Breast Augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that enhances the size and shape of the breasts using implants. But did you know combining it with other procedures can offer even better results? So, what are the best procedures to combine with breast augmentation and the benefits of doing so?
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation involves placing implants to increase breast size and improve shape. People choose this surgery for various reasons, such as enhancing their body contour, boosting self-confidence, or restoring breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy. The typical outcomes include fuller breasts and a more balanced figure, with a recovery period of a few weeks.
Why Combine Procedures?
Combining procedures with breast augmentation can be highly beneficial. It can be cost-effective, as you only pay for anaesthesia once and reduce overall surgical costs. Additionally, you’ll have a single recovery period instead of multiple ones, making it more convenient. However, it’s important to consider your overall health and the increased surgical risks when opting for combined procedures.
Top Procedures to Combine with Breast Augmentation
Combining breast augmentation with other cosmetic procedures can provide a more comprehensive enhancement, improving body contours and proportions. Here are the top procedures often paired with breast augmentation and their benefits.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, and arms. By targeting and eliminating stubborn fat deposits, liposuction enhances your overall body contour. When combined with breast augmentation, it helps create a more proportionate and balanced look.
Benefits:
- Enhanced body contouring – Achieve a smoother, more sculpted appearance by removing localised fat deposits.
- Removal of stubborn fat pockets – Target areas that are resistant to diet and exercise.
- Improved overall body proportion – Balance the increased breast size with a slimmer, more defined silhouette.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. Pairing it with breast augmentation can result in a more toned and flat abdomen, complementing the enhanced breast size and shape.
Benefits:
- Tightening of abdominal muscles – Strengthen and firm the abdominal area.
- Removal of excess skin and fat – Eliminate loose skin and stubborn fat, especially after significant weight loss or pregnancy.
- Achieving a flatter and more toned abdomen – Improve the overall contour of your midsection, enhancing your body’s appearance.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift, or mastopexy, raises and firms the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. It’s often combined with breast augmentation to enhance both breast shape and position, providing a more youthful and lifted appearance.
Benefits:
- Correction of sagging breasts – Address drooping or sagging for a perkier look.
- Improved breast shape and position – Achieve a more aesthetically pleasing breast contour and higher placement.
- Enhanced overall aesthetic results – Combine increased volume with improved lift and shape for optimal results.
Mommy Makeover
A mommy makeover is a customised combination of procedures designed to restore a woman’s body after pregnancy and childbirth. It typically includes breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple areas of concern, leading to a significant transformation in a single surgical session.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive post-pregnancy body restoration – Target the areas most affected by pregnancy, such as the breasts, abdomen, and hips.
- A customised approach to address individual needs – Tailor the procedures to your specific goals and concerns.
- Significant aesthetic transformation in a single surgical session – Achieve dramatic improvements with just one round of surgery and recovery.
Benefits of Combining Procedures
- Cost savings – Save money by paying for anaesthesia and surgical costs once.
- Reduced downtime – Recover from multiple procedures at the same time.
- Enhanced and balanced results – Achieve a harmonious body contour.
- Psychological benefits – Increased satisfaction and confidence boost from seeing comprehensive improvements.
Considerations Before Combining Procedures
Combining breast augmentation with other cosmetic procedures can provide comprehensive and satisfying results. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind before deciding to undergo multiple surgeries at once. Here’s a detailed look at what you should consider:
Thorough Consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
The first and most crucial step is to schedule a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. This professional will evaluate your overall health, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the best combination of procedures for you. A qualified surgeon can provide expert advice on the feasibility and safety of combining surgeries.
Evaluating Overall Health and Readiness for Multiple Procedures
Your overall health is a significant factor when considering combined procedures. The surgeon will review your medical history, current health status, and any pre-existing conditions that might affect the surgery or recovery. You may need to undergo certain medical tests to ensure you are fit for surgery. Being in good health reduces the risk of complications and promotes a smoother recovery.
Understanding the Risks Involved
Combining procedures increases the complexity of the surgery, which can elevate the risk of complications. It’s essential to be fully aware of these risks, which can include:
- Increased surgical time – Longer surgeries can pose more stress on your body.
- Higher risk of infection – Multiple incisions and longer surgery times can increase infection risks.
- Prolonged anaesthesia – Extended exposure to anaesthesia can have additional risks.
- More significant blood loss – Multiple procedures can lead to more blood loss during surgery.
- Discussing these risks with your surgeon helps you make an informed decision about whether combining procedures is right for you.
Planning for a Sufficient Recovery Period and Support
Recovery from multiple procedures can be more demanding than recovering from a single surgery. It’s essential to plan for a sufficient recovery period, which might be longer than you expect. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:
- Arrange for help at home – You’ll need assistance with daily activities, especially in the first few days after surgery.
- Prepare a comfortable recovery area – Ensure you have a space where you can rest and recover comfortably, with easy access to everything you might need.
- Follow post-operative instructions carefully – Adhering to your surgeon’s recovery guidelines is crucial for healing and achieving the best results.
- Be patient and give your body time to heal – Understand that combined procedures can extend the recovery timeline and give yourself the time needed to recover fully.
Financial Considerations
While combining procedures can be cost-effective, it’s essential to understand the financial implications. Ensure you are aware of the total costs involved, including surgeon fees, anaesthesia, facility charges, and post-operative care. Some surgeons offer package deals for combined procedures, which can make the overall cost more manageable.
Setting Realistic Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of your combined procedures. While the goal is to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, understanding the limitations and potential outcomes can help ensure satisfaction with the results. Discussing your goals and expectations with your surgeon can help align your vision with what’s achievable.
Post-Surgery Lifestyle Adjustments
Consider the lifestyle adjustments you may need to make after surgery. This can include:
- Temporary limitations on physical activities – You may need to avoid strenuous activities for an extended period.
- Dietary changes – Eating a healthy, balanced diet can promote healing.
- Smoking cessation – If you smoke, quitting is crucial as smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.
Emotional Preparedness
Undergoing multiple cosmetic procedures can be an emotional journey. Being mentally prepared for the changes to your body and the recovery process is essential. Ensure you have a support system in place to help you through the emotional aspects of your surgical journey. Combining procedures with breast augmentation can enhance your results and provide significant benefits. Always consult with a qualified surgeon to ensure the best outcomes for your health and aesthetic goals.