What to Expect During Breast Augmentation Recovery

Breast augmentation is a great way to regain breast fullness, enlarge smaller breasts, or correct asymmetrical breasts. If you are healthy, you will tolerate the surgery quite well and enjoy more self-confidence after the procedure.

Good rapport with your plastic surgeon

A successful recovery begins with a good relationship with your plastic surgeon. Like any other surgery, breast augmentation has risks and possible complications. As a patient, you need as much support and information as possible to minimize the risk of complications after the procedure.

Finding a skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon is advisable. You should also look for a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable so that you can communicate honestly and know what to expect. At Politis Plastic Surgery, we have a compassionate, patient-centered approach to breast augmentation. This allows our patients to quickly establish a good rapport with their surgeon, something that is valuable during and after the procedure.

What should you expect soon after surgery?

Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure. You can expect it to be completed within 1 to 3 hours. Once the surgery is done, you will be moved to the recovery area and monitored for a while. If your plastic surgeon is satisfied with your response to the procedure, you will be allowed to go home the same day.

You can expect some pain and soreness after the anesthesia wears off. Gauze, a surgical bra, or an elastic bandage will be wrapped around your chest. You may also have drainage tubes attached to your breasts for three days. Prescriptions for pain-relieving medication help ease the pain, and antibiotics can prevent infection. You will be provided with instructions to follow during the recovery period until the follow up visit.

How long will it take to recover?

The recovery period varies from one person to another. Generally, if you do not experience complications after the procedure, then you should expect a full recovery in six weeks, but your plastic surgeon will assess your overall health and give you a personalized recovery timeline. Make sure to speak with your surgeon about this before the procedure. At home, eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water is essential for good healing and faster recovery.

How much discomfort occurs during recovery?

It is normal to have some discomfort and disrupted sleep during the first few days or weeks after breast augmentation. Actually, the first three to five days can be quite uncomfortable, and you may need prescription pain medication. After the first week, the discomfort should be minimal, allowing you to slowly ease back into a normal daily routine with light exercise.

While residual discomfort and breast scar incisions may take months to improve, be aware that severe pain, redness and swelling need immediate medical attention. To minimize post-surgical pain and speed up your recovery, avoid strenuous or jarring activity such as running or rigorous workouts. If you have a labor-intensive job, you should remain out of work for at least three weeks.

Follow your surgeon’s instructions

The incision wound will need proper care. During the first week after surgery, all bandages and dressings remain intact, and you will need to follow your surgeon’s instructions on caring for the wounds. At Politis Plastic Surgery, we remove dressings to check your healing progress after one week. At that time, we will show you how to care for the wounds to achieve the best healing and minimal scarring.

As you follow these instructions, make sure to listen to your body, particularly to warning signs. For instance, a manageable amount of pain and nausea tend to occur after breast augmentation, but extreme pain and nausea may be a warning sign of complications. Make sure to always speak with your surgeon whenever something unusual or extreme occurs.

When should you expect to resume normal activities?

Two weeks is the usual amount of time away from work, but that depends on the physical demands of your job. Speak with your surgeon for details on what you can do to speed up your recovery. As a rule, it is best to have your surgeon’s approval before resuming normal activities, especially strenuous exercise, high-impact sports or saunas.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we will customize your breast augmentation procedure to best suit your needs and desired surgical outcomes. Working with Dr. Effie Politis, you can expect natural-looking cosmetic surgery results and a comprehensive guide to recovery.

If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule your consultation session well in advance. The one-on-one session with a plastic surgeon allows you to discuss all of your concerns and become informed about what to expect. For more information about breast augmentation, visit the Politis Plastic Surgery website.

How do you treat a cyst on your jaw?

