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In this article we look at the pros and cons of dermal fillers, which are the factors worth considering before choosing to have them?

Dermal fillers reduce the appearance of fine facial lines and wrinkles to help look and feel more youthful and personable in both social and professional settings. By replenishing hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring component of our skin that diminishes over time due to sun exposure, environmental toxins, and the elements, dermal fillers not only make us look better but improve the health and quality of our skin.

 

Disadvantages of Dermal Fillers

 

1. The cost of dermal fillers can be high

 

Up first on the list is the price of dermal fillers. Though they do a great job at helping us look more youthful and attractive, they do come at a price, which can be prohibitively high for some patients.

 

2. Side effects such as bruising, bleeding, and swelling

 

Most dermal fillers use naturally-occurring components. They are fully biocompatible and produce no known long-term adverse effects. However, in the short term, dermal fillers can cause bleeding, bruising, and swelling at injection sites. To minimise these, we can suggest several preventatives and remedies, including ceasing certain medications and indirectly applying ice packs to the treatment area. On the whole, most patients find these effects very bearable, short-lived, and self-resolving.

 

3. Dermal fillers are not permanent

 

Most dermal fillers last between 6 and 18 months, with an excellent average lifespan being around 12 months. That is a long time to enjoy improvements to one’s complexion and appearance, but it isn’t permanent. To most patients, this is understandable as little else in life, particularly in diet, physique, and beauty, is permanent but requires constant attention.

 

4. Other Rare but Possible Cons to be Aware Of

 

The last disadvantages to dermal fillers are certainly worth mentioning but are extremely rare. A tiny percentage of patients may metabolise fillers much faster than others. Others may experience additional infrequent side effects, including rashes, the development of lumps under the skin, or the erroneous injection of filler into a blood vessel. Again, these are extremely rare if a qualified and experienced injector does dermal fillers.

 

Advantages of Dermal Fillers

 

1. Dermal fillers can you help you look younger and more rested

 

By smoothing out the lines and wrinkles and filling out the lips and cheeks, dermal fillers can help you look naturally more youthful and attractive per your definition of beauty.

 

2. Dermal fillers are impermanent

 

Something that fits into both the pros and cons of dermal fillers is that they don’t last forever. If you dislike your results or later wish to look different, dermal fillers’ effects can be reversed with another simple injection. Their impermanence also means you can adjust your results to perfection.

 

3. Pain is Minimal

 

Dermal fillers are injected into the dermis with thin surgical-grade needles. Pain is minimal, and the procedure can be made more comfortable using a topical anaesthetic applied before the dermal fillers are used. Many dermal fillers also have an anaesthetic in them.

 

4. Dermal fillers can help restore healthy collagen

 

As mentioned at the outset, our body’s natural reserves of hyaluronic acid (and its ability to replenish it) diminishes over time. Dermal fillers can stimulate further growth of additional healthy collagen, giving our skin a more youthful and healthy look.

 

5. Little to no recovery downtime is required

 

Dermal fillers are a non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment. Unlike other facial procedures, they require no downtime, and you can return to work and your social activities almost immediately.

 

6. Side effects are mild

 

The only side effects they will experience from dermal fillers are localised bruising, possible bleeding, and slight swelling for a vast majority of patients.

 

7. Dermal fillers can help us look young and beautiful

 

Carefully injected dermal fillers can make a face appear many years more youthful. They can plump up thinning lips, enhance and fill in shallow or worn areas of the face, decrease or remove wrinkles under our eyes, and reduce static wrinkles’ appearance. With a refreshed look and feel, dermal fillers give a boost to confidence and dopamine levels.

 

Anti-wrinkle injections are a quick and simple, non-surgical solution to facial wrinkles and fine lines. The injections weaken facial muscles causing them to relax, resulting in a smoother, fresher appearance. They are most commonly used to give a fresher appearance to the crows feet, forehead and frown, but can also improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to the lower face, e.g. smokers lines, neck bands and around the mouth.

 

The answer to the question of how long they last depends on a variety of things outlined below.

