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5 Questions to Ask During Your Breast Reconstruction Consultation
Breast reconstruction can help you feel more comfortable with your body and confident in your appearance. This is a serious medical procedure, but the right surgeon can give you qualified breast surgery consultation advice and soothe your worries. During your appointment, there are a few critical breast surgery questions to ask.
What are Your Qualifications?
Choose a plastic surgeon that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This rigorous body examines each surgeon’s qualifications, including past procedures and medical training. To remain board certified, surgeons have to comply with regulations that include strict oral and written exams, as well as many hours of hands-on experience.
Dr. Boutrous, the founder of Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery, understands the importance of professional instruction and qualifications. As a surgical textbook author and renowned training specialist, he and his team are uniquely qualified to give you the highest quality results.
How Much Will My Procedure Cost?
Depending on your insurance plan, you may need to pay for a deductible, a copay, or co-insurance. Determining your financial responsibility is important before booking your procedure. The office staff at Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery can help explain your insurance coverage, as well as offer payment options.
How Long Will My Recovery Take?
Proper recovery from your breast reconstruction surgery is critical to not only the final results, but also to prevent any complications from a major surgical procedure. The amount of time it takes you to recover will depend on the type of procedure you have done.
Expect to have drains from the surgery to collect any excess fluid. Keep an eye on the incision sites for redness or swelling, as these can be signs of an infection.
Most women begin feeling better after a couple of weeks and are able to return to normal activities after a couple of months. If you engage in vigorous exercise, be sure to tell your surgeon the types of activity you do and how long/ how often. Follow their advice about when you can resume limited exercise and when you’re able to fully engage in your previous routine.
What Will My Breasts Look Like After My Surgery?
Surgeons with many years of experience can offer you a computer generated representation of the end result. You may also be able to view before-and-after photos of women whose procedures are similar to yours.
Expect to swell and bruising that can last for up to 8 weeks following your surgery. Your breasts may appear stiff at first, but as your body heals and adjusts, the breasts will look more natural.
You may have small scars after the procedure, but the talented, board-certified and board-eligible surgeons at Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery have the experience necessary to minimize the scars under your breast or along your underarm.
How Can I Best Prepare For My Surgery?
If you are a smoker, quitting smoking before your surgery can help improve how your body handles the procedure itself as well the speed and intensity of your recovery. Other ways to prepare for surgery include no heavy lifting (greater than five to ten pounds) and no sleeping on your chest/stomach until your plastic surgeon approves.
Need More Information? Contact Us!
When you’re ready for your breast reconstruction surgery, the talented physicians at My Houston Surgeons, under the leadership of Dr. Sean Boutros, are here to give you the health and confidence you deserve.
