Question 1

How old do I have to be for Breast surgery in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

You must be 20 years old to have breast surgery in Thailand unless you have a parent to sign the content at the hospital and must be with you during the duration of the surgery and for duration of the stay. This is hospital policy and is enforced.

Question 2

What surgeons do you use?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Preeyaphas Nilubol, Dr Palapong Chayangsu and Dr Chatchai Pruksapong are used for all cosmetic/plastic surgeries.

Question 3

What hospital do Bangkok Makeover’s use and the address?

Accepted Answer

We use Vimut Theptarin hospital, Bangkok. 3850 Rama 4 Road Prakanong Bangkok 10110.

Question 4

Do I have to get immunisations prior to surgery?

Accepted Answer

No if just visiting Bangkok. Otherwise it is advised to visit your GP and they have a list of immunisations required for each country.

Question 5

What medication can and can’t I take prior to surgery?

Accepted Answer

Anti-coagulants (blood thinners) if you taking Clopidogrel, Heparin, Warfarin, Aspirin, Gingko-Biloba, Vitamin A & E, etc.

The dosage will need to be adjusted or stopped 5-7 days before any surgical operations/procedures. You can take panadol and nurofen prior to surgery for headaches if needed.

If you exercise and use workout supplements please stop protein supplements 5-7 days prior to surgery and you can resume this 5-7 days after surgery. For pre-workout supplements these should be stopped 1 month prior and should not be resumed for 1 month after.

Remember: No supplement natural or not should be taken continuously. You should cycle your supplements.

Question 6

What medications should I stop before surgery?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended not to take any aspirin containing medication, ibuprofen containing medication or any herbs or weight loss medications for at least 2 weeks before surgery. Alcohol must also be stopped 7 days before surgery.

Question 7

Can I smoke before and after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Do not smoke or use tobacco or nicotine products (snuff, chewing tobacco, Nicorette gym, nicotine inhaler or nicotine skin patches) 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery, if you are caught smoking or we find out you have been smoking you run the risk of your surgery being cancelled.

Our surgeons will not operate on clients that are not it good health. Smoking can lead to skin loss, skin death (necrosis), and slow wound healing that will ruin the result of your surgery leaving you with permanent deforming scars.

Smoking also increases the risk of coughing after your surgery that leads to unwanted bleeding.

For general health reasons, we recommend all patients stop smoking. Note: if you are a heavy smoker it is 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery.

Question 8

What is Necrosis?

Accepted Answer

Skin necrosis is a complication that results in the death of the skin tissue. The risk of skin necrosis is significantly heightened when one smokes during the few weeks before surgery or by smoking during the initial weeks of post-op.

This is because nicotine can cause the blood vessels beneath the skin to become constricted, thus blocking the flow of blood and oxygen to the skin.

Because these blood vessels sometimes represent the only blood supply to certain skin tissues, the tightening of these vessels that results from smoking can have severe consequences. Moreover, the carbon monoxide that is produced during smoking may further decrease oxygen levels flowing to the skin, increasing your chances of getting skin necrosis.

For this reason, it is important to stop smoking for 2 (light smoker) - 4 (heavy smoker) weeks before surgery and for 2 (light smoker) - 4 (heavy smoker) weeks following surgery.

Question 9

Can I drink alcohol before or after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol is also not permitted 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after the course of antibiotics is finished so totally 3 weeks from day of surgery. We take the health of our clients if you are caught drinking your surgery will be cancelled.

If you are a heavy drinker alcohol is not permitted 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery. Alcohol interferes with anaesthetic medicines. In addition, alcohol may result in excessive bleeding, delayed healing and adverse results.

Question 10

Does the surgery have to be paid in Thai Baht?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must pay the surgery in Thai Baht if paying cash. All monies must be exchanged to Thai Baht prior to the appointment. This can be done at the airport. If paying with credit or debit card it will be charged in Thai Baht and converted in to AUD on your bank statement.

Some clients choose to pay this direct to the hospital prior to coming over for surgery. This has to be done minimum of 6 weeks in advance and you must contact us at bangkokmakeover@gmail.com (bangkokmakeover@gmail.com)for all the information.

