Breast Implants FAQ Provided by Cosmetic Surgery Center of Maryland
Baltimore Breast Surgeons
 | Frequently Asked Questions
Breast Augmentation FAQ
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) FAQ
Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) FAQ
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) FAQ
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) FAQ
BOTOX® FAQ
Facelift FAQ
Liposuction FAQ
Rhinoplasty FAQ
Breast Augmentation FAQ
- What are the risks and complications involved with having breast augmentation?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. But, the most common complication is capsular contracture where the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten. The breast can begin to feel hard with this squeezing of the soft implant. Treatment for capsular contracture varies from removal or "scoring" of the scar tissue to removal or replacement of the implant. Other possible risks associated with breast augmentation are deflation, infection and shifting. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- What gives the breast its shape?
The breast consists of milk ducts and glands that are surrounded by fatty tissue. That's what gives the breast its shape and feel. The implant should "augment" or fill out the natural breast.
- Is breast augmentation painful?
Pain of varying intensity and duration can occur, but depends on the individual. After surgery, most women feel tired and sore for a few days. Usually women are able to return to work and normal activity in three to four days without much pain. Their breasts can remain swollen and sensitive to physical contact for a month or longer, but this is usually minimal. As the skin adjusts to the new breast size, you may feel tightness in the breast.
- Will I lose sensation in my nipples?
Feeling in the nipple can increase, decrease or stay the same after implant surgery. Changes in feeling are usually temporary.
- How will my breasts look if I choose, later on, to have the implants removed?
Some women who choose to have their implants removed should find that their breasts are the same size as before implantation. Other body changes such as pregnancy, weight gain or loss can offset the appearance.
- What shape, size, surface texturing, incision and placement site is recommended?
Dr. Cohen will recommend the ideal shape, size and texture and position of the implant during your consultation.
- Will I still be able to breast feed?
There is no evidence that breast implants will affect your ability to nurse.
- I hear that some people produce milk after breast surgery? What happens if that occurs?
This condition, galactorrhea, may present after breast surgery. It is more likely to occur if you have previously lactated. The milk production will sometimes stop spontaneously or can be terminated by medication. On rare occasion, the implants may require removal.
- How will my breasts look over time?
Gravity will take its natural course. Implanted breasts may begin to sag or droop over time like any other breasts would.
- What is the difference between saline and silicone implants?
The implant, itself, is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline (a salt-water) solution. Due to concerns about the safety of silicone gel-filled implants, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that only women in approved studies can opt for silicone implants. Saline-filled implants are available to breast augmentation patients on an unrestricted basis. Capsular contracture is much less common and less severe with saline implants than with silicone.
- Are mammograms still possible with implants?
Routine screening mammography can be more difficult with implants and will require additional views.
- Will the implant rupture if I have a mammogram?
Women need to inform the mammographic technicians that they have implants. Displacement techniques can be used to minimize the possibility of rupture and to get the best possible views of the breasts.
- Is there a higher risk for cancer in women with implants?
No study has shown that breast implants are associated with a higher cancer rate.
- What happens if the implant does rupture?
If a saline implant ruptures, it will deflate and the salt water will be absorbed into the body. If this happens, the implant will need replacement.
- How long will the scars last?
The scars can be noticeable for a few weeks, but usually fade very nicely. The area under the breast tends to heal exceptionally well.
- Will breast augmentation improve nipple asymmetry?
No; it will simply enlarge the breasts.
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Breast Lift (Mastopexy) FAQ
- What are the risks and complications involved with having mastopexy?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Some possible risks associated with mastopexy are scars and delayed wound healing. If a breast augmentation is done in conjunction with the breast lift, then there are additional risks involved. (Please refer to the section on Breast Augmentation for more details.) Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- Will I lose sensation in my nipples?
As with breast reduction, feeling can be altered, but usually returns to the way it was before the surgery.
- What happens if I get pregnant after having a breast lift?
If you are considering having more children, Dr. Cohen recommends that you wait until afterwards to have mastopexy. Pregnancy will likely offset the effects of surgery by stretching out the skin again causing sagging (ptosis).
- Will mastopexy affect breast-feeding?
If you do become pregnant, the procedure should not affect your ability to nurse since the milk ducts and nipples will be left intact.
- Will the position of the nipple and areola change? If so, where will it be?
