As part of our commitment to service excellence, Surgical Escapes is proud to offer informative pre & post surgery advice and recovery tips we hope you will find of great value. Should you have any other concerns or doubts please do not hesitate to ask us.
Tips and Traps
The only true way to avoid potential pitfalls is to be aware of them.
Is the surgeon certified and with whom?
You will want to make sure they are certified by one of the following amongst others:
• Internacional Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
• Federación Ibero Latinoamericana de Cirugía Plástica y Reconstructiva (FILACP)
• Asociación Médica Argentina (AMA)
• Buenos Aires Plastic Surgery Society (SCPBA)
• Sociedad Argentina De Cirugía Plástica, Estética, Reparadora (SACPER)
• International Confederation for Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (IPRAS)
• International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
• Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as Plastic Surgeons
• The Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons of Southern Africa (APRSSA)
What is the surgery fee? What does that fee include?
Does the cost of the surgery include everything like the anesthesiologist, the facility, and the implants? If not then make sure you get a list of the items that are covered and those that will be additional costs to you.
Is the doctor punctual?
If so, then expect to be seen promptly.
• Did they explain procedures, risks, and alternatives in detail and with clarity?
• Did they describe recovery time and postoperative care?
• Did they convey realistic expectations?
• Did they answer questions thoroughly?
• Did they listen to your concerns?
• Did they make you feel comfortable?
If the answers to each of these questions are a resounding "no," then you should consider seeing another plastic surgeon. It is important that a plastic surgeon makes you feel comfortable, is informative and thorough with you about the procedure and is willing to take the time to ease your concerns. If they are not willing to do this, you should consider seeking another surgeon.
Consider general, sedation, and local anesthesia. Note that you may sleep during either general or sedation anesthesia, although the depth of sleep varies.
May I see pictures of others who have had the same procedure?
Know that most will show you their best pictures, so this exercise may be of limited help. This is actually most useful if you dislike the results you see, because it tells you that your surgeon's best results are below your expectations and it is time to see someone else.
May I speak with others who have had the same procedure?
Know that most doctors will refer you only to their satisfied patients. This is not generally a useful activity.
Do you have privileges to perform this procedure in a hospital?
Even if performed in the office, your surgeon should have hospital privileges to perform the procedure as evidence of his or her qualifications.
Will surgery be performed in the office or hospital?
If your surgeon suggests the office, be certain that the office is accredited for your procedure and that the surgeon has hospital privileges to perform the procedure you seek.
If surgery takes longer than expected, who will pay the extra cost?
This is an important question when surgery is performed in the hospital because the operating room and anesthesia fees may accrue hourly. You'll want to be sure to cover this before the surgery to avoid any surprises later.
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
Recovering from Surgery
Every surgery requires some type of recovery. Your recovery will usually take a couple of days to a few weeks. Prescribed medication will help ease the discomfort. Before any surgery, discuss with your surgeon a realistic recovery plan so that you can make arrangements as needed.
If you work during the week, plan your surgery so that you will have sufficient recovery time.
Expect to have blood drawn at a hospital or lab prior to surgery. A mammogram is usually obtained before breast surgery. If you are over 40 or have medical problems, you may also need an EKG or chest X-ray. The preoperative testing process usually requires a separate visit and will take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.
Anticipate the need to reduce swelling following facial surgery by applying ice and elevating your head. Crushed ice can be placed in a plastic bag, wrapped in a small towel, and freshened regularly. Alternatively, frozen peas are tidy, reusable, and maintain their cold temperature. For elevation of your head, stacked pillows are prone to failure, but a dependable backrest can be used. A recliner is a reliable way to elevate your head but may be uncomfortable for sleeping.
Ask a friend or family member to stay with you during your first night at home. This person should be willing and able to refresh your ice packs, prepare your food, check on you through the night, recognize problems, and call your doctor or consider hiring a private duty nurse.
Fill prescriptions for antibiotics and pain medication prior to the day of surgery. Pick up the prescriptions from your doctor's office/pharmacy before surgery.
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
After Surgery
Expect to look worse before you look better. Nearly all cosmetic surgery procedures involve swelling and bruising. As the swelling and bruising fades, you will begin to see your results.
If you had surgery on your face or neck, keep your head elevated. For two to three days to minimize swelling and speed recovery. Do not underestimate the importance of elevation: keeping your head elevated will reduce your recovery time, whereas failure to do so will prolong it and may create disturbing asymmetries.
