La Jolla / San Diego Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Tom Pousti Talks About 2 Stage Breast Procedures
Description
While breast augmentation or mastopexy surgery is relatively simple and generally complication free, breast augmentation/mastopexy surgery done together carries increased chances of complications and need for further surgery. For example, there is an increased risk of infection, implant exposure, breast asymmetry, loss of nipple-areola sensation, inability to breast feed, mal-positioning of the nipple-areola complex, mal-position of the implants, wound healing problems, tissue necrosis, loss of blood supply to the nipple-areola complexes. Any of these complications may require further surgery, therefore, increasing the likelihood of revisionary surgery. To avoid these risks Dr. Pousti frequently recommends a ‘2-stage procedure’. First stage being a breast lift followed by augmentation once the patient heals. Generally good candidates for a 2-stage procedure are patients that need a significant amount of skin removed or patients interested in extra large implants.
The Surgical Procedure
Prior to the procedure the patient is examined by Dr. Pousti. The planned procedure of the first stage of the procedure (the mastopexy) is explained in detail.
The markings of the breast lift surgery are done the day before in the office. During the mastopexy the nipple-areola complex is relocated, the breast tissue is rearranged and the breast placement is improved by tightening the skin.
After Patient has Healed from Breast Lift
Once the patient is healed it is time for the second stage, the breast augmentation. Markings of the breast enhancement procedure are done prior to surgery as well.
The implants are placed in the breast through a small incision. In most cases Dr. Pousti will use the same incision site used for the breast lift to prevent further scaring.
What To Expect After Surgery
Pain is rarely strong, more commonly being a degree of discomfort. Swelling occurs but usually begins to subside by the third or fourth day. Some degree of swelling may persist for longer periods. A well-fitted bra is worn day and night for three weeks. While there is probably seldom interference with future breast feeding, women are cautioned that it may not be possible to breast feed in the future.
Resumption Of Physical Activities
Driving may be resumed in 2 weeks.
Non-contact sports in 3 weeks.
Contact sports in 6 weeks.
Sexual activity in 2 weeks.
OK, so we have all been there or we wouldn’t be here. We’ve sat on the beach next to our man and caught him catching a glimpse of a girl in the bikini and wished we were her or at least built like her. Nice shape and all. We are the ones at the swimming pool covered up with the over-sized towel to hide what time has either taken away or maybe didn’t give us to start with. I WAS ONE OF THOSE WOMEN. After having several children, my body was definitely lacking what once was. But at my age, I thought I was crazy for even thinking about having plastic surgery. I thought long and hard about it and met with several specialists. It was not until I met Dr. Pousti that I was sure this was the right thing to do. Right from the start, Dr. Pousti made it clear to me that he would not do the surgery for my husband’s sake. He would do it if it was for me. I did not know how much it would change my life. Dr. Pousti made me feel so comfortable from the very first visit to his office. His staff was very professional and made me feel very comfortable the way they helped me with the scheduling, the paperwork and the appointments. It was after my first visit with Dr. Pousti that I made the decision to go ahead with surgery. I FEEL LIKE A NEW WOMAN. My confidence is way beyond my expectations! I am proud of my body! Thanks to help from Dr. Pousti, I love the way I see myself when I look in the mirror. I have the confidence in myself that I haven’t had in many years. I thank God for Dr. Pousti, for giving me my woman-hood back. To all of you reading this letter, all I can say is, you are in the right place with the right doctor. GO FOR IT! and enjoy life the way that I am finally enjoying it!!!
Once the patient is healed it is time for the second stage, the breast augmentation. Markings of the breast enhancement procedure are done prior to surgery as well.
The implants are placed in the breast through a small incision. In most cases Dr. Pousti will use the same incision site used for the breast lift to prevent further scaring.
Pain is rarely strong, more commonly being a degree of discomfort. Swelling occurs but usually begins to subside by the third or fourth day. Some degree of swelling may persist for longer periods. A well-fitted bra is worn day and night for three weeks. While there is probably seldom interference with future breast feeding, women are cautioned that it may not be possible to breast feed in the future.