Dr. Cohen will move the nipple and areola higher during the procedure, to a natural position, approximately even with the crease beneath the breast.
- How long will the results last?
Weight fluctuations, age, future pregnancies and gravity will cause breasts to begin to sag over time. Women who have chosen to have implants as well as a breast lift may have longer lasting results.
- Will I need a mammogram before the procedure?
Depending on the age of the woman, Dr. Cohen may suggest a mammogram prior to the operation.
- How long will the scars last?
The scars are always permanent, although they'll be covered by your bra or swimsuit. As with most scars, they will fade and become much less noticeable over time.
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Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) FAQ
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What are the risks and complications involved with having reduction mammoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved like bleeding, infection and delay in wound healing. It is not uncommon for some patients to develop small open areas in their incisions. Antibiotic creams, prescribed by Dr. Cohen, will resolve those sores. You are at increased risk for complications if you have diabetes, poor circulation or smoke. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- Will I need a mammogram?
Because the size, shape and amount of breast tissue will change after the reduction, it is advisable to have a preoperative mammogram and a postoperative mammogram six months to a year after surgery for comparison purposes.
- Will I lose sensation in my nipples?
Some patients may experience some loss of feeling in their nipples, initially. The feeling usually returns.
- What is the ideal age to have breast reduction?
Normally, women wait until their breasts are fully developed before they have this procedure.
- What shape, size, and incision is recommended?
Dr. Cohen will discuss these details with you during your consultation. It is normally a function of the woman's anatomy and the doctor's recommendation that determine type of incision pattern.
- Will I still be able to breast feed?
Since many of the milk ducts leading to the nipples are removed during reduction mammoplasty, future breast-feeding may not be possible. Most women are able to breast feed, but the amount of milk produced may be diminished so that supplementation is needed.
- How will my breasts look over time?
Your breasts will look uplifted and smaller. It may take several months before the final shape is determined.
- Will my breasts ever return to their original size after the reduction?
No.
- Will insurance cover the operation?
Many insurance companies will pay for breast reduction if it's deemed medically necessary. These companies may require that a certain amount of breast tissue be removed to qualify for coverage. Check your policy, and have Dr. Cohen write a "predetermination letter" if necessary.
- How long will the scars last?
It is important to keep in mind that breast reduction scars can be extensive and permanent although the Dr. Cohen will make ever attempt to keep them as inconspicuous as possible. They may remain red for months, gradually fading over time. Smokers tend to have a harder time with scarring. The good news is that the scars can be placed so that you can wear even low-cut tops.
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Abdominoplasty FAQ
- What are the risks and complications involved with having abdominoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Some potential risks are scars, bleeding under the skin flap, numbness, infection and delays in wound healing. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- Who are the most suitable candidates for abdominoplasty?
It is especially suitable for women who have had multiple pregnancies causing the abdominal muscles and skin to stretch. A tummy tuck can also be appropriate for men and women who have a large fat deposit, in the abdominal area, that doesn't respond to regular diet and exercise.
- How long will my abdominoplasty last?
Abdominoplasty produces excellent results for people with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. In most cases, the results are long lasting provided you don't stretch out the skin with another pregnancy or excessive weight gain.
- What is the difference between a full and mini abdominoplasty?
A full or complete abdominoplasty involves separating the skin from the abdominal wall, freeing the navel from its surrounding tissue, and lifting the large skin flap up to gain access to the abdominal muscles. The muscles are stitched together, then the skin flap is trimmed of excess skin, and the new navel is created and stitched into place. With a partial or mini abdominoplasty, the incision is much shorter than with a full abdominoplasty since the skin is only separated between the incision line and the navel, and the muscles are tightened in a similar fashion.
- Will I have scars?
Yes, but they can be concealed under most clothing including lingerie and bathing suits.
- Will I be able to get pregnant again?
Yes, but abdominoplasty should be postponed if you intend to get pregnant again. Vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during a tummy tuck procedure can separate again during pregnancy.
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Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) FAQ
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What are the risks and complications involved with having eyelid surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Some minor complications include blurred vision for several days, dry eye, swelling and bruising. Several medical conditions make eyelid surgery more risky. Hypothyroidism and Graves' disease, dry eye or lack of sufficient tears, circulatory disorders, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, detached retina, and glaucoma all increase the risk of complications. Dr. Cohen suggests that you consult with your ophthalmologist if you have or have had any of these conditions. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- Who are the most suitable candidates for eyelid surgery?