 

These treatments work their magic by targeting the muscles responsible for creating wrinkles and fine lines. They temporarily block nerve signals to these muscles, causing them to relax and smoothen out the skin’s surface.

However, this relaxation isn’t permanent due to the dynamic nature of our facial muscles and the natural breakdown of the injected substance over time.

Anti-wrinkle does gradually wear off as the body processes the toxin through its natural lymphatic system, and therefore the efficacy of the anti-wrinkle product gradually depletes.

 

That means top-up treatments are necessary.

So naturally you’ll want to know, how often will you need treatments?

 

It’s great to know that anti-wrinkle, comparatively speaking, is a long-lasting treatment. Patients typically savour the outcomes for a span of 3–6 months, a testament to the quality and efficacy of this injectable.

It’s important to bear in mind that individual experiences may vary, and this can also vary according to age, metabolism and the area being treated.

Some zones of the face are more active than others, and therefore the muscle being relaxed is more active and requires more units of anti-wrinkle, with more frequent refreshes.

This window considers individual variations in metabolism, the specific product used, and the treatment area.

Areas with more robust muscle activity, like the forehead, might see effects wear off sooner than areas with less muscle movement, like the cheeks.

Moreover, the temporary nature of these treatments is often seen as an advantage, as it allows clients to adjust and fine-tune their appearance as desired over time. Regular touch-ups within this timeframe can help maintain the desired look while adapting to any changes in skin and muscle behaviour.

 

Monitoring Symmetry after Anti-Wrinkle Injections

 

When is it best to review symmetry if you feel like you have some asymmetry after anti-wrinkle injections? This question is very easy to answer using science.

After a muscle relaxant is injected, typically the results start to show at 2-8 days, they then continue to increase up to 4 weeks after the treatment was performed. The results are then stable until approximately 8-10 weeks, and then movement starts again. At 12 weeks, movement is about 50% back to normal and at 16 weeks, movement is about 80% back to normal.

Before the 4 week (maximal effect) mark, there may be one side or area that kicks in earlier or stronger than the other. Reviewing the results in terms of symmetry, before the drug has reached its maximal effect, is not very useful. The drug needs to reach its maximal effect so that the symmetry can then be assessed and potentially treated. Treating asymmetry before 4 weeks after injections is not advised as the maximal effect hasn’t been reached, so injecting more product may lead to an increase in side effects like brow or lid droop. Patients can be very impatient, but practitioners need to be guided by the science.

 

Maintaining Your Anti-Wrinkle Injection Results

 

For a successful anti-wrinkle injection, the product should stay in the same position as where it was injected. For example if you have anti-wrinkle injections for forehead lines, the product should stay in the forehead area.

There are some general aftercare guidelines that are worth adhering to post treatment, to maximise the results and longevity of your anti-wrinkle injections and decrease the risk of the anti-wrinkle product moving south and causing drooping brows/eyelids or ending in a poor cosmetic result.

Here is what you should avoid:

• Rubbing or massaging treated areas for 5 days. Gentle cleansing is fine,
• Excessive alcohol consumption 24 hours before and after treatment,
• Strenuous activity or intensive exercise for 24 hours after treatment,
• Lying flat within 4 hours post treatment,
• Bending forwards or downwards for an extended time, such as in yoga or Pilates movements,
• Facial treatments including laser, peels, needling and waxing for one week post treatment.

 

  More Information about Anti-Wrinkle Injections

In 2024 we’re noticing a change in individual goals. We’re seeing a shift towards anti-ageing treatments on a natural scale.

Beautiful skin is the key.

Our patients are wanting a youthful, volumized appearance whilst still looking like themselves.

We’re seeing a very heavy focus on collagen stimulating treatments and individuals

starting to think about managing the ageing process from a younger age.

It’s All About Collagen

Collagen is a key structural element within the skin that is responsible for strength, structure and firmness of the skin. With the ageing process, the skin loses collagen sources which causes sagging, loss of elasticity and an increase in visible lines and wrinkles. Bioremodellers and biostimulators and energy based devices have been found to increase collagen production within the skin. Our aim is naturally lifted and hydrated skin.

