Breast implant procedures can be performed on an outpatient (not hospitalized) basis or at a hospital. Breast implant surgery can be done under local anesthesia, or under general anesthesia.
Breast implant surgery can last from one to several hours depending on whether the implant is inserted behind or in front of the chest muscle, and whether surgery is performed on one or both breasts. Prior to surgery, the doctor should discuss with you the extent of surgery, the estimated time it will take, and the choice of drugs for pain and nausea.
Postoperative Recovery
The doctor should describe to you the usual postoperative recovery process, the possible complications that can arise, and the expected recovery period. Following the operation, as with any surgery, some pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness can be expected, but they should disappear with time.
Medications for pain and nausea can be prescribed. Some women may experience fever, bleeding or other symptoms of infection; these should be reported immediately to the doctor. Patients should be instructed about wound healing and appropriate wound care.
If the surgery is done in a hospital, the length of the hospital stay will vary according to the type of surgery, the development of any postoperative complications, your general health, and the type of coverage your insurance provides.