Note: this transfer will incur an extra fee charged by the hospital’s bank.

Question 11

Do your surgeons provide any guarantee for any work for which they are at fault?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if it is their fault then their fees will be free this excludes hospital, medication, flights and accommodation fees…. Purely surgeon fees only!

Please note that we have no control over the hospital fees and this makes up a large portion of the overall fee.

Surgeon fees vary surgeon to surgeon.

You will need to contact bangkokmakeover@gmail.com (bangkokmakeover@gmail.com)for more information on this cost.

Question 12

How long is this guarantee for?

Accepted Answer

If it's the doctor’s fault, you will know within the first months but they have no time frame. It is incredibly important to follow post-op care to avoid any complications.

Question 13

What brand are the implants?

Accepted Answer

Mentor branded implants. More information can be found at www.mentorwwllc.com

All clients are given their Mentor serial number ID cards for each implant. This is also kept on record at the hospital.

Question 14

What are the implants filled with?

Accepted Answer

Medical grade silicone memory gel or medical grade saline.

NOTE: Bangkok Makeovers only offer Silicon (Memory Gel), Mentor brand implants.

Question 15

How do I decide on the incision (approach) to be used during breast augmentation?

Accepted Answer

Several approaches are available to perform the breast augmentation. These include the following: an incision under the areola, under the breast (just above the inframammary fold), and in the axilla (arm pit).

The choice of incision is a decision made by the patient and the surgeon. In general, we try to use the incision which is best hidden and therefore less visible.

Often times, this decision is made based on the patient’s anatomy. For example, if the patient has some amount of excess skin under the breast, an incision can be well hidden in this area (just above the inframammary fold) otherwise an incision around the areola tends to heal very nicely and becomes barely visible with time.

Note: Bangkok Makeovers only uses the inframammary fold for standard breast augmentation and the areola for lifts.

Question 16

How do I decide to go over or under the muscle with the breast implant?

Accepted Answer

The decision to do a submuscular (under the muscle) or sub glandular (under the breast tissue) or sub-pectoral (dual plane/partial) breast augmentation is based on several factors. Some of these factors include the patient’s preference and the patient’s anatomy.

Each type of augmentation has its pro’s and con’s. In general, however, all things being equal, Bangkok Makeovers prefer to do submuscular/subpectoral breast augmentations. This type of augmentation is associated with less chance of seeing or feeling the breast implant.

This operation is also associated with a decreased risk of breast implant hardening (encapsulation or scar tissue formation). Submuscular breast augmentation interferes with the performance of mammography less so than does sub glandular breast augmentation.

Note: Bangkok Makeovers only uses the submuscular/subpectoral augmentation to achieve an end result with fewer complications and a better aesthetic result.

Question 17

What is the difference between textured and smooth implants?

Accepted Answer

Texturing refers to the surface of the breast implant. Textured implants have a rough surface in an attempt to prevent contracture formation (especially when the implants are placed above the muscle).

This does not appear to be relevant in the submuscular position. Textured implants may be associated with rippling more than smooth implants.

NOTE: Bangkok Makeovers only uses smooth implants we DO NOT offer textured implants

Question 18

Do you offer different types of implant shapes such as round and teardrop?

Accepted Answer

Bangkok Makeovers only offers Mentor round implant shape.

Question 19

Why do I have to massage?

Accepted Answer

You only massage smooth implants. Massaging helps create an open pocket for the implant and will help keep the implants feeling soft and natural. It also minimises the risk of CC. Massaging is to be done 2-3 times a day for 6 months.

If you forget your massaging techniques contact us at Bangkok Makeovers or here is a video on YouTube ......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_kCepUtS_I

Question 20

Can I get a prepaid sim (micro or standard) for my phone

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a 7 Eleven located near the apartments and they sell these extremely cheap.

Question 21

If something happens during surgery and a blood transfusion is required - Where does the blood come from?

Accepted Answer

Blood would be checked to the same standards that you would have in any hospital in Australia or America. The blood is supplied by Thai Red Cross.