More Information on BioRemodeller

Biostimulators

Biostimulators work to produce natural volume to the skin, resulting in a more plump and youthful appearance to the skin. It’s a popular treatment for those who don’t want filler.

Biostimulators are ideal for those wanting natural skin tightening and to address volume loss.

It works by targeting collagen and elastin production and supporting facial structures. It achieves a more lifted appearance and tighter skin quality. Optimal results are achieved by completing 2-3 sessions every 6-8 weeks. Results last up to two years, however we recommend yearly maintenance.

 

At Home Collagen Stimulation

We recommend the power product, C-E Ferulic for maximal Collagen stimulation at home.

SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic is a high potency serum with a combination of powerful antioxidants to protect skin against atmospheric ageing. 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (alpha tocopherol), and 0.5% ferulic acid work in combination to protect against environmental damage and premature signs of ageing caused by free radical damage from UV rays, infrared radiation (IRA), and ozone pollution (O3).

In addition to the benefits of these powerful antioxidants, C E Ferulic can help fight the signs of ageing by improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and skin laxity that comes with age, while brightening complexion for more radiant looking skin.

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Tear drop breast implants are known for their precision design for the most natural look. In this article we will explore the intricacies of tear drop breast implants, including their unique characteristics, the surgical process, and the benefits they offer to women seeking a natural looking enhancement.

What Are Tear Drop Breast Implants

Anatomical or “tear-drop” shaped implants are breast prostheses (artificial objects added to the body) which are shaped to mimic the form of a breast. They are slim at the top and widen towards the bottom to mimic a breast-like shape. They are also referred to as “contour profile” breast implants or “shaped” breast implants.

The Surgical Process for Breast Implants

Choosing the right implant type is a decision that should not be taken lightly. The best way to make an informed decision is to consult an experienced plastic surgeon with a track record of successful breast implant surgery. During your initial consultation, a plastic surgeon will examine your natural breast anatomy, discuss your goals, and educate you on the benefits and risks of each implant type.

The process for breast augmentation with tear drop breast implants involves a detailed consultation between the patient and the surgeon to ensure that the desired size, shape, and projection align with the patients expectations.

Another crucial decision is the type of incision you want and where to place your implants. There are several techniques to choose from, including inframammary, peri-areolar, transaxillary, and transumbilical. The most common approach is the inframammary incision, which goes into the breast crease. There are two options for implant placement: over or under the muscle.

The surgical procedure itself is performed under general anaesthesia, with the surgeon making a discreet incision to create a ‘pocket’ for the implant. Unlike traditional round implants, tear drop implants require precise positioning to achieve the desired natural look that they’re known for. Surgeons sculpt this breast pocket to accommodate the specific shape of the tear drop implants.

The Benefits of Tear Drop Breast Implants

1. Natural Contour and Shape

One of the most important benefits of teardrop breast implants is their more natural-looking shape. Unlike round implants, which can give an overly rounded appearance to the breast, teardrop implants provide a more natural-looking slope. The teardrop shape of these implants mimics the natural breast shape better, especially for women with a smaller amount of breast tissue. The result is a more subtle and natural-looking breast augmentation in harmony with the rest of the body.

2. Reduced Risk of Rippling

Teardrop implants have a lower risk of palpability or rippling post-surgery. This is because teardrop implants have an anatomical shape that is fuller towards the bottom and tapered towards the top. The fuller bottom portion reduces the chance of rippling while giving a more natural appearance to the breast. Although round implants are a great option, they have a higher chance of palpability or rippling, making teardrop implants ideal for certain situations.

3. Longevity

Tear drop breast implants are known for their longevity. The cohesive gel filling retains its shape over time, and the teardrop design resists the gravitational forces that can lead to sagging.Tear drop implants avoid the slipping down of the breast tissue down the chest wall. This durability means that the more natural shape from tear drop implants minimises the need for frequent revisions.

Considerations for Tear Drop Breast Implants

While tear drop breast implants offer advantages, there are a couple of factors to consider:

1. Current Body and Breast Condition

Tear drop implants may not be suitable for those with pre-existing asymmetry or significant sagging. When considering teardrop implants, women should be aware that they are designed to mimic the natural shape of breasts with a wider and fuller bottom to a narrow and less projecting top. This design suits women with larger breasts who want a more natural look. However, the implant can sometimes appear unnatural and bulky for women with a petite frame, leading to complications like visible rippling or discomfort.