When you may shower, bathe, and wash your hair. Ask your doctor. Often this is allowed within a day or two of surgery.
Return to work. Between three days and two weeks following most cosmetic operations, depending on the procedure and your occupation.
Do not drive while you are taking pain medication. It will alter your judgment and delay your responses. Following most operations, you will be able to drive once you stop taking pain medication but it important to arrange a driver for yourself while on medication.
Consult with your doctor before taking any vitamins or herbal medications that you may believe are harmless. Some of these medications may cause problems.
You may resume exercise once your doctor allows it. Do not exercise before that time, even if you feel able. Exercise may worsen your swelling and confound your final result.
Vitamin E is falsely perceived to minimize scar visibility. Whether taken in pill form or as a topical cream, there is no evidence that it improves scar appearance.
Use extreme caution when exposing yourself to the sun following surgery. During the first year, protect all surgical sites with potent sun block (SPF 15 - 40).
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
More useful Information
There are two important measurements to make. These measurements are in inches and apply mainly to the North American market.
The first is the band size around the chest. Use a tape-measure around the chest just under the breast. Keep the tape level on the front and back.
Add 5" to this measurement to obtain your chest band size.
The second is the cup size. You should measure around the breast at the fullest part. The difference between this measurement and your chest band size is your cup size. Each inch of difference is a cup size.
Everyone is a little different so you may want to be measured by a professional.
What size of implant to use
Any woman who has been fitted for a bra knows that every bra maker seems to have a different method of measuring cup size. Some patients can be two or even three different sizes depending on the manufacturer. This makes deciding on size difficult. Even though it is not usually possible to make a breast look like a picture it may help to bring your surgeon a picture from a magazine or catalogue. This helps your surgeon understand your expectations and desires.
Many patients worry that after surgery they will be too big or too small. This can happen because it is impossible to always gauge the exact patient need. However it is much less common than you might imagine. Most surgeons are well trained to advise about this.
Some patients will always think the breast is too small after surgery no matter how large the implant. This may be because after a lifetime in which their body image is fixed on the idea that they have a small breast, nothing will change it, not even large implants.
Implants are usually sized in metric measurements. Many surgeons assess the size increase, and therefore the implant needed, by using the formula that 1 (one) cup size = 150 ml (cc). A two cup size increase would need about a 300 cc implant. This amount needs to be added to the amount of breast tissue you have now. For example if you are now an A cup then a 300 cc implant may bring you close to a full C. Unfortunately many factors need to be considered in deciding about size and shape and your surgeon can talk with you about this.
A final point of confusion for patients is that as they go from surgeon to surgeon they may be told that different size implants produce the same increase. Remember that if the implant is placed below the muscle a larger implant may be needed, often as much as 100 cc or more. So confirm with the surgeon if the size described is for above or below the muscle.
Preparing To Measure
For best results, measure yourself wearing an unlined or lightly lined bra.
Step One: Band Size
Using a soft tape-measure, measure around the ribcage directly under the bust. The tape should rest on the lower band of your bra. Be sure the tape is snug, smooth across the back and level with the front.
Add 5 to this measurement to obtain your band size. For example, if your ribcage measurement is 29" + (5) = 34" band size. If the resulting band size is an odd number like 33", you can usually go to the next even band size (34"), but you may also want to try the next lower band size (32").
Step Two: Cup Size
Measure completely around the bust at the fullest point, holding the tape measure straight but not tight. The difference between this measurement and your BAND size is your cup size. Each inch of difference is equal to one cup size. For example, if your band size is 34" and your bust measurement is 35", you wear an "A" cup. If the difference is: less than
1 inch = AA cup
1 inch = A cup
2 inches = B cup
3 inches = C cup
4 inches = D cup
5 inches = DD cup
While this method is generally reliable, every woman's figure is different and results may vary slightly. We recommend that you try several sizes and styles to find the fit that works best for you.
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
This web site is for information only.
Do not use the information herein to diagnose or treat your plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery problems. You should contact your plastic surgeon with all questions and concerns.
Tips and TrapsThe only true way to avoid potential pitfalls is to be aware of them.
Questions to ask when scheduling an appointment
When calling to schedule your initial appointment, ask questions freely. Expect the staff to be courteous, informative, and accommodating. Remember this simple rule, if they are not pleasant before surgery, they certainly will not be afterwards.Is the surgeon certified and with whom?
