Breast surgery is a type of surgery that is performed to improve the appearance or function of the breasts.

Ladies, if you’re considering breast surgery, whether it’s for cosmetic purposes or as part of your cancer treatment journey, preparation is key! There are several things that you can do before your surgical procedure that will help set the stage for a successful and smooth recovery. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some essential steps to take before undergoing breast surgery so that you can feel confident and prepared every step of the way. So grab a cup of tea, sit back and let’s dive in!

What is Breast Surgery?

Breast surgery is a type of surgery that is performed to improve the appearance or function of the breasts. There are many different types of breast surgeries, and each one has its own specific purpose. Some common types of breast surgeries include:

-Breast augmentation: Breast augmentation is a type of surgery that is used to increase the size of the breasts. This type of surgery is typically done for cosmetic reasons, but it can also be used to correct a birth defect or to restore the breasts after weight loss.

-Breast lift: A breast lift is a type of surgery that is used to lift up the breasts. This type of surgery is typically done for cosmetic reasons, but it can also be used to correct drooping breasts after weight loss or pregnancy.

-Breast reduction: Breast reduction is a type of surgery that is used to reduce the size of the breasts. This type of surgery is typically done for medical reasons, such as back pain or difficulty finding clothing that fits properly.

No matter what your reason for needing breast surgery, it’s important to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and make sure that you are making the best decision for your body and your health.

Pre-Surgery Preparation Tips

Pre-surgery preparation tips can help you mentally and physically prepare for your upcoming breast surgery. Below are 10 tips to consider before breast surgery:

1. Educate yourself about the surgery. Research and ask questions to your surgeon about the procedure, what to expect pre- and post-operative, and what kind of recovery time you can expect. Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety.

2. Get a second opinion. If you have any doubts about the necessity of the surgery or the recommended course of treatment, get a second opinion from another board certified plastic surgeon.

3. Quit smoking. If you smoke, it’s important to quit at least 4 weeks prior to surgery as smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.

4. Avoid taking certain medications and supplements before surgery. Be sure to talk to your surgeon about which medications and supplements should be avoided in the weeks leading up to surgery as they may increase bleeding risks or interfere with anesthesia. Common examples include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, vitamin E, and green tea extract supplements.

5. Manage your stress levels. Stress can impact both your physical and mental wellbeing so it’s important to find ways to manage it in the weeks before your surgery date. Consider starting or continuing regular exercise routines, practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises, journaling, or speaking with a therapist if necessary.

6. Arrange for help after surgery. Breast surgery can be painful and you won’t be able to drive yourself home afterwards. Ask your friends or family members if they can help you out after your procedure either with transportation, meals, errands or appointments until you’re feeling back to your normal self.

7. Get plenty of rest. Aim to get between 7-8 hours of sleep each night in the weeks leading up to surgery so that your body is well-rested and in its best condition for the procedure.

8. Eat healthily and stay hydrated: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of nutrient rich foods will ensure that your body has all it needs to properly heal from surgery, while drinking plenty of water will help to flush out toxins from the body, keeping you hydrated and healthy during recovery.

9. Follow pre-operative instructions given by your surgeon and anesthesiologist carefully: Before any surgery, it is important that patients follow their pre-operative instructions as instructed such as avoiding eating/drinking before the procedure, refraining from taking certain medications or supplements, wearing comfortable clothes etc.

10. Bring a support person along with you on the day of your surgery: Having someone there during surgery can help ease your mind and provide some comfort.

By following these tips, you can get the most out of your breast surgery and ensure that the procedure is successful. But always remember to be sure to consult with your surgeon and anesthesiologist prior to taking any medications or supplements or making any lifestyle changes before breast surgery.

Medications to Avoid/Discontinue

There are certain medications that you should avoid or discontinue before breast surgery. These include:

-Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These can increase bleeding during and after surgery. If you must take these medications, be sure to stop at least one week before surgery.

-Herbal supplements: Many herbs can also increase bleeding during and after surgery. Be sure to discontinue use at least two weeks prior to surgery.

-Anticoagulants: These medications thin the blood and can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. If you must take these medications, be sure to stop at least one week before surgery.

-Statin drugs: These cholesterol-lowering medications can cause muscle weakness and should be discontinued at least one week prior to surgery.

Life Changes to Prepare for

Breast cancer surgery is a big event in a woman’s life. It can be an emotionally and physically challenging time. There are many things you can do to help prepare for your surgery and recovery.

Start by talking to your doctor about your surgery. Ask about the type of procedure you will have, what to expect during and after surgery, and how long your recovery will take. You should also ask about any special instructions for preparing for surgery, such as quitting smoking or taking certain medications.

It is also important to take care of your physical health before breast cancer surgery. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. These healthy habits will help you feel strong and ready for surgery.

Finally, make sure you have a support system in place before your surgery. Talk to family and friends about your upcoming procedure. Let them know how they can help you during this time. You may also want to join a support group or meet with a counselor to talk about your feelings surrounding the surgery.

How Long Does It Take to Recover?

The length of time it takes to recover from breast surgery varies depending on the type of procedure you had. For example, if you had a lumpectomy, you may only need to stay in the hospital for a night or two. But if you had a mastectomy, you may need to stay in the hospital for up to a week.

In either case, you can expect to feel some pain and soreness for a few weeks after your surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help you cope with this discomfort. You may also need to take it easy for a while, avoiding strenuous activity and giving your body time to heal.

Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a month or two after breast surgery. However, it may take longer for some people to fully recover. If you have any concerns about your recovery, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Before you undergo breast surgery, it’s important to ask your doctor a variety of questions. Here are some examples:

-What is the expected outcome of the surgery?
-Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with the surgery?
-How long will the surgery take?
-What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
-What is the recovery time after the surgery?
-Will I need to take any medication after the surgery?
-When can I expect to see results from the surgery?

Post Surgery Care Plan

After you have decided to undergo breast surgery, it is important to develop a care plan for post-surgery. This care plan should be discussed with your surgeon prior to surgery.

1. Rest and Recovery: It is important to get plenty of rest after your surgery. You may need to take some time off from work or other activities. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on when you can return to your normal activities.

2. Pain Management: You will likely experience some pain and discomfort after your surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage this. Be sure to take the medication as directed and follow up with your surgeon if you have any concerns.

3. Wound Care: After your surgery, you will have incisions that need to heal properly. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to care for your incisions, including keeping them clean and dry.

4. Follow-Up Appointments: It is important to keep all of your follow-up appointments with your surgeon so that they can monitor your healing process and determine if any additional treatments are needed.

Clinical Trials: New Treatments and Technologies

There are always new treatments and technologies being developed for breast cancer, and clinical trials are an important part of that process. Trials help researchers test new drugs and other treatments to see if they are safe and effective. If you are considering breast surgery, it is important to talk to your doctor about any clinical trials that might be appropriate for you. Some clinical trials are open to women of all ages, while others are only for women over a certain age. Your doctor can help you find out if there are any clinical trials that you might be eligible for.

Before undergoing breast surgery, it is important to have a clear understanding of the risks and benefits involved. Doing your research and consulting with a qualified medical professional can help you make an informed decision about what type of procedure will be best for your specific needs. For optimal results, follow the guidelines that are laid out in this article to ensure that you are prepared for any potential issues before, during, and after the procedure. With the right preparations, you can rest assured knowing that breast surgery is a safe and successful way to achieve your desired look.