General Information
DEFINITION--Implantation of artificial material inside the female breasts to
enlarge them or give them a different shape.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Female breasts; underlying muscles.
REASONS FOR SURGERY
- Restoration of normal breast appearance after a mastectomy.
- Enlargement of the breasts in patients who have less breast tissue than they desire.
- Correction of asymmetry of the breasts.
SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH
- Smoking.
- Obesity.
- Excess alcohol consumption.
- Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep
inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
- Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens;
marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.
What To Expect
WHO OPERATES--Plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital; doctor's office; or outpatient surgical facility.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
- Before surgery: Blood studies; mammogram (See Glossary).
- After surgery: Blood studies.
ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection or inhalation; local anesthesia by
injection.
DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION
- Incisions may be made under the breast, through the nipple or in the armpit.
- The breast tissue is brought forward by raising muscles from below the breast or the
muscles next to the chest wall.
- A pocket is created, and the implant (a mammary prosthesis filled with saline) is
inserted. The procedures are usually repeated on the other breast.
- The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week
after surgery. A light bandage is applied.
- A bra or elastic bandage is fitted to give support and to reduce possible bleeding.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Excessive bleeding.
- Surgical-wound infection.
- Formation of a thickened band of tissue from bleeding around the breast. This will make
the breast more firm to the touch than usual.
- Implant may become dislodged or rupture (rare).
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.
PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2
weeks for recovery from surgery. The implants do not interfere with future detection of
any abnormal lumps in the breast.
Postoperative Care
GENERAL MEASURES
- Hard ridges may form along the incision. The ridges will heal and recede gradually
without treatment.
- Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incisions gently with mild unscented soap.
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling and to relieve incisional pain.
† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.
ACTIVITY
- Resume daily activities and work as soon as possible.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery.
- Resume driving 1 week after returning home.
DIET---No special diet.
Call Your Doctor If
† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
- You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill
feeling and fever.
- You experience new symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.
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