You will want to make sure they are certified by one of the following amongst others:
• Internacional Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
• Federación Ibero Latinoamericana de Cirugía Plástica y Reconstructiva (FILACP)
• Asociación Médica Argentina (AMA)
• Buenos Aires Plastic Surgery Society (SCPBA)
• Sociedad Argentina De Cirugía Plástica, Estética, Reparadora (SACPER)
• International Confederation for Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (IPRAS)
• International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
• Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as Plastic Surgeons
• The Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons of Southern Africa (APRSSA)
What is the surgery fee? What does that fee include?
Does the cost of the surgery include everything like the anesthesiologist, the facility, and the implants? If not then make sure you get a list of the items that are covered and those that will be additional costs to you.
Is the doctor punctual?
If so, then expect to be seen promptly.
Checklist for your surgeon
• Is the doctor certified?• Did they explain procedures, risks, and alternatives in detail and with clarity?
• Did they describe recovery time and postoperative care?
• Did they convey realistic expectations?
• Did they answer questions thoroughly?
• Did they listen to your concerns?
• Did they make you feel comfortable?
If the answers to each of these questions are a resounding "no," then you should consider seeing another plastic surgeon. It is important that a plastic surgeon makes you feel comfortable, is informative and thorough with you about the procedure and is willing to take the time to ease your concerns. If they are not willing to do this, you should consider seeking another surgeon.
Questions to ask your surgeon during the consultation
Will I be awake or asleep for surgery?Consider general, sedation, and local anesthesia. Note that you may sleep during either general or sedation anesthesia, although the depth of sleep varies.
May I see pictures of others who have had the same procedure?
Know that most will show you their best pictures, so this exercise may be of limited help. This is actually most useful if you dislike the results you see, because it tells you that your surgeon's best results are below your expectations and it is time to see someone else.
May I speak with others who have had the same procedure?
Know that most doctors will refer you only to their satisfied patients. This is not generally a useful activity.
Do you have privileges to perform this procedure in a hospital?
Even if performed in the office, your surgeon should have hospital privileges to perform the procedure as evidence of his or her qualifications.
Will surgery be performed in the office or hospital?
If your surgeon suggests the office, be certain that the office is accredited for your procedure and that the surgeon has hospital privileges to perform the procedure you seek.
If surgery takes longer than expected, who will pay the extra cost?
This is an important question when surgery is performed in the hospital because the operating room and anesthesia fees may accrue hourly. You'll want to be sure to cover this before the surgery to avoid any surprises later.
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
Recovering from SurgeryEvery surgery requires some type of recovery. Your recovery will usually take a couple of days to a few weeks. Prescribed medication will help ease the discomfort. Before any surgery, discuss with your surgeon a realistic recovery plan so that you can make arrangements as needed.
If you work during the week, plan your surgery so that you will have sufficient recovery time.
Expect to have blood drawn at a hospital or lab prior to surgery. A mammogram is usually obtained before breast surgery. If you are over 40 or have medical problems, you may also need an EKG or chest X-ray. The preoperative testing process usually requires a separate visit and will take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.
Anticipate the need to reduce swelling following facial surgery by applying ice and elevating your head. Crushed ice can be placed in a plastic bag, wrapped in a small towel, and freshened regularly. Alternatively, frozen peas are tidy, reusable, and maintain their cold temperature. For elevation of your head, stacked pillows are prone to failure, but a dependable backrest can be used. A recliner is a reliable way to elevate your head but may be uncomfortable for sleeping.
Ask a friend or family member to stay with you during your first night at home. This person should be willing and able to refresh your ice packs, prepare your food, check on you through the night, recognize problems, and call your doctor or consider hiring a private duty nurse.
Fill prescriptions for antibiotics and pain medication prior to the day of surgery. Pick up the prescriptions from your doctor's office/pharmacy before surgery.
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
After SurgeryExpect to look worse before you look better. Nearly all cosmetic surgery procedures involve swelling and bruising. As the swelling and bruising fades, you will begin to see your results.
If you had surgery on your face or neck, keep your head elevated. For two to three days to minimize swelling and speed recovery. Do not underestimate the importance of elevation: keeping your head elevated will reduce your recovery time, whereas failure to do so will prolong it and may create disturbing asymmetries.
