BREAST SURGERY SIZE

One of the most important decisions of breast augmentation surgery is the size of the implant. Dr. Harris encourages each patient to describe her goals and expectations of the surgery. After this information is given, the patient then tries on various sizers which give additional suggestion as to the patient’s desired size. After breast and chest measurements are taken during the examination, the patient’s implant size is chosen. The patient is shown what implants sizes are available and the final decision is made according to the patient’s goals. Dr. Harris’ patients can rest comfortably the night before knowing the size of the implant will be the size that was chosen in the office prior to surgery.

Most patients are given a choice of incisions as well. The primary incisions are under the arm (endoscopic axillary), lower nipple, or inframammary crease. Some patient might require a mastopexy or a breast lift and this incision resembles a ‘lollipop’ circumferentially around the nipple and extending down vertically at the base of the nipple towards the inframammary crease. This incision is used primarily on breasts that demonstrate extreme sagging and downward positioning of the nipple. The benefits and trade-offs of each of the incisions; axillary, inframammary, or nipple, are described to each patient and the patient is allowed to make the decision herself as to her preferred incision if she is a candidate for this procedure.

The saline versus silicone decision will also be discussed with each patient. The long term follow-ups, post-operative appearance differences, and current medical information is provided to the patient in detail.

The anesthesia used for breast augmentation is general endotracheal anesthesia and this is provided by a board certified doctor of anesthesia in a certified outpatient surgery center.

Patients usually are off work for one week although this might vary depending on the physical job description. For instance, mothers might have difficulty with picking up toddlers or young children during the early weeks of surgery depending on the child’s weight. Waitresses and hairdressers also may require longer time for recovery due to the physical nature of their jobs. Patients who have desk jobs usually are able to return to work after a week.

Most women are still able to breast feed after the surgery because the milk ducts are left unharmed during the procedure. There is no guarantee that women can breast feed after the surgery as some women find it difficult even without any breast surgery history.

Most women are able to resume all physical activities by 6 weeks. At this time, the breast has had time to heal and the implants have begun to settle. Early in the post-operative course, the implants are somewhat high and tight and it normally takes 6 to 8 weeks for the breasts to soften and the implant to take on the anticipated shape.

Early strenuous activity is not encouraged because it may lead to increased scarring or bleeding. Patients are usually seen one week, one month and three months after surgery and precise massage technique, exercise limitations and use of supportive garments are described to the patient at that time. Always, if a patient has any concerns, she is to notify the office and Dr. Harris will see her.