Breast Augmentation & Post-Op Side Effects
Thousands of women have breast augmentation every year, and for most of them, the after-care is fairly standard: rest, pain medication, carefully changing the dressings and draining the surgery site, when necessary, and using soothing ointments to help the skin heal quickly. While infection does occur in a relatively small amount of cases, there are some normal side effects that occur universally.
Generally, plastic surgeons explain the common side effects before surgery, so that patients are adequately prepared, but when a person is experiencing the symptoms remembering that they are normal reactions - natural parts of the healing process - may be difficult. This, then, is a brief overview of the most common post-operative side effects that breast augmentation patients are likely to experience.
Bruising does not always appear post-surgery, and the extent of it is largely dependent on the size of the implants that were placed, and the method of implantation. In rare cases, bruising can extend down onto the abdomen. Normal bruising generally fades within two weeks, but if the bruised areas are large or extremely firm it may be indicative of a hematoma and a doctor should be consulted. Swelling can occur as well, with or without accompanying bruising, and again, this is normal unless it seems excessive. Sleeping in a semi-reclining position and wearing special surgical bras can help reduce post-operative swelling.
Because breast augmentation involves stretching the skin, which must then grow to accommodate the volume of the newly placed implants, there can be a lot of itching. It is important not to scratch, and to stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water. Patients may find relief by using cream or lotion, and if there is excessive itching, a prescription anti-itch ointment may be recommended.
It is extremely common for nipple sensation to change after breast augmentation surgery, either by becoming numb, or becoming extremely sensitive. The change in sensation is related to the nerves in the breasts being disturbed or displaced during surgery, and it is usually, but not always, temporary.
Mild to moderate pain is completely normal immediately after breast augmentation surgery, and generally lasts no more than a week or two. Most patients leave the clinic or hospital with a prescription for pain medication already in hand, and should take it as directed.
There is no way to avoid scarring after breast augmentation surgery, but most surgeons place their incisions in such a fashion as to minimize the amount of scarring that is visible after post-operative healing. To help speed the pace of healing, and help scars fade faster, various anti-scar ointments may be used, but it is also important not to stress the sutures. In some cases special surgical bras are advised, while other women find that wearing sports bras while they recuperate is the best option for them. It can take up to a year for scars to fade to their final appearance.
The implants used for breast augmentation, especially those that have been placed sub-muscularly, may take several weeks or longer to settle into their final position and appearance, and during this process the skin around them has to stretch and grow. During this time, patients may notice that their breasts seem too high, too rounded, or too tight, but once the breast tissue relaxes, these conditions generally go away. If they do not, women should consult their surgeons.
All of these side effects are perfectly normal for plastic surgery and parts of both the post-operative period and the healing process, but women are cautioned to trust their instincts about their bodies, and call their doctors if anything feels wrong.
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