The process of healing after a breast reconstruction cosmetic surgery procedure will include both physical and emotional aspects.
The recovery time will vary according to the technique used to perform the procedure. The flap technique requires more recovery time relative to the implant technique as the process of healing takes place in two different locations.
Generally speaking, patients can heal completely in approximately six weeks after the breast reconstruction surgery. The process of recovery can be longer if the patient chooses multiple procedures like nipple reconstruction, or if there are complications. Profound, dignified, and board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify provides breast reconstruction to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding communities.
Right after the Surgery
After the surgery, a patient undergoing breast reconstruction may experience some pain and fatigue. Patients may stay at the hospital for a day or two so that they can receive professional care and medical help.
The surgeon will probably use drain tubes in the surgical area to remove surplus fluid. These drains along with sutures can stay in place for up to two weeks. Common symptoms after the breast reconstruction plastic surgery procedure include:
- Inflammation
- Soreness in the breast area
- Numbness or loss of feeling in the breasts
- Scarring
The surgeon may provide prescription medications to help the patient achieve pain relief.
Care Instructions for recovery will include:
- Cleansing wounds properly
- Changing bandages regularly
- Massaging the scars and skin after healing
- Wearing sports bra or a firm bra with no underwire
- No smoking and avoiding certain medications as per the surgeon’s advice
Scarring
The surgical technique used determines the scarring. In flap reconstruction technique, the patient can experience scars in one or many locations such as abdomen, nipple, breast, buttocks, navel, back or any location from where tissue has been taken to develop the breast mound.
In the flap reconstruction, there is more scarring due to the presence of two incision areas. Implant reconstruction technique produces less scarring. While surgical scars minimize in appearance over time, they do not go away entirely.
Return to Routine
Every patient experiences a different journey to recovery, and it is vital that patients return to their normal regimen as per their pace. Patients should consult their plastic surgeon to understand which chores they can resume at what time (such as exercise, shopping, housework, swimming, or driving.) Patients who have undergone surgery using the flap technique may experience an extended downtime as the method can cause weakness in the abdomen or arm muscles.
Recovering Emotionally
It may be some time before a woman feels comfortable with her newly reconstructed breasts. Reconstructed breasts can definitely enhance a woman’s appearance but can never replicate the appearance and feel of natural breasts. Patients often find value in speaking to other women who have undergone breast reconstruction or a medical counselor.
Accomplished and terrific cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other communities and towns in California for breast reconstruction surgery and various other procedures.
Committed and remarkable cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other towns and suburbs in The Golden State for breast reconstruction surgery.
See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.