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

This young lady presented with a 5-year history of a mobile subcutaneous mass along her mid-right mandible.⁣⁣⁣⁣

She opted to have her cyst removed because it was enlarging and more noticeable. She also found good timing given most are wearing masks during the current pandemic.⁣⁣⁣⁣

When evaluating the subcutaneous masses, we do a careful head and neck examination of the patient to rule out a possible cutaneous malignancy. This includes a careful history as well as a lymph node evaluation and intra-oral evaluation. She denied any trauma to this area or any drainage.⁣⁣⁣⁣

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

After careful evaluation, the area is numbed with local anesthesia, and then the cyst removed with sharp dissection followed by a layered closure to ensure a fine, hidden scar.

Sebaceous cysts may develop as a result of trauma or blocked glands in the skin and rarely cause pain or other symptoms. They’re most commonly found on the face, neck, and trunk. ⁣

Many patient prefer the removal of any lesions or cysts on the face to be performed by a plastic surgeon to ensure optimal scar healing and placement along with aesthetic units.⁣

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

This is the defect after the entire cyst including sack and contents are removed.

Important structures in this area are the facial artery and vein and marginal mandibular nerve. ⁣

These structures were abutting the cyst but knowledge of anatomy helps us dissect them away without damaging them. ⁣

The defect was cleaned with betadine and peroxide and saline prior to layered closure for a nice fine scar.⁣⁣

What is Revanesse Versa Used For?

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

This patient was treated with Jeaveau to her upper forehead rhytids, brow lift, crow’s feet, and a midface volumization with 1 vial of Revanesse Versa, 1 cc on each side of her cheeks (deep medial fat pads), using the cannula technique. ⁣

⁣”Revanesse Versa is a hyaluronic acid dermal filler. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is found within the body. It may be produced by bacteria and purified for use as injectable soft tissue filler in order to correct the appearance of facial wrinkles and creases, (nasolabial folds). The product is approved for use in the U.S. by the Food and Drug Administration for the cosmetic treatment of facial wrinkles and creases.” ⁣
⁣Would you like to know more about this procedure and the products used? You can reach out to us by calling (813) 542-2587 or using our online contact form. ⁣

Breast Augmentation: What to Expect

Breast augmentation is cosmetic surgery to increase breast size. The procedure typically involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. It is done on an outpatient basis and rarely requires a hospital stay. While it is commonly performed with the patient under general anesthesia, it can also be done under local anesthesia with the patient awake and the breast area numbed.

What can breast augmentation do for you?

If your breasts are naturally small, breast augmentation is a great way to enhance their size, shape and appearance. The procedure is also effective in correcting uneven or asymmetrical breasts. If you are uncomfortable with one of your breasts being smaller than the other, the surgery can make them even and in turn boost your self-confidence. It is also a good option to help you adjust for a reduction in breast size following pregnancy, weight loss, or breast surgery for other conditions.

What should you expect during the consultation?

The consultation with a plastic surgeon will help you determine whether you really want the procedure. The surgeon will listen to your goals and expectations to make sure you are realistic about what breast augmentation can and cannot help you achieve. The surgeon will also explain what the surgery involves, including the benefits, risks, complications and follow-up care. The surgeon will also discuss your preference for size, shape and feel of your breasts, and guide you on how to prepare for the surgery.

What can you expect during the procedure?

After you are placed under anesthesia, the surgeon will make incisions in the crease under your breast (inframammary), under your arm (axillary), or around your nipple (periareolar). The surgeon then separates the breast tissue from the muscles and connective tissue of the chest to create a pocket either in front or behind the outermost muscle of the chest wall (pectoral muscle).

The breast implant is inserted into this pocket and then centered behind the nipple. While silicone breast implants are usually pre-filled with silicone gel, saline implants are inserted when empty and filled with sterile salt water after they are in place. Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision—usually with sutures (stitches)—before bandaging the surgical site with skin adhesive and surgical tape.

What should you expect after breast augmentation?

Soon after the anesthesia wears off, you can expect pain, soreness, and swelling which may last for a few weeks after surgery. Because your breasts may be sensitive to jarring movements and physical contact, your surgeon will prescribe pain-relieving medication to keep you comfortable, and you will also need to wear a compression garment to provide extra support and positioning of your breasts as they heal.

