|
|
|
|
Table of Contents FAQ Breast Surgery
After surgery I hear a swishing sound ... ?Yes it is normal. After breast augmentation surgery, sounds may be heard around the implants. This sound is the implant and some fluid moving around the pocket. As time passes the fluid is absorbed and the swishing sound will go away. So do not worry. Back to Top
One of my breasts appears larger than the other one ?This situation is quite common. The breasts heal at different rates. The breasts will swell after any surgical procedure. In time the swelling will subside and the two breasts will be more similar in appearance. It may take up to two months for the swelling to go away. Back to Top
I feel a sudden sharp pain in my breast. Why ?After breast augmentation surgery the sensory nerves in the breast are stretched. The nerves react in a different way after this procedure. The nerve may be irritated or pinched. This condition is usually self limited. Try to move the implant in its pocket. Avoid sleeping on your side and prop yourself up in bed. These things usually help. Back to Top
How long does it take for the implants to "drop" ?The breast implants are placed into a pocket under your chest wall muscle. The pocket is usually larger than the implant itself. During the early healing period, the muscle is in spasm and this forces the implants up in the pocket. Usually within a 4-6 week time frame the muscle has stretched and is more accommodating to the implant. At this time the implant will settle in to its natural space. One implant may progress faster than the other, so try to be patient. Back to Top
How do I choose a size that is right for me ?The particular size that can be achieved varies with the individual and their anatomy. It is usually possible to go up one or two cup sizes. The most common requested cup size is a "C" cup. Please communicate your desires with your surgeon at the time of your preoperative visit. Look at pictures and bring them with you. Try to fill a stocking with rice. Each cup size equals one cup of rice. Fit this into your bra and it will give you an idea of the breast size. Back to Top
Will I still have the sensation in the nipple after surgery ?The majority of patients have no change in the sensation of the nipple following breast augmentation surgery. There may be a short time following the procedure that the skin of the breast has less sensation but this too will return. Even with the areola incision, sensation is usually preserved. Back to Top
Do I have to keep my bandages on after surgery?It is strongly encouraged that you keep your bandages on follow your surgery. If you have an ace wrap on it is there to help the implants fall into the pocket. If you have tape on your skin it is important to leave it until your surgeon removes it. If you have steri strips over the incision, leave the steri strips on. The steri strips can get wet. You may shower when instructed to do so. Back to Top
When can I start to work out with weights after my surgery?It is recommended that you not lift weights or perform vigorous exercise for at least 4-6 weeks following breast augmentation. The pectoral muscles will be sore and the healing process has not been completed. When you have no pain with arm lifting over your head, than you may begin to progress in your exercise program. Back to Top
When can I return to my regular work our program?Each person heals at a different rate. In approximately 3-4 weeks, you can begin to exercise. If you start too soon after your surgery more swelling and bruising may occur and the implants may not settle well into their pocket. You may begin a walking program early on after your surgery. Also, stretching and a gentle range of motion program is acceptable in the first week after your surgery.
Back to Top
When should I massage my breasts?Within one week you can start to massage the breasts. The reason this
is important is to help the pectoral muscles relax and allow the implants to
fall into the pocket. It is advisable to use ice packs for the first 48
hours. After this time has passed you can use heat followed by cool packs.
You should continue to massage the breasts and move the implants in an
effort to keep the pocket just slightly larger than the implants. Back to Top
Do you recommend Vitamin E ?We recommend the use of an oral Vitamin E to be started 1 weeks after your surgery. Current scientific studies warn patients to limit their intake of Vitamin E to 400 IU per day or less. You can start at a lower dose such as 100-200 IU per day and progress to 400 IU. Also rub some vitamin E cream or oil right onto the incision site as this will help fade the scar. You can begin this vitamin E topically after the steri strips are removed. Back to Top
When is it ok to have sex after breast surgery?This is certainly a personal issue. It is best to wait at least one month before manipulating the breasts. You can start a gentle massage of the breasts in the first week and this can be incorporated into a personal relationship. Avoid lying on your chest or having your partner lie directly on your chest for at least one month postoperatively. Back to Top
Can I still nurse after breast augmentation surgery?Yes. The ducts of the breasts are still attached to the nipple complex and nothing was altered during your breast augmentation surgery. If you had a breast lift (Mastopexy) the nipple may have been lifted and adjusted. Still the connection to the nipple was not altered. If you had a breast reduction, on the other hand, you may not be able to breast feed. Depending on the amount of tissue removed and the technique used, the nipple may not be functional after this type of surgery.
Back to Top
Are the implants ever going to leak or have a problem?The breast implants are made out of a silicone elastomer and this material is very strong. The design of the implant is made to last for your life time. Keep in mind that the implant is still a mechanical devise and may have a problem that can be corrected. Each of the implant manufacturers has a specific warrantee and we will discuss this with you during your consultation. They are all guaranteed against defects for your life time and the implant will be replaced at no charge to you. There may be an anesthesia and OR fee after several years. Please ask us about the specific details of your particular implant. Back to Top
What companies make the breast implants?Currently there are three companies that manufacture the breast implants. The companies include: Mentor H/S and McGhan Medical (an Inamed Company). They are all excellent companies with a very good product. You may see and feel each of the different implants in our facility. Back to Top
Should I be at my ideal weight before I have a breast implant procedure?You should be close to your ideal or stable weight. A significant loss of weight after receiving breast implants could alter the results in a manner that is not satisfactory to you. There could be some ptosis (drooping) and a reduction in size. A significant gain in weight could cause an increase in breast size. Back to Top
I'm over 40 and I would like to have my breasts augmented. Should my age influence my decision, and how long will my recovery be?Many women over 40 have successful breast augmentation procedures. Your general health, not your age, is the most important factor. The recovery period varies for every women. Some women take a week off from work, some take more or less time. The average time to return to your full activities is 4-6 weeks. We will advise you when and how to resume your normal activities. Back to Top
Should I perform Self breast examination If I have breast implants?
Know your breasts. It is never too early to start good habits regarding breast health. The Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation recommends monthly at home breast self-examinations (BSE) beginning at age 20 so a women can become familiar with the look and feel of her own breasts. Visit komen.com to order a free BSE card. A few minutes each month can affect the rest of your life. Back to Top
Can you teach me about breast anatomy?
Go to a new site sponsored by the ASPS and ASAPS that is filled with useful information about breast surgery and breast implant safety. Click here. Where finished, return to this site.
|
|
As shown in this example.
If you have implants, you
should perform breast self-examination monthly on
your implanted breast. In order to do this effectively, you should ask your
surgeon to help you distinguish the implant from your breast tissue. Press firmly inward at the edges of the implants to feel the ribs beneath,
checking for any lumps or bumps. However, be careful not to manipulate (i.e.,
squeeze) the valve on the implant excessively, which may cause valve leakage and
make the implant deflate. Any new lumps or suspicious lesions (sores) should be
evaluated with a biopsy. If a biopsy is performed, care must be taken to avoid
puncturing the implant. 
