Breast Reconstruction with breast implants

The operation in short

This form of breast reconstruction, which is usually done in two stages, involves inserting a Silicone Implant under the pectoralis major muscle and skin. An expanding balloon (tissue dilator) is initially placed under the muscle, and is then gradually filled in with a series of saline injections, in order to stretch the skin of the breast enough. Then, after three to six months, the dilator is removed and a permanent Silicone implant, which is suitable in size and shape is inserted.

In recent years, breast reconstruction with the addition of a silicone implant can be done in one step thanks to skin-sparing mastectomy, thus giving a more natural result. Of course, in order to perform the surgery, the use of special materials is required in addition to the insert, in order for the insert to be supported internally.

Advantages of using silicone inserts

• When this specific operation is performed as a primary breast reconstruction only requires a small additional operation on top of the mastectomy, thus avoiding scarring in other parts of the body In most patients the addition of a
• silicone implant will have a satisfactory aesthetic effect and the recovery period from this operation is relatively fast.

 Disadvantages of using silicone inserts

• After the operation, one breast will not show any ptosis (shagging) and, therefore, it may look less natural compared to the other breast The operations that the patient undergoes are two at the same time and, consequently, the recovery time will be longer. There are some parameters associated with the addition of silicone implants, including the formation of a “capsule” caused by the implant in the breast (usually seen in 30% of patients) that may be accompanied by pain and discoloration of the new breast, as well as a small risk of inflammation leading to implant loss.
• Over time there is no symmetry in the breasts as the insert does not change in shape or size in the same way as a natural breast.

Medication

In our clinic, a complete medical history is always taken before each surgery. As a precaution, over-the-counter medicines or herbal products should not be taken before and for 3 days after surgery. It is also considered necessary to avoid taking non-steroid, anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin (salospir), ibuprofen (Nurofen), diclofenac and any other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drug.

Smoking

If you are a smoker you should try to stop smoking for at least 6 weeks before and 1 week after the surgery as this will dramatically reduce the chances of postoperative complications and help achieve the best possible result.

Recovery after breast reconstruction surgery with a silicone implant

Duration of hospitalization

The patient is usually required to stay in the Hospital for 5 days.

Duration

Depending on the type of operation, duration may vary from 1 to 2 hours.

Mobilization time

Patients may need to stay in bed for a day but the use of a bladder catheter is not required.

Within one to two days they will be able to move, while after a week they can walk without feeling any discomfort. After four weeks of recovery they will be able to exercise, while from the sixth to the eighth week they will have fully recovered and will return to work.

Driving

Patients who have undergone breast augmentation with silicone implants should ideally avoid driving until they are completely free of any discomfort or restriction, in order to be able to make a sudden movement, such as braking, freely and without any pain. This parameter is proposed so that patients can secure coverage from their insurance company in case of accident. Thus, it may take up to two weeks for them to fully recover. There are of course patients who feel able to drive after 1-2 days, but always at their own risk.

Bandages

Patients will wear some bandages on the chest that should remain for two weeks, while it is recommended to have with them in the hospital a soft (without underwire) sports bra which will be the size of the new breast size, will be comfortable and at the same time will provide support. Patients will need to have two bras at home that can be worn one after another. After eight weeks patients will be able to wear a regular bra with an underwire which will have to be adjusted to the new shape and size of the breast.

Complications

There is a 3% chance of fluid collection as well as inflammation in the restored breast, which should be treated immediately. As with any silicone implant surgery, there is a 30% chance of the incision hardening (due to hardening of the capsule), as well as a small degree of asymmetry with the other breast.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.