Dr. Saba on How to Maintain and Retain a Successful Breast Augmentation

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Saba Motakef

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Saba Motakef — better known as Dr. Saba — has helped countless patients discover new confidence through cosmetic procedures. Breast augmentation is one of the most asked-for treatments he offers.

Dr. Saba takes pride in delivering beautiful results to his patients. “I would say that, compared to some other surgeons in the industry, my aesthetic is very natural,” he says. “That’s the look that I go for. I think the patients who are drawn to me are patients who are looking for that more natural look.”

Once the surgery is complete, it’s up to the patient to maintain their results — and it all starts with taking the right post-op steps. Dr. Saba stresses the importance of following all post-surgery instructions, including wearing support garments and avoiding heavy lifting in the early stages of healing.

He also notes the importance of a healthy lifestyle when it comes to healing. “You should drink plenty of water and eat nutrient-rich foods to support recovery and reduce inflammation,” he says. “And you should also avoid smoking and alcohol. Smoking impairs circulation and healing, while alcohol can increase the risk of complications and dehydration.”

Typically, he asks patients to come in for a follow-up one to two days after the surgery. If there are no issues with healing, he might ask them to return after two weeks and again after four to six weeks.

However, breast augmentation isn’t a procedure that a patient should just schedule, recover from, and forget about. Dr. Saba explains that while immediate follow-up is absolutely critical, patients should also have a long-term monitoring plan.

“You should follow up with your surgeon every year for the first few years to ensure implant integrity and optimal results,” he says. “Annual check-ins let your surgeon assess implant positioning and detect any early signs of complications, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture.”

Capsular contracture is a complication where the scar tissue around the breast implant tightens. It can cause significant pain and give a patient’s breasts an unnatural appearance. Some cases will require revision surgery, but if a patient’s surgeon catches capsular contracture early on, it may be successfully treated with less drastic measures.

In addition to following their long-term monitoring plans, patients should establish habits that help prolong the life of their breast implants. Along with avoiding nicotine and alcohol, one of the most important is maintaining a stable weight.

“Significant weight fluctuations can stretch the skin and affect the appearance of breast implants,” Dr. Saba says. “It’s also best to wear a supportive sports bra during physical activities and avoid high-impact chest exercises that place direct strain on the pectoral muscles and implants, especially in the first six to twelve months.”

For patients, breast augmentation is an investment — and not just a monetary one. By staying committed to a healthy lifestyle, patients can preserve their results and enjoy their new, improved physiques for years to come.

Disclaimer: Written in partnership with APG.

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