If you have been wondering what the breast lift surgery entails in terms of preparation and postoperative restrictions, here is more information on the subject.
Breast lift : preparation and recovery
Before the procedure
As with any other surgical procedure, a preoperative evaluation is necessary, along with a mammography and an ultrasound.
- A consultation with the anesthesiologist is also necessary before the operation.
- It is highly recommended to stop smoking at least a month and a half before surgery and a month after. This will speed up the healing process.
- During 10 days before the procedure, patients have to stop taking medicamtion containing aspirin.
The operation is an hour and a half to three hours long. The patient is under general anesthesia during the procedure and is discharged after one or two days under medical observation.
After the procedure
Postoperative pain is relatively common, but very mild and well tolerated by most patients. Some points regarding the recovery are worth mentionning :
- Bruising and swelling are common as well as discomfort when trying to raise the arms. These will resolve in two to three weeks.
- The nipples can sometimes stay numb during a few months.
- A postoperative consultation is necessary three days after the procedure.
- Wearing a support bra is usually required during the recovery : night and day during a month.
- Patients have to arrange 7 to 10 days off work.
- A break from exercise is also required : one to two months depending on the surgeon’s assessement.
The breast lift’s definitive result can only be seen a year after surgery. Scars have to be monitered regularly during that time.
