Breast augmentation continues to be one of the leading plastic surgery procedures. Women of all ages undergo treatment to enhance breasts that have deflated and changed shape, never fully developed or have been altered by breast cancer treatment. The satisfaction rate among patients, regardless of their situation, is very high. Dr. Rosenthal is proud to offer various options for women seeking breast enlargement, including saline and silicone implants and fat grafting for subtle enlargement. Here, we discuss a few details of the pre- and post-operative aspects of breast augmentation.

Before Breast Surgery

There are both physical and emotional aspects of changing something about your body. Before breast augmentation, it is beneficial to be in optimal physical and emotional shape. Eat well. Sleep well. Gather the support system you will need as you recover from surgery. Also, make sure you can answer yes to questions like:

• Is this surgery for me and only for me?
• Do I love my body now?
• Do I fully understand the physical change that is possible for me?
• Am I completely comfortable with my plastic surgeon?
• Is now the best time for me to undergo this procedure?

As you move toward surgery with an optimal, realistic outlook, the physical details that need to be handled include:

• No smoking or nicotine products one month prior to surgery. Also, no smoking or nicotine until you have completely healed.
• Discuss all medications with your doctor, including vitamins and supplements and prescription and over-the-counter meds. Some medications may need to be switched or stopped before surgery.
• Avoid alcohol one week before surgery.
• Complete diagnostic or lab tests as requested.

After Breast Surgery

Recovery from breast augmentation should not be stressful or painful when you follow your surgeon’s guidelines. These may include expectations such as:

• A compression garment will be applied right after surgery. This should be worn at all times until your post-op visit. At that time, the garment may be changed but will continue to be necessary for approximately 4 weeks.
• Drains may be placed to reduce fluid accumulation. These should be emptied and recorded several times a day using provided instructions.
• Medications are provided for comfort and should be taken as prescribed even if you are not in pain.
• The first 24 hours after surgery should be spent resting. No driving and also no drinking. Walking is an encouraged activity to reduce the risk of blood clots.
• You may shower one to two days after surgery. A loved one may need to assist you to ensure incisions are kept clean and dry. They may be dabbed with hydrogen peroxide to promote healing.
• Call if swelling, bleeding, or pain seem excessive or if a fever of over 101 degrees develops.

Patients who undergo breast augmentation can expect to receive full, detailed instructions for their pre-and post-operative phases. The information here is intended to provide a general idea of what to expect during the treatment process. To learn more about breast augmentation, call 408-559-4700.