Specific Facts about Breast Reduction (uplifting)
By Dr. Lisa Santos
Duration of the Surgical Result
The effects of breast reduction and uplift surgery are permanent. However, with time some descent of the breast tissue is the normal response to gravity and part of the normal
aging process. A small number of patients who undergo reduction will regain some breast volume, but this is rare.
Complications
From any type of surgery complications may occur. Those that occur in
breast surgery are most often minor in nature. The most common complication after surgery is a hematoma
(a collection of blood under the breast). Such complications as infection, skin ulceration, scar overgrowth and
nipple and/or skin slough also can occur -- but rarely. There may also be asymmetry or what is perceived as "not the expected result." Changes in nipple sensation are common
post-operatively but it usually returns with time. Only a very small percentage of patients will be able to breast feed post-operatively.
Photographs
Pre-operative medical photographs of your upper torso are
necessary for proper planning.
They help me in the evaluation of your breasts as I study them before your surgery. They are mounted in the operating room for reference during the operation. This aids greatly in the
performance of surgical variations as indicated for a given individual. They are strictly confidential and will be kept with your medical file.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia is required for breast reduction or
lifting. This requires the services of an expert anesthesiologist who will charge a separate fee. His fee is explained in the pre-operative instructions given to you by one of our office staff.
Operating Time
The actual surgical time will vary with the amount of surgery necessary for each patient.
Breast reduction usually requires about 4 ½ hours and breast lifting about 3 hours.
Hospital Stay
Your hospital stay
can vary, from an outpatient basis to a 1-2 night stay. This will be discussed with you in detail at the time of your visit. A physical examination and routine laboratory work will be performed prior to your surgery. A
brassiere with the cup size you desire that provides support without stays or underwire should be brought to the hospital to wear home.
Pain
Most patients do not have pain following breast surgery, but there
is some discomfort as you would expect. Any pain or discomfort is easily taken care of in this regard.
What to Expect
* Usually small bandages are applied to the breast after surgery. These are removed
at the time of suture removal.
* Stitches are usually removed on the fifth or sixth day following surgery. All stitches are removed by the tenth day. Removing stitches is quick and uncomplicated but you
must remain in the Houston area for a minimum of 10 days following surgery until the stitches are removed.
* A brassiere should be worn day and night during the first 3 weeks. Vigorous activity can be
resumed after 4 weeks. You may find an exercise-type bra to be more comfortable.
I PERFORM ALL SURGERY on my patients and am assisted by a hospital operating room technician. The Post-Operative period
Please remember that before you see the improvement, you are expecting, you will go through a standard post operative period in which you
will look different. Although healing is usually complete after 4 weeks, it may take some time to adjust to the change in appearance of your breasts. The final scar maturation takes approximately twelve months. If you have any questions, or if there is anything you do not
understand contact my office before your surgery date.
We will be happy to talk to you by phone or have you visit
the office. We want you to be a
well informed and happy patient. |