The ideal candidate for eyelid surgery is someone with puffy eyelids with loose and baggy skin. Typically, these patients are in their late thirties and upward although some people with a family history of sagging eyelids might opt to have eyelid surgery sooner.
- How long will the positive effects of eyelid surgery last?
An eyelid lift will make you look years younger. The effects will last for quite some time; for many people it lasts forever.
- How can I hide the scars?
The scars may remain slightly pink for six months or longer. However, they eventually fade into a thin, white line that is practically invisible. In addition, there are some wonderful camouflage cosmetics that are designed specifically to conceal and/or disguise the scars.
- Will I be able to be in the sun?
Sunglasses should be worn while outdoors, as the eyes will probably be sensitive to the light. Sun protection, with at least an SPF of 15, should be used for the first six months after surgery. It is always a good idea to protect the skin from the damaging rays of the sun regardless.
- Can the upper and lower lids be done simultaneously?
Absolutely. This is an ideal combination to obtain maximal improvement and rejuvenation about the eyes.
- What is transconjunctival blepharoplasty?
This procedure is usually performed on younger patients with good skin elasticity. When a pocket of fat exists under the lower eyelids, but no skin needs to be removed, Dr. Cohen may perform a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. With this procedure, the incision is made inside your lower eyelid so you will not have any visible scar.
- If I have wine or a mixed drink after surgery, will it affect my eyes?
Alcohol may cause fluid retention so Dr. Cohen will probably recommend that you temporarily avoid it.
- Will eyelid surgery affect my eyesight?
In the first few weeks following surgery, your eyes may tear excessively, be more sensitive to light and have a hard time focusing. This is all temporary. Dr. Cohen may recommend eye drops since you may experience some burning or itching, and your eyelids may feel dry.
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BOTOX® FAQ
- What is BOTOX Cosmetic®?
BOTOX Cosmetic® is a therapeutic agent derived from the bacterium, Clostridium Botulinum. Also known as BOTulinum TOXin Type A, the brand BOTOX Cosmetic® is produced under controlled lab conditions, and is administered safely in extremely small doses.
- How does BOTOX Cosmetic® work?
BOTOX Cosmetic® blocks the message from the nerves to the muscles responsible for wrinkling. If the muscles can't contract, then the wrinkles disappear.
- How is BOTOX Cosmetic® administered?
BOTOX Cosmetic® is administered via injection using a tiny needle.
- Are there scars?
Absolutely not.
- Will I be able to be in the sun?
Dr. Cohen always recommends the use of sun protection, with at least an SPF of 15, regardless of whether or not you've had a procedure done.
- Does a BOTOX Cosmetic® treatment hurt?
A tiny needle is used to inject BOTOX Cosmetic® . Some patients liken the sensation to that of a bug bite. Others report minor and temporary discomfort.
- How long before I see the effects of BOTOX Cosmetic®?
After about three days, you should begin to see the effects of BOTOX Cosmetic® with the maximum benefit being reached within one to two weeks.
- How long will the effects of BOTOX Cosmetic® last?
The effects normally last for three to four months so that most people only require treatments about four times a year.
- Will my lines look worse if I choose not to continue?
Your lines will slowly revert to their original, pre-treatment appearance.
- What is the average age of a BOTOX Cosmetic® patient?
Any image-conscious man or woman who worries about their frown lines can consider BOTOX Cosmetic®.
- Are BOTOX Cosmetic® treatments expensive?
BOTOX Cosmetic® treatments are affordable and considered one of the least expensive aesthetic procedures.
- Who should administer BOTOX Cosmetic® ?
Any authorized health care professional can administer BOTOX Cosmetic® , but plastic surgeons, like Dr. Cohen, are usually more experienced.
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Facelift FAQ
- What are the risks and complications involved with having a facelift?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Smokers are required to refrain from smoking, before and after the procedure, for a minimum of four to six weeks, to reduce the likelihood of complications. Some possible risks are nerve damage and delayed wound healing. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- Who are the most suitable candidates for a facelift?
The ideal candidate for a facelift is someone with sagging skin around the face and neck, but whose skin still maintains some elasticity and whose bone structure is strong and well defined.
- How long will my facelift last?
