Deciding on breast surgery is a serious step. It’s important to approach the procedure with the utmost responsibility. To ensure you enjoy the results for years to come, you need to choose a good surgeon and thoroughly prepare yourself, both physically and mentally. In this article, we’ll explain how
Let’s discuss this important procedure in more detail.
Breast surgery aims to change the size or shape of the breasts. You have several options:
Each surgery has its own goals, and together with your surgeon, you will choose the one that’s best for you.
In the weeks leading up to your surgery, you will need to:
Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. You may need to temporarily discontinue some of them. Avoid all medications containing aspirin 10 days before surgery. You should also avoid high doses of vitamins E and C and ginkgo biloba supplements, as they can affect blood clotting. You will need to quit smoking, limit alcohol, and avoid other unhealthy habits as advised by your doctor.
Create a comfortable environment for your return home after surgery. Make your space as cozy and safe as possible for the healing period. Place all necessary items (phone, charger, book, remote) within easy reach. This will prevent you from stretching or getting up unnecessarily. Ask family members to help with cooking and cleaning, or hire an assistant if needed. Go grocery shopping in advance. You will need ice packs, comfortable clothing, any medications prescribed by your doctor, and light, healthy food and drinks to maintain your strength and hydration.
From midnight the night before your surgery, you will not eat or drink anything. If you break this rule, your surgery may be canceled. The hospital will call you the day before and tell you exactly what time you should arrive. This is usually two hours before the surgery.
Shower and brush your teeth as usual, but try not to swallow water. Wear or pack a loose shirt that buttons in the front. It’s the most convenient way to go home. Bring all your regular medications and a list of their names and dosages. Remove all jewelry, makeup, nail polish, and contact lenses.
Arrive on time and go to the department you were directed to by phone. Go to the preoperative area and leave your belongings in a locker. Put on a hospital gown, a robe, and slippers. You can rest in this room with one or two family members. A nurse will place an identification bracelet on your wrist, take your temperature and other vital signs. She will review the surgical details with you and ask you to confirm which side will be operated on. If necessary, the doctor will mark the surgical site with a marker. You will have a brief meeting with the surgeon and anesthesiologist, who will answer any questions you may have.
A nurse will insert an intravenous (IV) line. This will be used to administer medications and fluids during and after the surgery. The IV will remain with you until you are transferred to your room. In the operating room
You will be asked to remove dentures (if any), glasses, and a wig. Your family will then proceed to the waiting area. Once you enter the operating room, you will meet the rest of the surgical team. The doctor will connect you to a machine to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure and place a pulse oximeter (a small sensor that measures your blood oxygen levels) on your finger.
The type of anesthesia depends on the type of surgery and your preferences. An anesthesiologist will monitor your condition throughout the procedure.
The type of surgery depends on your diagnosis and goals. Possible procedures include:
After surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery room. You will recover from anesthesia under the supervision of nurses. Your family will be informed immediately that the surgery is complete.
If you are going home the same day, you will be transferred to a day hospital ward. Your family can visit you there, and a doctor or nurse will explain all the discharge instructions in detail before you are discharged. An adult companion must pick you up.
If you remain in the hospital, your family can visit you in your ward.
Your surgeon will give you clear instructions on caring for your stitches, dressings, and drains. Follow these instructions strictly. This is the foundation for rapid healing.
Here are general tips for all patients:
You will see your surgeon one to two weeks after surgery. During this appointment, they will discuss the histology results in detail. If necessary, your stitches and drains will be removed.
We know that deciding to have breast surgery brings up a lot of feelings—excitement, hope, maybe a little nervousness. That’s completely normal. The most important thing is that you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Here at the Bariatric Surgical Center Tuscaloosa, our team, led by Dr. Bradley D. Bilton, is here to guide you at every step. Dr. Bilton is a board-certified general surgeon and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the ASMBS. Since 2001, he has focused on advanced, minimally invasive techniques to help his patients recover faster and with less discomfort.
The best results come from a partnership. a well-informed patient working with an experienced, trusted surgeon.
Ready to take the next step? Call Dr. Bilton’s office today to schedule your consultation. We’ll answer all your questions and help you move forward with peace of mind.