2. Post-Surgery Monitoring

Post-surgery, patients must monitor for any changes in the appearance or feel of the implants. While tear drop implants are designed for stability, occasional check-ups with the surgeon are essential to ensure the continued success of the augmentation.

The right breast implant choice is a personal matter that requires careful consideration and consultation with an experienced surgeon. Teardrop breast implants offer a natural look that can be highly customisable and provide a great option for those looking to enhance their breast shape. Nonetheless, it is important to understand the risks associated with all types of breast implants and to select a surgeon with impeccable credentials to help you achieve the desired outcome. By exploring your options and following postoperative instructions, you can feel confident in your decision and enjoy the benefits of your new look. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment!

“What size breast implants should I get? – Finding Your Ideal Breast Size.

For many women, the decision to get a breast augmentation is a process that requires several different factors before reaching the final decision.

One such factor that is often quite difficult is choosing the right size for the implant — We know that breast size affects many aspects of a woman’s life, including her relationships, social interactions and overall physical well-being. The wrong size has the potential to throw your silhouette’s natural balance off entirely. In other words, proportion is key.

We want to make sure that patients of Mode Plastic Surgery have the resources and guidance to choose the perfect implant size!

Deciding to move forward with breast augmentation surgery is just the first step. When you meet with the surgeon, there are many other decisions you will need to make about the specific type of surgery, implant size calculation, and more.

Dr. Aggarwal has many years of experience and helps each patient create a personalised surgical plan to ensure optimal results for every surgery.

During your consultation, you have the opportunity to feel, see, and try on different sizes of breast implants. This breast augmentation with implant sizing consultation is designed to help you make your decision and communicate your expectations with the surgeon.

What factors help determine what size implants you should get?

Not all breast implants are the same. These enhancements are available in a range of sizes and styles, so every body type can be accommodated with a personalised approach to treatment

Here are some of the most important factors to consider and discuss with your surgeon before settling on what implant size to choose for your breast augmentation:

1. Breast Implant Volume

Surgeons measure implant sizing by cubic centimetres (CCs) instead of cup sizes. What a particular volume achieves for a patient varies from individual to individual, and one size certainly does not fit all.

• In general one cup size is increase is considered to be around 150cc but this is highly variable between individuals. If you are smaller framed and with a smaller starting breast size, a volume of 150-200cc may produce a substantial increase in size, while this may not be the case if you are larger framed, or have a larger starting breast size.
• The larger the implant, the more it will stretch the native breast tissue and skin, and more likely it is that it can descend or move out of position over time. Dr Aggarwal will also advise you during consultation what would ideally suit your chest shape and size, as it is important to respect the natural landmarks of the breast.
• During consultation Dr Aggarwal will measure the ‘footprint’ of your breast – this means the width of each breast as well as certain measurements of the skin surface. There is an ideal width of breast implant for each patient based on these measurements, and Dr Aggarwal will guide you with respect to implant size selection based on these measurements.

2. Implant Profile

The profile of breast implants is the measurement in which the breast sticks out from the flat part of your chest. You can choose from different profiles depending on how “perky” you want them to be: v low (Mini), low (demi) , moderate (full) or high (corse).

Mini Profile: Implants with a low profile have a flatter appearance and minimal projection. They are a good fit for patients who have wider chests or those who want a subtle increase in size. Sometimes this has been referred to as a ‘mini’ breast augmentation.

Demi Profile: This sticks out a little more than the mini profile. This sizing can still create a very natural appearance and is often the most common requested profile for breast augmentation

Full Profile: If you want significant projection, then full profile implants are the ideal solution. This type of profile creates breasts that are prominent with a much more pronounced increase in breast size and shape.

Corse Profile: This implant has the maximum projection and fullness of the upper pole. They have the narrowest base and these are great for petite women with a narrow chest and little breast tissue as this type of implant can help patients go up multiple cup sizes for a natural, yet dramatic look.

