How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Breast Implant?
The recovery time from breast implant varies from patient to patient. It depends on the size and positioning of the implants. Larger implants naturally require more dissection and stretching of the tissues which would require more time to heal. In general, the recovery from breast implant surgery takes about 4 to 6 weeks. Patients are instructed not to lift heavy things for first three weeks in order to prevent bleeding or tearing. Slowly the patients can go into their normal lifestyle.
How to Take Care After Breast Implant Surgery?
Proper after care is required once the surgery is done. The following points should be remembered after the breast surgery is done-
Monitoring: The recovery after the breast surgery is monitored. The implants do done will be wrapped in gauze or surgical bra.
Pain: Following the operation, the patient may expect some pain, swelling and tenderness. Such effects may last for a month or so, but should heal with time.
Scars: It is normal to have scars after the breast surgery like any other surgery. For most women scars fade away over time into thin lines.
Medicines: Medication may be prescribed for pain and nausea. In case of bleeding or redness of breast and other symptoms it should be immediately reported immediately to the doctor.
Compression Bandage: The patient may need a postoperative bra or compression bandage for extra support during the healing process.
Recovery: The patient may be able to return to work within two weeks or so. Nevertheless, any form of strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two weeks.
Regular Checkups: The scheduled follow-up visits for checkup should not be missed to ensure speedy recovery.
Tests: Proper recommended tests like MRI or mammograms should be done without fail. The tests so done are aimed at monitoring the progress of the healing procedure. In case of implant rupture or any other form of defect, the tests will help in the confirmation.
What is the Criteria For Breast Implant Surgery?
Women can go for breast implants in case-
- Women require breast enlargement.
- Women who have been unhappy about the size and shape of their breasts.
- Women who have lost the shape and volume of the breasts due to age or childbirth.
- It must be remembered that women planning to go for breast implants should be in good health. She should not be pregnant or nursing.
What are the Risks of Breast Implant Surgery?
If a patient thinks about going for breast implant, it is important to understand the risks associated with such implants. One has to keep in mind that the risks following breast implants:
Sagging: Breast implants do not prevent them from sagging. In order to correct sagging breasts a breast lift surgery may be required in addition to breast augmentation.
Lifetime: Breast implants do not last for a lifetime. The implants may rupture and thus, there is a need to have the implants removed or go for re-surgery after 8 to 10 years.
Breastfeeding: Breast implants may hamper breast feeding and thus, the implants cannot be placed if a woman is currently nursing.
Insurance: Breast implants are not covered by insurance if it is not a medical necessity. Medical necessity may be needed in case a patient has to undergo reconstruction after mastectomy for breast cancer. Thus, the patient has to handle all the expenditure in case of breast augmentation along with the related surgeries and future tests.
Additional Surgeries: Additional surgery may be needed after the breast implant removal. The patient will have to undergo a breast lift surgery or other additional surgery in order to help the breasts to maintain an aesthetic appearance.
