General Information

DEFINITION--Implantation of artificial material inside the female breasts to enlarge them or give them a different shape.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Female breasts; underlying muscles.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Restoration of normal breast appearance after a mastectomy.
• Enlargement of the breasts in patients who have less breast tissue than they desire.
• Correction of asymmetry of the breasts.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Smoking.
• Obesity.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital; doctor's office; or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood studies; mammogram (See Glossary).
• After surgery: Blood studies.

ANESTHESIA--General anesthesia by injection or inhalation; local anesthesia by injection.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• Incisions may be made under the breast, through the nipple or in the armpit.
• The breast tissue is brought forward by raising muscles from below the breast or the muscles next to the chest wall.
• A pocket is created, and the implant (a mammary prosthesis filled with saline) is inserted. The procedures are usually repeated on the other breast.
• The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery. A light bandage is applied.
• A bra or elastic bandage is fitted to give support and to reduce possible bleeding.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Formation of a thickened band of tissue from bleeding around the breast. This will make the breast more firm to the touch than usual.
• Implant may become dislodged or rupture (rare).

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery. The implants do not interfere with future detection of any abnormal lumps in the breast.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Hard ridges may form along the incision. The ridges will heal and recede gradually without treatment.
• Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incisions gently with mild unscented soap.
• Use ice packs to reduce swelling and to relieve incisional pain.

> You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Resume daily activities and work as soon as possible.
• Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery.
• Resume driving 1 week after returning home.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

> Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.