3. Implant Diameter

The diameter measurement is the width of the base of the implant, which affects the breast outline and shape. Body type is a big consideration when choosing the ideal diameter because you need to get the correct width to create a breast that looks natural.

This will largely be guided by Dr Aggarwal after he takes clinical measurements, and will select implants that are narrower than the existing diameter of the breast so that the new implant is ‘hidden’ or ‘camouflaged’ under the existing breast platform. A diameter that is larger than the existing breast footprint will lead to the implant being visible, or looking artificial.

4. Lifestyle factors

For active women, athletes, or women with more physically demanding jobs, larger breast implants may not be ideal. It’s simple: the larger the breasts, the more tiresome and potentially painful it will be to carry the extra weight while working, running, lifting weights or playing a sport. It’s also important for you to think about what kinds of clothing you normally like to wear, and if those items will be compatible with larger breast implant sizes.

Augmentation will certainly affect how shirts, bras, swimsuit tops, and dresses fit, and additional procedures like lifts or reconstructions will affect things even further.

Breast Implants are not lifetime devices – most implants last between 10 – 20 years. It is recommended that they are checked regularly (yearly) especially after the 10 year mark – often a deterioration is detected on imaging, and if this is detected then it would be recommended to have the implants replaced.

While it’s easy to see how the breast implants will fit your current lifestyle and preferences, also remember that you will be wearing these same implants for many years. Do you think your implants will match your lifestyle in 5 or 10 years? Think about how your lifestyle might be changing between now and then.

If you are considering breast augmentation, but have many questions you would like to have answered in person by a qualified specialist plastic surgeon, don’t wait any longer. Get in touch with the team at Mode Plastic Surgery and schedule a consultation with Dr. Aggarwal..

FAQs: Clarifying Concerns About Breast Size

The thought of having to pick your ideal breast size can be overwhelming. After all, once they’re in, they’re here to stay. But rest assured, you’ll have support every step of the way. Dr. Aggarwal and his team are here to guide you, offering expert insights so you can move forward with confidence.

With that, here are some answers to our patients’ frequently asked questions about breast size and body proportions:

What is the ideal female breast size?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, one study suggests a 45:55 ratio is ideal. Meaning? 45% of the breast lies above the nipple, and the remaining 55% lies below.

Can your implants be too big?

Yes. Implants can be too big—not just aesthetically but medically. If your implants are too big, you can experience:

• Overstretched skin
• Stretch marks
• Breast sagging
• Implant displacement
• Nipple numbness
• Pain and discomfort
• Implant complications
• Capsular contracture
• How do I choose my breast implant size and shape?
• When picking implant shape and size, you’ll consider several factors like your body dimensions, preferences, and lifestyle.

Our advice?

• Do your research, experiment with different sizers, and lean into your surgeon’s expertise.
• Do breast implants look bigger over or under the muscle?
• Breast implant placement has no impact on the actual size of your implants. It’s the visual effect and contour that varies. Your surgeon will help you determine which placement suits your needs and desired look.

 

Mode Plastic Surgery have a consultation room to rent.

Welcome to our modern clinic in Gordon! We are delighted to offer you a wonderful opportunity to rent our spacious and well-equipped consultation room.

Conveniently situated near the bustling intersection of the Pacific Highway and Ryde Road, our clinic enjoys a central location that is easily accessible for both patients and practitioners. With its prime position, it’s a convenient location for your professional visibility and success.

We understand that flexibility is essential when it comes to finding the right space for your needs. That’s why we offer flexible availability options, allowing you to rent the consultation room at a time that suits you best. Whether you prefer short-term arrangements or long-term commitments, we are more than happy to discuss and accommodate your specific requirements.

Our clinic’s consultation room is thoughtfully designed to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for both you and your clients. It boasts modern furnishings, state-of-the-art equipment, and ample natural light, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

If you’re interested in learning more about our consultation room or wish to discuss availability and rental options, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Our friendly team is eagerly awaiting your call and will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to welcoming you to our clinic and helping you thrive in your professional endeavors.

