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Cosmetic breast surgery

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Alternative Names:

Mastopexy; Mammoplasty; Breast size reduction; Breast lift; Breast lift with reduction; Breast lift with augmentation

Expectations after surgery:

The likely outcome from reduction surgery is very good. The appearance and lifestyle activities are significantly enhanced. Also, the pain or skin symptoms (such as striation) disappear. A special supporting bra may be required for a few months to reshape the breasts.

After a breast lift, a bulky gauze dressing is wrapped around the breasts and chest following surgery, or a surgical bra may be used. Pain is controlled by medication and will subside in 2 to 4 days. An overnight stay for breast reduction usually is needed to control pain and nausea. The dressing will be replaced by a soft bra within the first week, which must be worn for several weeks.

Generally within a few days the swelling and discoloration around the incisions will subside. There may be temporary loss of sensation in the breast skin and nipples after surgery. This condition will improve with time. Within 2 weeks of surgery, sutures will be removed.

Convalescence:

During convalescence, limit physical activities in order to prevent stretching of the scars. Some activity may be allowed in a day or two following surgery. The plastic surgeon will recommend a schedule for resuming your usual routine (usually about 8 weeks). To permit proper healing, avoid overhead lifting for 3 to 4 weeks.

Scars are permanent and often remain highly visible for a year following surgery, then fade to some degree. Every effort is made to place the incisions so that scars are as inconspicuous as possible, and the scars should not be noticeable even in low-cut clothing (incisions are usually made on the underside of the breast).

• Review Date: 12/2/2005
• Reviewed By: Thomas T. Jeneby, M.D., The Plastic and Cosmetic Center of South Texas, San Antonio, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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