Breast Lift Side Effects and Risks
Side Effects and Risks
If you have been considering a breast lift to correct that big of chest sag, then you're probably interested in knowing the side effects and risks of the procedure. That's understandable. A breast lift is a serious medical procedure that includes more complications than most other cosmetic surgeries.
The most basic risks associated with an invasive medical procedure can be avoided by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon. With accreditation comes an expectation of experience and skill. But even the best surgeons can't prevent the unpredictable. You should at least be aware of the problems that can arise during and after
the surgery.
During the surgery you could have an allergic reaction to the anesthesia that will be used on you. However, a thorough examination of your medical history should reveal these allergic tendencies. If you're going under general anesthesia there are more complications than local anesthesia. With a general anesthesia comes a long downtime after the surgery. Most patients feel nauseous and weak afterwards, thus requiring an overnight hospital stay.
Scarring
One of the biggest side effects of a breast lift is scarring. The breasts in particular are sensitive to incisions. Scars that arise from the incisions as they heal don't fade as easily as other parts of the body. Most breast lift patients have permanently visible scars that serve as a reminder that they had surgery. Scars can usually be hidden in the bottom portion of the breast, allowing patients to wear low-cut tops and bathing suits without much worry. Some scarring irregularities can arise if the patient has a history of skin problems.
Another allergic reaction can occur with the prescription drugs you'll need to stem the discomfort and pain after the surgery. Antibiotics like penicillin and painkillers like Novocain can cause adverse reactions. There are always alternatives to these drugs if an allergy does develop.
Permanent nerve damage is a rare occurrence, though temporary nerve damage is a common ailment. Patients can feel numbness or tingling for several months after the surgery. The sense of feeling should return as the tissues heal, though some patients never fully recover.
A breast lift isn't permanent unless an internal breast lift was used to help make the transformation stick. The original causes of breast sag remain present so it's likely that with time the breasts will begin to sag again.
Other problems like asymmetry in the breasts can result as the breasts heal, this can be fixed with corrective surgery.
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