Question 22

Will I need time off work?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that you take one week off of work after breast augmentation surgery. Your line of work will affect the overall time off you will need to recover. Contact us for more information.

Question 23

When can I remove the Steri-Strips?

Accepted Answer

Let them fall off by themselves. If they are coming off and look dirty use an antibacterial wash to help remove them softly. DO NOT pull them off like a bandaid you risk opening the incision.

Question 24

How much will I need for everything including flights, accommodation, surgery, medicine and spending money?

Accepted Answer

This is dependent on where you are flying from, how long you are staying, what surgery you are having, what medicine you require and how much shopping and how many tours you want to do.

Question 25

When can I lift heavy things or go to the gym/exercise (including yoga, Pilates, dance, pole dancing, gym classes (pump, combat etc) anything that is related to exercise whether low, medium or high intensity?

Accepted Answer

It is not recommended to do heavy weight lifting or strenuous exercise until 6 weeks after the procedure. Any exercise (such as the ones listed above but not limited to) that uses your upper body needs to be avoided for 6 weeks. Your chest areas needs time to heal and if you do anything too soon you risk complications.

It is also recommended not to drive 2 weeks after surgery.

Patients may walk and do leg exercises soon after the procedure. You can work out prior to surgery but no chest region e.g. push-ups and weights that train that area - two weeks before surgery.

Question 26

There is a ‘squishy’ or ‘farting’ like sound in my breasts is this normal.

Accepted Answer

Yes this is normal it is just air pockets around the area and they remove themselves.

Question 27

I am having sharp pains is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is normal they are more frequent after post-op and subside not long after. It is common to have random pain up-to 12 months post-op and then every now and then. If the pain last awhile and does disappear then contact us or see your GP.

Question 28

Is it necessary to wait until after having children before having breast augmentation surgery?

Accepted Answer

No, this is personal choice to each women, it is recommended that if you haven’t had children and are considering it to have the implants placed behind the muscle so breastfeeding isn’t affected. The implants won’t affect the ability to breastfeed.

Question 29

How do I decide what size to go?

Accepted Answer

This is best discussed with your plastic surgeon to see if your desired result can be achieved. The size of your chest wall and the amount of existing breast tissue can affect this.

Question 30

Do breast implants interfere with mammography?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Breast implants, regardless of their location in the submuscular or sub glandular location, can interfere with mammography. Generally, the breast implants placed in the submuscular position tend to interfere with mammography less than those placed below breast tissue. Mammography centres are well accustomed to performing mammography on patients who have had breast implants (using displacement techniques).

Question 31

Can I have cosmetic tattooing done in Bangkok?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is done at Union Mall

Question 32

Can I get a tattoo in Bangkok before or after surgery

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as it isn’t in the area of your surgery.

Question 33

Can I have Botox or fillers done in Bangkok?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can organise this.

Question 34

Do you offer dental procedures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do offer various dental procedures please contact us if you are interested in dental work and we can organise for you and provide you a quote.

Question 35

Can sensation of the nipple/areola be lost after breast augmentation surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a small percentage can lose sensation.

Question 36

What is capsular contracture?

Accepted Answer

This is scar tissue that forms around the breast implants causing the breasts to harden. This hardening may be associated with tenderness and pain. This is the most common complication with breast augmentation. Submuscular breast augmentation helps to deter capsular contracture. Massage may be useful, especially for implants placed above the muscle. If severe capsular contracture occurs, it may be necessary to remove the scar tissue and replace the implant (preferably in a submuscular position).

Question 37

Who should perform my breast augmentation surgery?

Accepted Answer

The physicians most qualified to perform breast augmentation surgeries are board certified plastic surgeons. It is important to get information regarding the surgeon’s training. Bangkok Makeovers have their own private select team of highly qualified plastic surgeons.

Question 38

What do the implants feel like?

Accepted Answer

In general, implants feel firmer than your own breast tissue. Also, the appearance and feel of augmented breasts depends on how much breast tissue the patient had pre-operatively. In general, the more tissue the patient the patient has pre-operatively, the more natural the look and feel post-operatively.