A facelift will take off anywhere from 7 to 10 years. Some people have a single facelift and never need the procedure repeated. Others, however, decide to have more surgery in 15 years or so.
- How can I hide the scars?
It is a good idea to let your hair grow a little bit longer than you would normally. This will help to hide the scars during the healing process. In addition, there are some wonderful camouflage cosmetics that are designed specifically to conceal and/or disguise the scars.
- Will I be able to be in the sun?
Sun protection, with at least an SPF of 15, should be used for the first six months after surgery. It is always a good idea to protect the skin from the damaging rays of the sun, and this can also preserve the facelift.
- Can multiple procedures be done simultaneously?
Yes, including eyelid lifts, forehead and neck lifts.
- Is there such a thing as a scarless facelift?
Endoscopic surgery can be done with very small scars, and is usually used to lift the eyebrows, remove frown lines, elevate the cheeks and jowls, and tighten the neck. But, if there is excess skin, it must be removed with standard facelift incisions. Most of the scars from a facelift, however, are barely noticeable, especially as time goes on and they fade.
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Liposuction FAQ
- What are the risks and complications involved with having a liposculpture?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Some possible risks associated with liposuction are contour irregularities, dimpling, waviness, permanent bruising and numbness. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- Who are the best candidates for liposuction?
Healthy patients with localized deposits of fat (in diet-resistant areas) and good skin elasticity generally are the best candidates.
- Is the fat removal permanent?
Adults have a fixed number of fat cells part of which are permanently removed with liposuction. The remaining fat cells can grow larger, especially if you don't maintain a healthy diet and exercise regime. Problem spots can return, although weight gain after liposuction will usually be distributed elsewhere rather than the original problem areas.
- How long will it take before I achieve my final result?
The new body shape begins to emerge immediately. It could take up to three to six months for all of the swelling to resolve.
- Is liposuction safe?
It is safe when performed by a qualified surgeon, preferably board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who is experienced with the latest liposuction techniques. It is safer to have it performed in a hospital or out-patient facility along with a board certified anesthesiologist.
- Does liposuction hurt?
Due to the newer techniques, most patients feel less discomfort than they once did. Also, the long-acting local anesthetic solution that is used during the procedure minimizes the pain immediately following the procedure. Patients are usually feeling fine in two to three days.
- Is liposuction a replacement for diet and exercise?
Liposuction is an excellent way to contour the body, but is most effective on localized areas of fat, and is not intended as a replacement for diet and exercise.
- Which technique is best for me?
Dr. Cohen uses several techniques (ultrasonic, traditional or tumescent), and will recommend which one is best suited for you.
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Rhinoplasty FAQ
- What are the risks and complications involved with having a rhinoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Dr. Cohen will fully present the risks and complications to you during your consultation. Having a qualified plastic surgeon perform your surgery minimizes the likelihood of complications.
- How old should I be to get my nose fixed?
Dr. Cohen recommends waiting until after maturity or a growth spurt to do nasal reshaping.
- Will my nose grow back to the way it was after the surgery?
No, it will not. Rhinoplasty is meant to last a lifetime.
- Will I have scars?
Most of the time, the incisions are inconspicuous. Occasionally, if the desire is to narrow the nose or to perform an open approach, incisions can be placed on or near the nose -- again, inconspicuously.
- Will I be able to be in the sun?
Sun protection, with at least an SPF of 15, should be used for the first six months after surgery. Sun can cause excessive scarring or can burn a nose after surgery. It is always a good idea to protect the skin from the damaging rays of the sun.
- Can I wear contact lenses or glasses after the surgery?
Contact lenses can be worn immediately after surgery. Glasses, that rest on the bridge of the nose, should not be worn due to the potential for injuring the underlying structures.
- Will I be able to blow my nose?
Dr. Cohen will probably suggest that you refrain from blowing your nose for a week or so until the tissues inside your nose have sufficiently healed.
- Will the swelling last a long time?
Most patients experience five to seven days of discoloration and swelling. Ice or frozen peas can be applied for the first 24 to 48 hours. The nose, itself, can be swollen for many weeks after surgery. It takes several months to see the final results due to the progressive resolution of swelling.
- Will insurance cover the procedure if I have a deviated septum?
If you are having a deviated septum corrected or other breathing problems addressed and cosmetic improvement as well, the insurance may cover a part of the procedure. It is best to check with your insurance carrier as to whether or not the procedure is covered.
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