• Medically fully equipped
• Option to share our friendly and professional reception staff
• General office hours at 9am – 5pm but this is flexible
• On-site parking for you and patients/guests
• Staff room with fully functional kitchen
• In office bathrooms.

 

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Breast reconstruction is a procedure that is carried out to restore breast shape and replace breast tissue that is lost during a mastectomy or lumpectomy.

The aim is to achieve an excellent shape, volume and symmetry so that a patient feels feminine, regains their confidence, and as much as possible has less of a reminder of the cancer treatment they had to undergo. The goal is to create breasts that look symmetrical, close to the original appearance and shape, and as natural as possible.

Whether or not a breast reconstruction is performed depends on several factors: your personal decision, your physical condition and the treatment you have had for the breast cancer including previous radiation. It is important that you understand every option available for breast reconstruction.

Having the right information as a starting point for a full and frank discussion with your surgeon can help you in the journey to reconstruction.

It is important that you consider the risks and the benefits of each procedure, in order to reach a decision that is beneficial for your medical prognosis, your physical and mental health, and your personal circumstances.

While cost should not be your primary driver, different procedures have different costs. You should discuss in detail with your surgeon the different techniques and implants available, and their respective pros and cons, as well as the options that are covered by your health insurance.

 

The benefits of breast reconstruction

Different reasons may motivate you to decide for or against reconstruction. The benefits of a reconstructed breast may include:

• Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
• A way to cope with breast cancer
• An improved symmetry of your breast
• Avoiding the choice between external prostheses or a flat chest

 

Disadvantages of breast reconstruction

There are several disadvantages and problems that may occur with breast reconstruction that need to be taken into account before making a decision to go ahead:

• Not all breast reconstruction procedures are a total success, and the result might not look like you expected. Breast reconstruction for example is a lot more challenging post radiation.
• Additional corrective surgeries may be necessary and the revision rate is higher than in augmentation breast surgery
• Surgery will leave scars on your breast and, in case of autologous reconstruction, in any areas tissue was taken from to create your new breast
• A reconstructed breast may not feel the same as a natural breast (however own tissue reconstruction comes very close)
• In order to achieve symmetry between the reconstructed breast and the healthy one, reduction/lift or enlargement of the latter may be necessary

 

The length of time you’ll spend in a hospital after surgery depends on what kind of breast reconstruction you choose.

 

You have two broad options:

Implant Breast Reconstruction Sydney

Implant surgery typically takes place after a mastectomy is performed to remove the breast tumour and surrounding tissue. In a few patients the final implants may be able to be used at the time of mastectomy, whilst in others a temporary device called an expander is used which is then changed over to a permanent silicone prosthesis at a second surgery. Those who have implant surgery are usually discharged after 3 to 5 days, but there is usually a need for drains post mastectomy and reconstruction which may still be in place on discharge.

 

DIEP flap or Free Flap Reconstruction Sydney

A free flap reconstruction is a little bit more complex of an operation than the implant surgery is. With this procedure, the tissue is taken from other parts of your body, like the abdomen. Patients are usually discharged seven days after the procedure.

While free flap reconstruction surgeries may be more complex, they are nothing to be afraid of, especially at Mode Plastic Surgery. Dr Aggarwal specialise in this type of breast reconstruction and has performed numerous DIEP free flap reconstructions for our patients. These can provide patients with a look of having had a tummy tuck, and using the tissue in the abdomen to reconstruct a breast that looks (and feels!) very natural.

Both reconstructive surgeries have their pros and cons, so it’s important to talk with your surgeon about which option is best for you.

Many of the questions we hear are about recovery. Women want to know how long the surgery will affect their daily routine. If you are researching breast reconstruction surgery, here are common questions we hear.

 

When can I have sex?

You shouldn’t have sex for at least one or two weeks after surgery. You’ll want to give your body some time to recover. After that, you can have sex whenever you feel physically and emotionally ready. It’s normal to feel nervous, unsure, or self-conscious in the beginning.

 

Will breast reconstruction change my risk of cancer recurrence?

No. Studies have shown that breast reconstruction does not change the risk of breast cancer recurrence either in the breast or in other locations in the body. Breast reconstruction also does not delay a diagnosis of breast cancer recurrence or change its treatment.