Should you experience redness and warmth in your breasts, a fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, contact your surgeon as soon as possible. You should also follow your surgeon’s instructions, particularly on returning to regular activities. Avoid strenuous activities—anything that can raise your pulse or blood pressure—for at least two weeks.

Remarkable results

Breast augmentation will change the size and shape of your breasts, improve your body image and boost your self-esteem. At Politis Plastic Surgery, we endeavor to meet each patient’s expectations. You can rest assured that you will achieve your desired breast volume and realize your aesthetic goals.

At the same time, we also understand that weight loss, weight gain, and aging can change the way your breasts look after the procedure. We will keep in touch with you long after the procedure to help you with any issues that may arise. Should you feel dissatisfied with how your breasts look, we are always ready to listen, evaluate and perform corrective surgeries to keep you feeling great about yourself.

Would you like to learn more about the procedure? Call today to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Effie Politis. For more information on breast augmentation, visit the Politis Plastic Surgery website.

What’s a Nefertiti Lift?

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

Platysmal bands treated with toxin prevents jawline and neck aging. Also known as the Nefertiti Lift.⁣⁣⁣

In addition, this patient underwent filler to nasal tip and dorsum for contouring (straighten dorsal aesthetic lines and tip support).⁣⁣⁣

Liquid HA filler rhinoplasty to create supratip break (augment tip projection) and create a straighter nasal dorsum. ⁣⁣⁣

Kybella Patient: A revisit

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

If you remember a few posts ago, we’ve shared with you about our 49-year-old female patient with submental (under chin) excess fat deposit. ⁣

Here she is, before treatment and a month later!⁣

She was treated with 3 vials of Kybella for the unwanted fat under her chin.⁣

Kybella is an injectable that permanently dissolves fat without surgery, incisions, or downtime. It chemically destroys the fat cells permanently. Typically require several treatment sessions but again helps patients avoid downtime associated with surgery. It is a great option for improving the cervical mental angle by destroying the under chin pre-platysmal fat. ⁣⁣

Kybella typically requires 3-6 treatments spaced a month apart. ⁣

What are breast implants?

A breast implant is a medical device (prosthesis) inserted under breast tissue or chest muscle to change the size, contour or shape of the breast. In plastic surgery, breast implants are used to increase breast size, replace breast tissue removed due to trauma or cancer surgery, or to correct severe birth defects and deformities of the breast and the chest wall.

There are three main types of breast implants used in plastic surgery: saline implants, silicone implants and structured implants.

Saline breast implants

Saline breast implants are filled with saline solution. They are placed by means of a less invasive surgery through smaller incisions. During the surgery, empty saline implants are inserted into implant pockets and then filled with saline solution. The incisions made for this insertion are smaller and shorter compared to the relatively longer incisions required to place pre-filled implants.

Saline breast implants offer an increased breast size with a realistic texture and smooth contour. However, they are associated with cosmetic problems such as the wrinkling of breast skin and the implant being more noticeable to the eye and touch, particularly in women with less breast tissue. For women with enough breast tissue, saline implants produce aesthetically better results.

Silicone gel breast implants

The current models of silicone gel breast implants are filled with a high-strength, highly cohesive silicone gel which reduces the likelihood of filler leakage to the body. These form-stable implants can retain their shape even when their shells are broken. They are also less likely to wrinkle and tend to feel a bit more like natural breasts. However, they require slightly longer incisions for placement and they can spread into the breasts, causing lumps. Breasts augmented using silicone gel implants require regular ultrasound or MRI images for assessing the condition of the implants.

Structured breast implants

Structured implants incorporate both saline and silicone gel implant technologies. They use the saline solution as the filler while having the natural feel of silicone. Their internal structure consists of a series of nested shells that support the upper pole and two lumens (cavities) where the filler material is added.

During surgery, a structured implant is inserted while empty and then filled with saline once placed, requiring a smaller incision than a pre-filled implant. And if one of the lumens ruptures after the procedure, it just leaks and empties, leaving the other lumen intact and the implant only partially deflated. This feature allows for ease of removal and replacement.