When you may shower, bathe, and wash your hair. Ask your doctor. Often this is allowed within a day or two of surgery.
Return to work. Between three days and two weeks following most cosmetic operations, depending on the procedure and your occupation.
Do not drive while you are taking pain medication. It will alter your judgment and delay your responses. Following most operations, you will be able to drive once you stop taking pain medication but it important to arrange a driver for yourself while on medication.
Consult with your doctor before taking any vitamins or herbal medications that you may believe are harmless. Some of these medications may cause problems.
You may resume exercise once your doctor allows it. Do not exercise before that time, even if you feel able. Exercise may worsen your swelling and confound your final result.
Vitamin E is falsely perceived to minimize scar visibility. Whether taken in pill form or as a topical cream, there is no evidence that it improves scar appearance.
Use extreme caution when exposing yourself to the sun following surgery. During the first year, protect all surgical sites with potent sun block (SPF 15 - 40).
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
More useful InformationMeasuring for Bra Size
Plastic Surgeons usually consider 1 cup size to be about 150 mls or cc. This means that when deciding on an implant size a 2 cup size increase is about 300 cc. When the implant is under the muscle you need to allow about 75-100 cc more. However none of this will help you when trying to decide what size of bra you need now or after surgery.There are two important measurements to make. These measurements are in inches and apply mainly to the North American market.
The first is the band size around the chest. Use a tape-measure around the chest just under the breast. Keep the tape level on the front and back.
Add 5" to this measurement to obtain your chest band size.
The second is the cup size. You should measure around the breast at the fullest part. The difference between this measurement and your chest band size is your cup size. Each inch of difference is a cup size.
Everyone is a little different so you may want to be measured by a professional.
What size of implant to use
Any woman who has been fitted for a bra knows that every bra maker seems to have a different method of measuring cup size. Some patients can be two or even three different sizes depending on the manufacturer. This makes deciding on size difficult. Even though it is not usually possible to make a breast look like a picture it may help to bring your surgeon a picture from a magazine or catalogue. This helps your surgeon understand your expectations and desires.
Many patients worry that after surgery they will be too big or too small. This can happen because it is impossible to always gauge the exact patient need. However it is much less common than you might imagine. Most surgeons are well trained to advise about this.
Some patients will always think the breast is too small after surgery no matter how large the implant. This may be because after a lifetime in which their body image is fixed on the idea that they have a small breast, nothing will change it, not even large implants.
Implants are usually sized in metric measurements. Many surgeons assess the size increase, and therefore the implant needed, by using the formula that 1 (one) cup size = 150 ml (cc). A two cup size increase would need about a 300 cc implant. This amount needs to be added to the amount of breast tissue you have now. For example if you are now an A cup then a 300 cc implant may bring you close to a full C. Unfortunately many factors need to be considered in deciding about size and shape and your surgeon can talk with you about this.
A final point of confusion for patients is that as they go from surgeon to surgeon they may be told that different size implants produce the same increase. Remember that if the implant is placed below the muscle a larger implant may be needed, often as much as 100 cc or more. So confirm with the surgeon if the size described is for above or below the muscle.
Preparing To Measure
For best results, measure yourself wearing an unlined or lightly lined bra.
Step One: Band Size
Using a soft tape-measure, measure around the ribcage directly under the bust. The tape should rest on the lower band of your bra. Be sure the tape is snug, smooth across the back and level with the front.
Add 5 to this measurement to obtain your band size. For example, if your ribcage measurement is 29" + (5) = 34" band size. If the resulting band size is an odd number like 33", you can usually go to the next even band size (34"), but you may also want to try the next lower band size (32").
Step Two: Cup Size
Measure completely around the bust at the fullest point, holding the tape measure straight but not tight. The difference between this measurement and your BAND size is your cup size. Each inch of difference is equal to one cup size. For example, if your band size is 34" and your bust measurement is 35", you wear an "A" cup. If the difference is: less than
1 inch = AA cup
1 inch = A cup
2 inches = B cup
3 inches = C cup
4 inches = D cup
5 inches = DD cup
While this method is generally reliable, every woman's figure is different and results may vary slightly. We recommend that you try several sizes and styles to find the fit that works best for you.
[x] _____________________________________________________________________________________
This web site is for information only.
Do not use the information herein to diagnose or treat your plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery problems. You should contact your plastic surgeon with all questions and concerns.
