Frequent Questions About Breast Augmentation & Breast Implants in San Diego

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Can I get silicone implants?
-The FDA has approved silicone gel implants for use on women 22 years of age for breast augmentation surgery and women of any age for breast reconstruction surgery. Please set up a consultation to discuss the pro's and con's of silicone gel implants.

Does the incision size differ for saline vs. silicone gel implants?
-The incision when using silicone gel implants is larger because the implants are pre-filled versus saline implants that are empty when inserted and then filled up.

How long will I have to wear this special bra?
-Normally, the bra will need to be worn for 2-4 weeks. There are reasons why the bra is important and following San Diego Cosmetic Surgeon's, Dr. Pousti, directions will give you the best possible results. Each patient is different and so the recovery will also be different.

How long do I have to wear the bandeau?
-The amount of time that the bandeau needs to be worn depends on your specific situation. On average, the bandeau will be worn for 2-4 weeks after the procedure by our cosmetic surgery patients.

When can I start to exercise?
-Dr. Pousti does not recommend heavy weight lifting or strenuous exercise until 6 weeks after the procedure. Patients may walk and do leg exercises soon after the procedure.

How long is the recovery?
-Every San Diego Cosmetic Surgery Patient is different in their recovery. Most patient's are able to resume the majority of their normal activities 4-6 weeks after the procedure.

Do I have to do any special exercises to massage the implants?
-There will be exercises that Dr. Pousti and his office staff will review with you. Generally, when the implants are placed in the sub-muscular position, massage has not been found to be necessary.

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Anything I can do to decrease the possibility of getting capsular contractures?
-No. Our San Diego Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Pousti, will do all that he can during and after the procedure to decrease the chance of capsular contracture. By placing the breast implant under the muscle, the risk of getting capsular contracture will be decreased. Dr. Pousti follows his patients long term to diagnose encapsulation and there are now medications that may be used to combat this problem.

Do these implants have warranties?
-Yes, these breast implants have life time warranties. The breast implant companies will cover the cost of the breast implants for life and will also supply a stipend to cover some of the cost associated with returning to surgery (anesthesia, surgery center, etc.) for 10 years after your primary procedure.

I have friends from out of town/state who have gone to see Dr. Pousti, how can I schedule a surgery without coming in for a consultation if I live out of state?
-Our San Diego Plastic Surgery office has many patients coming from out of town/state to have Dr. Pousti perform their breast augmentation surgery. We can discuss the majority of what we need to via e-mail. Our office tries to work with your schedule so that the inconvenience is minimized. Visit our "Fly in for surgery" section.

Will I need expanders to achieve the size I want?
-Usually, expanders are not necessary.

Do you use sizers during surgery to best determine size?
-Yes, I always use sizers.

How many different sizes of implants do you take into the OR?
-I always have all breast implant sizes available in the OR.

Do you make over-sized pockets?
-Pockets are slightly larger than the implants used. This will allow for some movement of the implants so as to resemble natural breasts as much as possible.

If I develope capsular contracture and the implants have to be removed, will I be able to have them put back again?
-Most of the time, patients wish to have implants replaced after removal of capsules (capsulotomy).

What guarantees are offered with the implants?
-Currently, the implants are warrantied for life by the implant manufactorer. They also provide a stipend to return to the OR if an implant leak occurs within the first 10 years.

What is the best way for me to determine the size implant I will need to go from where I am to where I want to be?
-Often, by looking at pictures, we can ascertain your goals of size and shape of breast desired.

Will I be able to sleep on my stomach?
-In general, approximately 2-3 months after surgery, one is able to sleep on their stomach.

Who prescribes the painkillers and can we collect them prior to surgery?
-All necessary prescriptions will be prescribed by the doctor several weeks prior to surgery (at the pre-op appointment).