How are breast implants placed?

When choosing a plastic surgeon for breast implant surgery, finding someone experienced reduces the risk of complications after the procedure. Before the surgery, you will have an appointment with the surgeon for a medical evaluation. Your consultation will allow you to share your goals and expectations with the surgeon, and learn how to prepare for the procedure.

Breast implant surgery is usually carried out under general anesthesia. The plastic surgeon makes a cut in the skin below or next to the breast. The implant is positioned either behind your chest muscle or between your breast tissue and chest muscle. The doctor then closes the incision and covers it with a dressing.

The procedure usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. You may be able to return home the same day, or you may need to remain in the hospital overnight if the operation is scheduled late in the day. You will be given pain medication to help manage the discomfort after the anesthesia wears off. Your breasts will be covered with compression garments, and drainage tubes will be applied in order to drain the surgical area. Expect to need rest for a few days after the surgery and avoid heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks.

Are breast implants safe?

Breast implants are quite safe and rarely cause issues. Though it is possible for the implants to rupture and leak, they rarely cause medical problems. When saline implants rupture, the salt solution is safely absorbed by the body. For silicone gel implants, the gel either remains in the shell or leaks out following a rupture that results in no obvious symptoms.

How are breast implants maintained?

Breast implants are, by design, not intended to last a lifetime. They may have to be replaced if there are complications or if the breasts change in size and shape over time. If you have silicone gel-filled implants, you will need an MRI scan three years after your implant surgery, and then MRI scans every two years to check for silent ruptures. Ruptured implants should be removed or replaced.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we offer breast implant surgery to enhance the natural appearance of your breasts, create fuller curves, and give you a more aesthetically pleasing shape. We understand that your breasts are a defining feature of your body and enhance your femininity, sexuality and beauty. Through breast augmentation, you can change the size and shape of your breasts and, in turn, your self-confidence.

Are you considering breast augmentation?

Schedule a private consultation today with Dr. Effie Politis and have your questions answered and concerns addressed. For more information on breast implants and breast augmentation, visit the Politis Plastic Surgery website.

“Breast in a Day” Surgical Technique

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

Another ‘Breast in a Day’ case, but executed differently since she has much larger ptotic breasts (sagging breasts). ⁣

She basically had a mastectomy performed through a Wise pattern skin mastopexy and I kept the nipples on an inferiorly based adipodermal flap. ⁣

I reduced her mastectomy envelope, reduced and repositioned her nipple areolar complexed, and placed a cohesive Natrelle Inspira SCF 520cc implant in the prepectoral position with anterior Galaflex sheet. ⁣

“Wise pattern or inverted-T mastopexy has traditionally been used in patients with severe excess of skin relative to breast parenchyma (tissues of the breast essential for functioning) in a patient with severe ptosis. Incisions are made around the areola with extensions for the vertical limbs as in a vertical mastopexy.” (Qureshi, Myckatyn, & Tenenbaum, 2018)⁣

“The Wise-pattern incision addresses any redundant mastectomy skin envelope and avoids excessive and unsightly scarring on the “social” aspect of the breast mound.” (Newman, 2016)⁣

“The pattern allows removal of skin in both vertical and horizontal dimensions allowing for lifting and coning of the breast into a less ptotic shape.” (Todd, 2016)⁣

20-Year Old Implant, Capsular Contracture

These implants were placed in the sub-glandular condition, which has a higher incidence of capsular contracture. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ I performed a change of plane and placed him in a partial submuscular position and supported the lower pole with GalaFLEX scaffold (P4HB). ⁣⁣

Breast Revision Case: Before and After

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐞 ⁣⁣

⁣⁣
Before: ⁣⁣
Saline implants, dual-plane⁣⁣
– Breast and nipple-areolar ptosis⁣⁣

After: ⁣⁣
– Removal and replacement of saline implants for Sientra 385cc moderate profile hsc+⁣⁣
– GalaSHAPE 3D ace