Answers to Orange County
Breast Augmentation Questions

If you're like many women, you have questions about Orange County breast augmentation (enlargement) surgery. Read through our material and come prepared to your complimentary surgical consultation with Dr. Smith.

Give us a call at 949.450.2755 in Irvine or 951.734.2500 in Corona, or send us an email to get started. The best way to decide what's right for you is to request a FREE surgical consultation with Dr. Smith by calling 949.653.7000 .

How will I choose the right implant size for me?

Dr. Smith is skilled in helping his Orange County breast enhancement patients choose their breast implants. He uses implants and pictures to help you think this through. He also encourages you to browse his breast augmentation before and after photos and bring your own photos to your consultation.

Are silicone implants really safe?

Silicone breast implants are some of the most studied medical devices in history. The Food and Drug Administration re-approved them for use in women who are at least 22 years old in November 2006, after 14 years of hearings, studies, and reports.

Hundreds of thousands of women around the world have received silicone implants since the 1960's, and in fact, while the devices were restricted in the U.S. they were never banned in other countries. No credible medical evidence has ever come to light linking the implants to serious complications.

How much pain can I expect after surgery?

Most people report experiencing moderate discomfort for the first one or two days. Dr. Smith prescribes pain medication; you should fill the prescription and have over-the-counter pain relievers on hand prior to surgery. After the first couple of days, discomfort should be mild. You may experience some pain for several days when you use your arms and chest muscles.

You may notice some bruising and swelling. Some patients report pressure and stretching in the breast area. Ice packs can help.

How much time off work should I take?

If you're like most patients, you will probably feel ready to return to a fairly non-strenuous job in three days or a bit longer.

Are there other preparations I need to make?

You should have someone ready to take you home after surgery and someone to help you at home for a couple of days. You may need assistance with meals, children and pets.

You should also prepare your home with your comfort in mind. You may want to have ice packs on hand to help with swelling and you might be most comfortable with clean linens and extra pillows on the bed.

When can I resume physical activity?

Light exercises may be started at about two weeks. You should not start aerobic exercising requiring jumping or running for 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.

Will my nipple sensation be normal after surgery?

It is not uncommon for sensation to be reduced during the recovery period. Actually, many patients state that sensation is increased and some find they have asymmetric sensation. Very rarely a patient experiences some permanent loss of sensation.

How long should I wait before going braless?

Dr. Smith advises most of his patients to wait several weeks before going without a bra.

How long will I need to refrain from sexual activity?

Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two to three weeks after your Orange County breast augmentation (enlargement), so you should avoid much physical contact during that period. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore.

Will I be able to breast-feed after breast augmentation?

None of Dr. Smith's patients has ever reported not being able to breastfeed, although there is no absolute guarantee.

Do breast implants affect my risk of breast cancer? Will I still be able to get mammograms?

Breast implants will not change your risk of breast cancer and you will still have mammograms as usual. Since implants change the feel of your breasts they can change the sensitivity of breast examination. It is important to inform the technician that you have implants before mammography. If you are over 35 years of age, a baseline mammogram should be performed before your surgery.

How long will my augmentation last?

It's possible to have breast augmentation and never have another procedure. It's common, however, for patients to come back to replace a ruptured implant, change to a different kind of implant or seek a breast lift to maintain their youthful shape.

Dr. Smith understands your desire to look your best. He welcomes the opportunity to work with you now and in the future.