Question 39

How do I reduce nausea postoperatively?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, nausea is a common problem after many surgical procedures. Many medications can be used intra-operatively in an attempt to reduce this problem. Post-operatively, nausea can be reduced by minimizing the use of narcotics and taking the medication with a small amount of food in the stomach. If nausea is not relieved by these measures, anti-nausea medication may be prescribed.

Question 40

How do I know if I need a breast lift?

Accepted Answer

A breast lift (mastopexy) is an operation used to treat ‘sagging’ breasts. A consultation with a well-qualified plastic surgeon can help answer this question for you. In general, evaluating the position of the nipple/areola complex in relation to the fold under the breast (infra-mammary fold) will help determine the need for lifting. Different types of breast lifting operations are available depending on the severity of the sagging. Reviewing pictures of patients with similar situations may be helpful in deciding how to proceed.

Question 41

What can I expect post-operatively?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, most patients experience a moderate to significant discomfort post-operatively. This seems to be increased with submuscular breast augmentation compared to sub glandular breast augmentation. Many patients are unable to sleep because they are not used to sleeping on their backs. Soreness of the back and neck may be related to this difficulty finding a comfortable position. Some patients choose to use 2 pillows and sleep in a reclined position.

Question 42

What is symmastia?

Accepted Answer

This is when the two breasts communicate in the midline (cleavage area). This may be done to “increase cleavage” by dividing the soft tissue or muscle fibers at the medial edges of the breast. This can be seen with implants placed over or under the muscle. It is a correctable problem.

Question 43

What is a “Tuberous Breast”?

Accepted Answer

Tuberous Breasts, otherwise known as constricted breasts, are associated with some breast tissue deficiency especially medially (around the cleavage area). The appearance of the breasts can vary greatly from a very severe deficiency of breast tissue to mild deficiency. Often times, the patient will have different size and shape between the right and left breast. This is a correctable condition. Often, implants can be used to improve the size, shape and symmetry of the breasts.

Question 44

When do the stitches come out?

Accepted Answer

The stitches usually come out 5-7 days after surgery.

Question 45

When can one shower after this procedure?

Accepted Answer

After the stitches are removed, the patient is allowed to shower.

Question 46

If I have to have the surgery redone later in life, will the incision be made in the same place as the original?

Accepted Answer

Usually, yes, the incision would be made in the same area.

Question 47

Do you make oversized pockets?

Accepted Answer

Pockets are slightly larger than the implants used. This will allow for some movement of the implants so as to resemble natural breasts as much as possible.

Question 48

If I develop a capsule and the implants have to be removed, will I be able to have them put back again?

Accepted Answer

Most of the time, patients wish to have implants replaced after removal of capsules (capsulotomy). We cannot guarantee that the capsule will not return a second time.

NOTE: Bangkok Makeovers only uses MENTOR branded implants

Question 49

What is the best way for me to determine the size implant I will need to go from where I am to where I want to be?

Accepted Answer

Often, by looking at pictures, we can ascertain your goals of size and shape of breast desired.

Question 50

When can I sleep on my stomach?

Accepted Answer

You need to sleep upright for the first 2 weeks than ease into it. You will find this hard and probably have to readjust your sleeping to be a side/back sleeper. Depending on the size you go this should be easier within 2-3 month and should feel comfortable within 6-12 months. Note some client cannot ever sleep on their tummy again as it is too uncomfortable for them.

Question 51

Who prescribes the painkillers and can we collect them prior to surgery?

Question 52

How long will I have to wear this post-op bra?

Question 53

How long do I have to wear the bandeau (strap)?

Question 54

How long is the recovery?

Question 55

I am having my surgery in sunny Thailand can I sunbake?

Question 56

When can I go swimming?

Question 57

What can I use on my scars?

Question 58

My implants are sitting high, is this normal?

Question 59

What are the types of implants?

Question 60

What sizes are available?

Question 61

What is bottoming out?

Question 62

Are you able to contact your plastic surgeon afterwards with questions about your healing progress

Question 63

Are you able to guarantee that the surgeon I choose will be available for my surgery and not 'replaced' by another who works at the hospital?

Question 64

Can the plastic surgeons speak good English?

Frequently Asked Questions