After undergoing any sort of surgery, patients are bound to experience side effects. Side effects are a natural part of the healing process, and a sign that your body is recovering properly. During the consultation process at our Dallas, TX plastic surgery center, we'll be sure to provide ample information about side effects and recovery.

The practice has received a number of questions about breast lift surgery (mastopexy) in recent months. Because of this, we'd like to focus on the nature of the procedure and then discuss the side effects that patients experience as they are healing.

About Breast Lift Surgery

Breast lift surgery is a procedure that is performed to restore the perkiness and firmness of breasts that droop or sag. During the procedure, incisions are made along the underside of the breasts. Through these incisions, excess skin and tissue is removed in order to achieve a more ideal breast shape.

Pain and Discomfort

As with any surgery, a certain amount of pain and discomfort is common. Patients will often notice a fair amount of soreness around the breasts, chest, and nipples following surgery. The pain is most pronounced in the first day or so, and then fades with each passing day. Patients can take pain relievers as directed by their surgeons to address this side effect. Getting ample rest also helps the pain go away sooner.

Bruising and Swelling

Bruising and swelling is also a common side effect that accompanies any type of surgery. Major bruising will typically fade over the course of two weeks, with minor discoloration and residual bruising fading by the end of a month. As for swelling, major swelling typically fades over the course of two weeks, with some minor swelling lasting for a month. It's not uncommon for residual swelling to last for several weeks after surgery. Wearing a surgical bra as directed and applying cold compresses can help manage these two side effects.

Changes in Breast and Nipple Sensitivity

Since incisions are made on the breasts and around the nipples, patients will experience some numbness or tingling around the incision sites. This is a normal response as nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue repair themselves. These issues with numbness and tingling will typically last for several weeks, resolving over time as patients make a full recovery.

Post-Surgical Scarring

Scars are an unavoidable part of any breast enhancement surgery. All efforts are made to minimize scarring. During the consultation process, surgeons can address any scarring concerns that patients may have in greater detail. Keep in mind that the scars from breast lift surgery can be concealed by most undergarments, tops, and bathing suits.

Attend Follow-up Visits for Proper Post-op Care

Following breast lift surgery, patients will attend a few follow-up visits with their surgeon to monitor recovery and address any concerns should they arise. Be sure to attend all follow-up visits as scheduled. It is also important to contact your surgeon if any urgent matters or concerns should arise as you are healing.

Learn More about Breast Lift Surgery

For more information about breast lift surgery and how it can help you look younger and more vibrant, be sure to contact an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon today. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.