In a world where body image and self-perception have a significant impact on a person’s emotional well-being, it is essential to recognize that breast augmentations are not solely about aesthetics. Nashville plastic surgeon and The Aesthetic Society Board Member, Kent “Kye” Higdon, MD, sheds light on the transformative power of breast augmentation surgeries in the lives of his patients. For many, like Angel, this procedure is a path to restoring confidence, femininity, and overall well-being.
A Journey of Restoration and Transformation
Breast augmentations have the potential to go beyond mere aesthetics and delve into the realms of self-restoration and transformation. From asymmetries at birth to substantial shifts due to weight loss or pregnancies, Dr. Higdon notes how various life experiences can impact a woman’s body image and self-esteem. “Breast augmentation serves as a powerful solution to restore patients’ perception of themselves, helping them align with their ideal self and fostering inner confidence,” says Dr. Higdon.
Unleashing the Power of Breast Augmentations
Dr. Higdon has witnessed the power breast augmentations have in patients’ lives first-hand and, in one word, calls it “restorative.” From offering a larger cup size to correcting asymmetry, breast augmentation can grant women the confidence they’ve been seeking to pursue the next step in their careers or finally chase that life goal. “Breast augmentation can have a strong effect on their feeling of their proportion, their femininity, and overall well-being,” confirms Dr. Higdon.
The Consultation: An Empowering Decision-Making Process
An essential aspect of the breast augmentation journey is the initial consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will guide you through the various methods of augmentation, such as silicone and saline implants, and the revolutionary technique of autologous fat grafting (augmenting the breasts with your body’s own fat). Together, you will explore incision options and discuss implant size (Dr. Higdon explains there is an FDA-mandated conversation and checklist to sign if the patient selects this route) to ensure the chosen approach aligns with your desires and anatomy.
Preparing for a Life-Changing Transformation
Preparation for surgery involves focusing on your overall health and lifestyle choices. Dr. Higdon advises maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding extreme weight fluctuations. Full disclosure of medications and smoking habits, including E-cigarettes and vaping, is crucial to optimize healing and results.
The Journey to Recovery
Post-op downtime typically spans four to six weeks, depending on your surgery, during which patients will have some minor restrictions. Dr. Higdon emphasizes the importance of following guidelines, such as sleeping positions and lifting restrictions, to ensure the best possible outcome.
Embracing Empowerment: Advice for Aspiring Patients
If you’ve been considering a breast augmentation but can’t seem to take the plunge, Dr. Higdon’s best advice is all about surgeon selection: “Make sure you choose a plastic surgeon certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery that has experience in aesthetic surgery, particularly breast augmentation surgery,” Dr. Higdon stresses. “There is a difference that board certification ensures, and that particular doctor would have the experience to give you what you want, but also be able to do it effectively and safely for you.”
Additionally, board certified plastic surgeons will have the confidence and expertise to guide and coach you along the breast augmentation process and ensure you’re confident, comfortable, and safe every step of the way.
The Bottom Line
Angel’s vulnerable journey and Dr. Higdon’s experience in empowering his patients through breast augmentation surgeries both exemplify the transformative nature of the procedure. By restoring self-confidence and promoting self-love, breast augmentations serve as a powerful tool for women to embrace their authentic selves, both inside and out.
To receive more information about breast augmentation or find a board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeon near you, visit The Aesthetic Society’s website at theaestheticsociety.org