There is always some risk that your cancer could return, though. It could come back in the same area as your original cancer (local recurrence), in the nearby lymph nodes (regional recurrence), or in farther-away areas (distant recurrence). The good news is there are many strategies that can reduce your risk of a breast cancer recurrence. A few of these include:

• hormone therapy
• chemotherapy
• radiation therapy
• targeted therapy
• maintaining a healthy weight
• exercising
• eating a healthy diet

Usually, your breast surgeon in conjunction with other members of the team such as medical or radiation oncologists will determine the best course of treatment for you. They will usually also ask you to see them long term for ongoing cancer surveillance.

 

How will I feel in six months? In a year? Five years?

Every woman’s breast reconstruction experience is unique. Right after surgery, you may have tenderness, numbness, and twinges of pain. These sensations usually come and go, and often decrease within the first few months after surgery. However, some may last months, even one year or longer. This is because the nerves are the slowest part of your body to heal.

As you continue to heal, you may feel scar tissue begin to form, which will feel hard. This is common and will most likely soften over the next several months. It takes at least one year, sometimes longer, for all your tissue to fully heal and your scars to fade. You may go through a period of emotional adjustment, too. If you have any concerns about your physical or emotional health during your recovery, Mode Plastic Surgery Team is here for you and has a variety of resources to help you.

 

When can I drive again?

Many women can drive two to three weeks after surgery. Depending on your reconstruction, you’ll probably be on a narcotic pain reliever for the first week after surgery. If you’ve had flap reconstruction, you may need this medicine for a few days more than if you’ve had tissue expanders or implants. Don’t drive while you take this type of medicine, which can make you drowsy. Also, don’t drive until:

• your drain(s) have been removed
• you have recovered your full range of motion
• you can comfortably turn the steering wheel

If you have questions about when it’s safe for you to drive, talk with your surgeon.

 

When will I feel less exhausted?

Fatigue is common after breast cancer surgery. After all, your body has been through a lot. Be patient with yourself as you recover, but also tell your doctor if you’re concerned about your fatigue. It may be normal, or it may be a sign of underlying factors, such as depression, insomnia, or anaemia.

 

When can I pick up my kids?

This depends on the type of reconstruction you’ve had. Regardless of surgery type, you shouldn’t lift anything heavier than five kilograms — including your kids — until your doctor says it’s safe. This is usually about six weeks for people who have tissue-transfer reconstruction and four to six weeks for people who have surgery with tissue expanders or implants. If you can, plan ahead for childcare for young kids.

 

When can I exercise?

You’ll need to avoid strenuous activities, such as jogging and tennis, until your doctor tells you it’s safe. Your physical therapist will give you written instructions on what exercises and movements you can do while your incisions are healing. Talk with your doctor or nurse before starting any exercises outside these prescribed moves. If you’re having discomfort, you may find it helpful to take some pain medication 30 minutes before starting exercise.

 

If I have restrictions that limit physical activity, can I obtain a letter to suspend my gym membership?

Yes. If you’ve had reconstruction, our office can provide you with this letter for the duration of your recovery or restriction period. If you have not had reconstruction, contact your breast surgeon’s office.

 

Who removes my drains?

If you’ve had any type of reconstruction, our plastic surgery nurse usually removes the drains when they meet the criteria to come out. You do not need to see your plastic surgeon for drain removal although they will usually regularly review you and be responsible for making the decision as to whether a drain is ready to come out.

 

Whose office should I follow up with to schedule my routine mammogram?

Your breast surgeon should schedule your routine mammograms.

 

When should I schedule a breast reconstruction surgery consultation to discuss next steps?

If you are considering breast reconstruction, but have many questions you would like to have answered in person by a board-certified plastic surgeon, don’t wait any longer. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Aggarwal today and schedule a consultation.

 

 

If you are considering breast reconstruction you should book in a consultation with a specialist plastic surgeon who specialises in breast reconstruction. You will get a chance to be evaluated, discuss the options that suit you, and have your questions answered. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Aggarwal today .