Breast Lift Surgery: Questions and Answers with Your Surgeon
If you are considering a breast lift procedure there are questions that you should ask your surgeon before the procedure. These questions will not only help you to make an informed decision about the procedure, but help ease some of the anxiety associated with such a major medical decision. For more information about breast lift surgery, read Things You Might Not Know About Breast Mastopexy (Breast Lift Surgery).
Here are the top 5 questions to ask your surgeon before your breast lift surgery.
How experienced are you in breast lift surgery?
By asking this, you gain a deeper understanding about your surgeon’s qualifications and experience when it comes to breast lift procedures. You want to know that your surgeon has practical experience with the procedure, not just theoretical knowledge.
You may also want to delve deeper into their experience by asking about how many breast lifts they have performed, in the past month or year. All of these questions will help you understand how experienced your surgeon is.
What procedure will you use for my breast lift?
This question will give you information about the technique that your plastic surgeon is likely to use. The method will depend on a range of factors, including your medical history, weight, age, breast size, and body shape.
For more information on the techniques used during a breast lift, read Techniques Your Plastic Surgeon May Use for Your Breast Lift. If your medical history and physical condition are fine, and if your surgeon feels comfortable with it, they might give you the option of selecting which lift method you would prefer.
Am I able to breastfeed following my procedure?
Typically, it is advised that you finish breastfeeding before undergoing a breast lift. This is due to the fact that a breast lift affects the breast tissue itself. Although you should still be able to breastfeed, there remains a chance that your ability to do so may be compromised by the procedure. For more information about breastfeeding after a breast lift, read Will I Be Able to Breastfeed After Breast Lift Surgery?.
Are there any precautions I need to take prior to surgery?
Before your surgery, your plastic surgeon will likely advise you to follow these instructions:
- Halt any medication that might interact with the anaesthesia
- Avoid taking any medications that thin your blood (such as aspirin or other painkillers)
- If you are a smoker, you will need to quit smoking 6 weeks prior to your surgery as smoking can have a negative effect on your recovery process.
- Immediately prior to your surgery, your surgeon will ‘mark’ your body while in a standing position to assess the new position of your breasts and nipples. Your breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic.
How much time will I need for my recovery?
On average, it can take between 2 to 12 months to fully recover from your breast lift surgery. However, the first week is the most vital time of your recovery. You will likely experience some mild to moderate pain or discomfort, swelling, and bruising during the days immediately following your breast lift surgery. You may have very limited mobility in your arms and reaching and lifting will be compromised (and not recommended). Usually on about day three, you will return to your plastic surgeon’s office for a post-operative assessment. Your drainage tubes may be removed at this time. It is ideal to avoid showering for the first few days after breast mastopexy. Follow all of your surgeon’s recommendations and take any medications prescribed to ensure that you have a full and complete recovery. For more information regarding recovering from a breast mastopexy, please read A Guide to Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery.
Professional Results with the Top Edmonton Plastic Surgeon
By asking the right questions, you can learn more about your breast lift procedure and feel more comfortable that you have made the right decision. If you are interested in a breast lift, then speak with a board certified plastic surgeon about your questions and concerns. For those looking to achieve the breast look and shape they want, book your complimentary consultation with Dr. Ladak today.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified and top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta, and is highly skilled in cosmetic plastic surgery and other non-surgical rejuvenating cosmetic procedures. Dr. Ladak is a fully qualified Fellow of the Royal Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons and his team is committed to providing patients with the facts and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at (780) 407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take for a breast lift to settle?
A: Typically, you will need to arrange to be off work for, at minimum, one to 2 weeks, depending on your plastic surgeon’s recommendations. After 3 weeks, your plastic surgeon will typically remove most postoperative restrictions. Moving beyond the initial six weeks, you will be pleased with the look and feel of your breasts. Your incisions will be healed and fading, with any bruising having been resolved. The majority of women are pleased with the results of their breast lift months after, but some women will still have slight swelling and the final results may not be apparent until six months or a year have passed.
Q: How painful is breast lift recovery?
A: The vast majority of women report that for 2 to 3 days following their procedure, they experienced mild to moderate pain. However, the pain should begin to ease after that period and your surgeon can prescribe you pain medications to help you better manage your pain.
Q: What are the restrictions following a breast lift?
A: For 2 to 3 weeks following your procedure, it is advised that you avoid any strenuous activity and refrain from any heavy lifting. Depending on your recovery, you may be able to return to work – provided it does not demand physical exertion – within a week or two.
