Before Breast Surgery

Initial consultation

At the initial visit, your doctor will likely ask you to describe in detail what you would like improved. Be specific about what you would like done. If your surgeon fully understands your expectations, he'll be able to determine whether your goals are realistic. Your surgeon will examine your breasts. He will talk to you about the size you want your breasts to be and other considerations involved with breast augmentation.

Discuss with your surgeon:

* Implant shape: round or teardrop
* Implant surface: smooth or textured
* Implant size and volume: cup size/210 ml-500 ml
* Implant placement: above or below the muscle
* Incision site: armpit, areola, breast or belly button

See Procedures/Techniques for detailed comparisons of these options.

You are at increased risk for complications if you have diabetes, poor circulation, heart, lung or liver disease, smoke, have a family history of blood clots, take certain medications, etc. You'll want to discuss your medical history thoroughly with your physician before you choose to undergo surgery.

pre-op preparation

Before Surgery:
[ ] Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications (your doctor can provide you with a list of OTC medications to avoid)
[ ] If you smoke, quit smoking for at least 2 weeks pre-op (and anticipate no smoking for the recovery, smoking greatly increases your risk of complications)
[ ] Obtain a copy of your doctor's protocol
[ ] Make arrangements to have someone drive you to and from the operation
[ ] Arrange for someone to care for you the first 24-72 hours after surgery
[ ] Fill prescriptions (especially pain medications and antibiotics) before surgery
[ ] Consider a pill case with time chart for taking medications
[ ] Set up home recovery area: lots of pillows, books, magazines, journal, stationery, T.V., remote control, videos, favorite CDs
[ ] Black out windows so you can rest during the day
[ ] Whistle, bell, walkie-talkies or intercom system for requesting help
[ ] Prepare and freeze meals for 2 weeks
Consider quick snacks: Protein shakes, soup, applesauce, jell-O, frozen dinners, yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, juice (purchase flexible straws for easier drinking)
Be sure to have adequate protein - the body needs it for proper healing
Talk to your doctor about low-sodium foods to reduce swelling
[ ] Prepare Icepacks (can also use packs of frozen veggies or fruit, gel packs, etc/) to reduce post-op swelling
[ ] Moisturizers, scar reducing creams and petroleum jelly for incisions
[ ] Laxatives (pain medications are often binding)
[ ] Eye Drops (after any surgery, eyes can be dry)
[ ] Consider hand-held shower head and bathroom chair
[ ] Telephone with speaker phone near your bed (turn off the ringer so it doesn't disturb you while you sleep; have answering machine in another room)
[ ] On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing which will be easy to get off and on after operation (a shirt that buttons in front)
[ ] Obtain a copy of the manufacturer's package insert for the breast implant you will receive. It contains information about precautions to be taken and risks associated with your particular implant. Keep it for future reference.
[ ] Obtain a copy of the manufacturer's device sticker. It identifies the brand of the implant you will receive, its size, and the manufacturer's lot number. This data should be part of your personal medical record. It will be useful if you should have problems following surgery or seek care from another health care provider.
[ ] Follow your physician's directions carefully regarding medications, eating & drinking, etc.

Your doctor knows your particular case best, these are only general guidelines.

Breastfeeding
It is possible to nurse with breast implants as long as the milk ducts haven't been severed or blocked. You should discuss future breastfeeding with your surgeon so that they are careful not to damage the milk ducts. The recent report of the Institute of Medicine concluded that breast feeding with implants is safe.

Insurance Coverage
Insurance will not generally cover breast augmentation unless you have a mastectomy. If you are having silicone replaced due to adverse reactions, check with your insurance company. Questions to ask your insurance:

* Does my policy cover the costs of the implant surgery, the implant, the anesthesia, and other related hospital costs?
* Does it cover removal and/or replacement of the implants if this becomes necessary?
* Does it cover the cost of detecting or treating a complication as a result of either the implant or the reconstruction?
* Will there be an increase in my insurance premium?
* Will future coverage be affected?