Recovery From a Second Breast Augmentation
Once a woman has made the decision to have one breast augmentation surgery, a second surgery likely will follow. In some cases, some women desire a larger bust than the first surgery provided. This second surgery, however, is often necessary for all women who have had their breasts surgically augmented because implants have a life of only about 10 years. Once you have been through the first augmentation surgery, you will know what to expect. But paying attention to recovery continues to be just as important the second time around.
Facts
According to Dr. John P. Di Saia, an Orange County plastic surgeon, breast augmentation tends to hurt less the second time around unless you are switching implant places-going from under the muscle to over. However, if the implant pocket needs to be enlarged the recovery time will be just as long and uncomfortable.
Proper Pre-Surgery Preparation Reduces Recovery Time
Always perform thorough research before selecting your plastic surgeon for the second breast augmentation, if you are using a different doctor. Choose a surgeon who specializes in breast implants and has excellent credentials. When you are considering a doctor, ask if you can speak with former patients as well as view before and after photographs. Make sure that the doctor you are considering does not have any complaints filed against him by checking with the medical board. Once you have selected your surgeon, listen to him. You will receive pre-operative instructions such as to avoid certain medications and quit smoking. Following pre-operative instructions will reduce the risk of complications and reduce recovery time.
Post-Operative Procedure
After you come out of anesthesia, you will wait in a recovery room for about two hours until you are released to go home. You will likely be sore and disoriented for the rest of the day. Make sure you have reliable transportation home as you will not be able to drive for four to six days. Make sure you have someone to stay with you for the first 48 hours after surgery in case complications arise. For the second augmentation, you will have instructions from your surgeon to put cold compresses on your breasts for the first 48 hours. During this time, keep a warm blanket handy as the combination of the cold compresses and medications may make you feel cold. After the first 48 hours you should switch to a warm compress until the swelling goes down and the bruising fades.
General Guidelines
The anesthesia causes nausea so consume only bland foods and carbonated beverages to prevent vomiting. Avoid alcohol because it can interfere with the medications you are on as well as increase post-operative bleeding. Abstain from smoking because it will reduce your body's ability to receive oxygen. Sleep on your back for the first week. Avoid exerting yourself for the first two weeks. Wear your post-operative bra for the first four weeks. Take care of your sutures until they dissolve.
Tags: first hours, Make sure, augmentation surgery, breast augmentation, cold compresses, From Second