Breast Complications
Capsular contracture (or CC, as it is commonly described) is one of the most common complications after breast augmentation. For most women who desire to enhance their femininity with augmentation, it is a significant concern and risk. In a normal recovery, the implant will get surrounded by tissue that forms a scar. Usually this scar is not noticeable from the surface.
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue is excessive and the scar tightens around the implant, giving it an unnatural, squeezed look that is visible on the surface. It makes the breasts unsightly and creates an unacceptable look. If severe, it can cause physical pain and discomfort besides affecting a woman’s self-image and confidence.
Surgeons don’t know what makes certain individuals more susceptible than others to the scarring leading to capsular contracture, but they have found that women who practice breast massage after surgery are less prone to getting this complication. Today, most experienced surgeons will recommend massage as a post-surgical recovery practice.
Massage only recommended in women with smooth implants as textured ones are not meant to be shifted within the pocket. However, your surgeon knows best and you should follow their recommendations before opting to practice post operative breast massage.
How Massage Works
Doctors believe that massaging the breast after surgery allows the device to shift in the breast pocket. This allows the pocket to stay open and prevents scar tissue from tightening around the implant. Your surgeon will usually recommend that you begin performing these techniques a few days post-surgery and repeat it every few hours.
When you start your massage practice, be gentle with your motions as your breasts will be very tender and sore after surgery. All you are required to do is shift the implant in the pocket that was created for it using a simple squeezing motion that moves up and to the sides. How long you should practice your massage depends on what your doctor advices. Some surgeons recommend stopping after a few months of recovery, while others believe that you should continue massage for the lifetime of the implants.
Another way to avoid capsular contracture is implant compression that involves squeezing the implants. Besides implant massage, here are some other factors that may help prevent capsular contracture:
Smoking: Smoking affects the process of wound healing, so your surgeon will recommend that you stop smoking even before your surgery. The earlier you quit the better your chances of a smooth recovery and healing process.
Prescription medications: Aspirin and some other pain medications can cause excessive bleeding. Your doctor will recommend that you stop taking them at least two weeks before your surgery.
Implant placement: Certain implant placement positions, such as sub-glandular or over the muscle, can increase your risk for capsular contracture.
Type of implant: Textured implants are also thought to have an increased risk of capsular contracture.
Before you make any decisions about your choice of implant and placement, discuss these possibilities with your doctor so you can make an informed decision.
Another way to ensure a smooth recovery, free of complications, is to strictly follow your doctor’s instructions after surgery. S/he is the best one to decide what is best for your body.
When it comes to preventing post-surgical complications such as capsular contracture, there are no guarantees that these methods will actually work for you.
So, if you do decide to opt for breast augmentation, remember that this is always a risk you will have to deal with. If you do face this complication and find that your breasts have constricted and become unsightly, you can always opt for revision surgery by a surgeon competent to handle breast revisions. That way you can have the scar tissue removed and still keep your implants.
Seattle breast enhancement surgeons will discuss with each patient which implants best meets their individual needs, including considerations such as implant size, shape, profile, and incision placement. To schedule a consultation, visit http://www.cosmeticsurgeryforyou.com.
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