Breast Surgery FAQ, Breast Surgery Testimonials, and Before &
After Breast Surgery Photos
INTRODUCTION TO
BREAST SURGERY Dr. Harris believes that the patient needs to verbalize her goals during the
breast augmentation consult so that the final decisions of the implant selection
will please the patient not only immediately but also in the future. The primary
decisions that patients may contribute to include: saline vs silicone, size,
and incision site.
A woman’s breasts help define her femininity,
and with the vast differences in shape, size, and appearance, breasts
further help to define her individualism.
Therefore, changes to the breasts can be dissatisfying and make women feel
as if they are losing some of their femininity and youthful vitality. Like
other areas of the body, the breasts undergo changes in response to factors
such as genetics, the aging process, pregnancy and breast feeding, weight
gain or loss, and hormonal fluctuations.
Breasts that were once firm and shapely often begin to sag and droop giving
them a loose or heavy appearance. A breast lift, or mastopexy, can help
restore a firmer, shapelier breast, which will improve body contours and
give the breasts a perky, youthful appearance
Awarded artist and cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Elizabeth Harris talks about
different breast surgery procedures.
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.
BREAST SURGERY INCISIONS
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.
SALINE VERSUS SILICONE FOR BREAST SURGERY
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.
ANESTHESIA AND SURGERY CENTER FOR BREAST SURGERY
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.
PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS AFTER BREAST SURGERY
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.
BREAST FEEDING AFTER BREAST SURGERY
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.
HEALING AFTER BREAST SURGERY
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.
ACTIVITY AFTER BREAST SURGERY
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.
Before and After Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast Reduction Patient 1
Breast Reduction Patient 2
Breast Reduction Patient 3
Breast Lift
Surgery
Before and After Plastic Surgery Photos
Breast Lift
Patient 1
Breast Lift
Patient 2
Breast Surgery Testimonials
"I consulted with several different plastic surgeons and chose the Center
for Cosmetic Surgery because Dr Harris was so nice and easy to talk to.
I knew that Dr. Harris had a good reputation in town and I heard excellent
things about her from friends.
I did not like other offices that would not let you see the doctor until you
signed up for surgery or hurried you through the process.
At the Center for Cosmetic Surgery, I met Dr.
Harris during the initial visit. I never felt rushed, and always felt
comfortable.
I am very happy
with my results and I wish I had done the procedure sooner.
I always brag about how talented Dr. Harris is and always recommend her to
everyone. I also have a ton of compliments whenever I discuss my procedure."
Dr. Harris, I just wanted to drop you a line to say Hello and not a day
goes by that I don't more than appreciate your artistic and surgical abilities!
I have many friends and even a family member who have had Breast Augmentation
done and without a doubt you do the most beautiful work! It's been almost 6 yrs.
since my surgery and I just wanted to say thank you! My breasts and tummy look
so natural and that is a compliment to your artistery!! Hope you are still
swimming.
Sincerely, Stephanie
Just want to let you know how much I appreciate you and wanted to Thank
You for a job well done. My implants are looking good and my eyes are
beautiful. Your are a great asset to your profession.
See you soon, Love ya,L.S
Dear Dr. Harris,
"Dr. Harris, you have helped me restore my
self confidence and have taken such good care of me. My breast looks better than
I ever could have imagined."
NM
Pleasecontactthe
Center for Cosmetic Surgery today for more information on breast reconstruction.
Center For Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Elizabeth S. Harris 540 N. Madison Oak Suite 400
San Antonio, TX 78258
Phone 210.545.4848 / Fax 210.545.5565 email us
