Breast Augmentation in San Jose - Risks and Recovery

Most women who undergo breast augmentation in the San Jose area achieve the results they desire with little to no complications. As technology improves, procedures become safer and more effective, but all surgical procedures possess some degree of risk. As a highly credentialed surgeon and a former presenter and instructor to the American Society of Breast Surgeons, Dr. Daryl K. Hoffman fully understands the risks, and has the training and experience to minimize complications and enhance recovery.

To learn more about all aspects of breast augmentation, request your consultation with Dr. Hoffman, a board-certified, Stanford-trained plastic surgeon, or call him at (650) 325-1118 (Palo Alto) or (408) 292-1118 (Los Gatos) to schedule your appointment.

Breast Augmentation Risks

A common point of concern for many women when preparing for breast augmentation is the proper choice of breast implants. The 2 primary implant types in use today, silicone and saline, each have their own benefits and drawbacks, but the safety of each option is best discussed during a consultation with your surgeon.

One of the best ways to ensure a positive outcome from any plastic surgery is through understanding possible complications. A skilled breast surgeon such as Dr. Hoffman will take every available precaution to minimize the risks of any of these complications.

Capsular contracture – This occurs when scar tissue hardens and contracts, squeezing the implant too tightly. Although rare, severe cases of capsular contracture can require surgery or replacement of your implants.
Infection – Infection can occur with any surgery, including breast augmentation. Preventative antibiotics are given to reduce this risk.
Scarring – Scars will occur due to the incisions made during surgery. Experienced surgeons can significantly reduce the visibility of scars with technical experience and innovative incision placement, depending on the implant type.
Reduced nipple sensation – This occurs in rare cases, and is often temporary. Most women retain nipple sensation and are also able to breastfeed following surgery as well.
Asymmetry - It's impossible to create 2 identical breasts, but some women note a visible level of asymmetry after their implants settle into place.
Wrinkling or rippling - This can occur along the upper portion of the breasts, and is more common with certain implant types and placements.

Although uncommon, these risks should be understood by all women before committing to breast augmentation. Understanding these potential complications can help you to be prepared, minimize risk factors, and ultimately obtain the results you desire. If you want bigger breasts without the complications associated with implants, you may want to consider natural breast augmentation from Dr. Hoffman. This procedure uses your body's own fat to enhance your breasts, thereby eliminating the need for implants.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

Dr. Hoffman's breast augmentation patients can see results immediately, and most are able to resume normal activities such as driving within a week of surgery. Strenuous activity should be avoided for the first 3 weeks.

Although most patients follow a similar recovery pattern, factors such as skin tone, age and extent of surgery can affect your ability to resume daily activities. Dr. Hoffman recommends resting and light walking for the first 48 hours, and avoiding sun exposure to minimize scarring. Patients are given medication for pain and to prevent infection, and a support bra to promote proper healing. More detailed recovery and aftercare instructions are provided prior to surgery.

Dr. Hoffman is dedicated to providing excellent care during every stage of the surgery process. Together with his dedicated staff, Dr. Hoffman offers the most advanced surgical procedures to ensure safe and effective results.