct significant sagging on their own. If the skin has stretched or the nipple position has dropped, a breast lift may be needed to achieve a balanced result. Some women come in thinking they only want augmentation, but after their evaluation with Dr. Davis, it becomes clear that combining breast implants with a lift will lead to a better outcome.
Your Results Take Time to Develop
Right after surgery, your breasts won’t look like the final result. They often sit higher on the chest and feel firmer than expected. Over time, your implants will settle into a more natural position during a process often referred to as “drop and fluff.” This can take several weeks to months. Understanding this ahead of time helps to avoid unnecessary concern early in recovery.
Recovery Is Manageable, But It’s Still Recovery
Most women are pleasantly surprised that their breast augmentation recovery is easier than they’d expected. That said, it is still surgery, so you will need to take time off from certain activities, avoid heavy lifting and follow Dr. Davis’s post-op instructions closely. Planning ahead for work, childcare and daily responsibilities can make the experience much smoother.
Implants Aren’t Lifetime Devices
Breast implants are long-lasting, but they aren’t designed to last forever. Many women will eventually need a revision, whether due to natural aging, changes in preference or implant-related factors over time. Thinking of breast augmentation as a long-term investment rather than a one-time procedure helps to set realistic expectations. That said, modern breast implants can last well over 10 years in many cases.
It’s a Personalized Process
Your individual body shape and type, goals and lifestyle all factor into your surgical plan, which is why a consultation is so important. This visit allows Dr. Davis to guide you through decisions that aren’t always obvious from online research alone.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, having a clear understanding of these details can make the process feel more straightforward and less uncertain – and ultimately, that leads to better, more satisfying results.
To take the first step toward achieving your new look, call our Sacramento office at 916-318-5770 or contact us online.
Author: Dr. Drew Davis
Dr. Drew Davis completed his residency in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Stanford University Medical Center and is proud to be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. After practicing for many years in the Bay Area, Dr. Davis has chosen private practice in the Sacramento area to allow him to provide the most personal and individualized patient care.
