Breast Augmentation Overview - Frequently Asked Questions - Photos (Before & After)       Frequently Asked Questions How long have breast augmentations been performed? In 1963, the Dow Corning Corporation developed the first silicone get breast implant. The number of women with breast implants in the United states is unknown but estimates range from 1.5 million to over 2 million. Are implants Safe? In the early 1990's litigation and negative media led to the "silicone scare" that has had lasting negative effects. Silicone is an inert substance ubiquitous in the environment used in most implant able devices such as pacemakers, IV tubing, and prosthetic joints, to name a few. Several exhaustive studies and investigations have confirmed that no evidence exists that demonstrates silicone is associated with any systemic disease. There can, however, be local problems with silicone "bleed" that can lead to contracture, irregularity or displacement of the implant. There have been a number of refinements and improvements in implants in recent years to minimize these risks and enhance durability. Since 1992 silicone implants have been only available in situations of breast reconstruction and revision until recently. They were released in 2007 for primary augmentation in women at least 22 years of age. www.memorygel.com What should I expect from my consultation? The initial consultation can be anxiety producing for many patients. Knowing what to expect can hopefully alleviate many of those feelings. First you will meet with Dr. Yates for a personal consultation at which time you will discuss your goals and expectations. It is helpful if you bring photographs of breasts that you find attractive in size and shape for communication. Patient photographs may be reviewed and implants may be "tried on" to help with deciding the size of the implants desired. During the exam, Dr Yates will assess the size and shape of your breasts as well as note and discuss any asymmetries that may be present. The technique used including incision site, type of implant and location of implant placement will be made together with Dr. Yates based on your desired results. You should expect to leave the consultation with a thorough understanding of the procedure, risks involved with the procedure and expectations regarding recovery from the procedure. Where is the procedure performed? Breast augmentation can be performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient surgical center or with local anesthesia with deep sedation in the clinic operating room. Generally patients choose the latter for financial reasons. A board certified anesthesiologist is present to administer the anesthesia for the entire procedure at either location. Dr Yates strongly believes that this is important both for patient safety and comfort. How much pain should I expect? Pain and possibly nausea can be significant for the first few days after the procedure. To minimize this pain, a local anesthetic block of the nerves that supply the breast is administered during the procedure. This alleviates much of the pain for the first evening following the procedure, which is generally when the discomfort is most significant. The patient will be given medications for pain and nausea for the next several days. When can I return to work or the gym? Generally the patient can return to desk work within 3-6 days, may resume moderate lifting within three weeks and gym activities at approximately six weeks. What risks are associated with the procedure? As with any cosmetic surgery, there are possible risks and complications. As a perfectionist, Dr Yates takes every precaution to prevent these. On the rare occurrence that a complication does occur, Dr Yates will correct it at no additional surgeons' fee. Happy patients are a Plastic Surgeons best ally. Dr Yates will thoroughly discuss these rare but potential risks at the time of your consultation.