Melissa’s Blog: Patient Responsibility
October 11th, 2010
Dr. Bashioum has provided me with an extensive packet of information that covers preparations for surgery, as well as after-care instruction. He does this in an effort to assure the very best surgical results. So I’m very busy preparing for my before and after patient responsibilities.
One of my responsibilities at hand is to schedule a pre-operative physical evaluation. Because Dr. Bashioum’s goal is to provide me with exceptional medical care and in doing so, he insists on having the medical evaluation and report completed by my primary care physician within the two weeks prior to my scheduled surgery. He told me that in his practice, he limits elective cosmetic surgery to healthy patients. So, some of the items that are included in this evaluation are to check my medical history, review and compile a list of any allergies, medications and past surgeries. I can also expect a complete physical exam, a check of vital signs like heart and lungs, etc. Barring any unforeseen health problems. My upcoming blog entries will include video clips that will be filmed on the night before the big day. My very first reflections in the recovery room after my surgery, will also be filmed. Check back to see my results. You’ll have a unique opportunity to watch my surgery, follow my progress and read about the conclusion of my journey!
Size Matters
October 6th, 2010
Melissa is not alone in being confused about what size implant to choose. It is amazing to me how often women say that wish they were larger after having breast enlargement surgery. This happens in spite of the fact that we tell prospective patients that many women express this desire after surgery. To help eliminate this problem, we have patients try on “sizing” implants prior to their surgery, sometimes they try on the sizers during multiple office visits. In spite of our best efforts, more than a few women still express regret about the size they picked and wish they were larger. Some patients choose to act on their desires and have a second surgery to be larger. This factor accounts for many of the women having a secondary breast enlargement surgery. My wife attributes this occurrence to the “diamond theory.” Once you get used to a diamond ring or earrings- it’s most often tempting to want something bigger. The size of diamonds seem to shrink when you get used to wearing them everyday!
Here are some reasons why I think some patients may experience this size envy. Immediately following surgery, there is a significant amount of swelling. This fullness can often be misinterpreted as the final size. As swelling resolves, patients may now perceive a reduction in size. This perception can lead to a disappointment in breast size. During the healing period, the breasts also take on a more natural appearance, which may contribute to a feeling of reduction in overall size.
Finally, women incorporate their new breast size into their body image very, very quickly. I have many patients tell me they forget to list their surgery when asked by other physicians regarding personal history of past surgeries. This new body image can occur as soon as six weeks following a breast augmentation procedure. Because there are only small scars after surgery, there is little or no reminder of the actual procedure and it is often likely to be simply dismissed.
For patients that do decide to increase their implant size, replacing them with larger ones is extremely straight forward, but a waiting period is needed to assure safety of the second procedure. Most patients have little or no pain after the replacement. They usually have a quick recovery and are generally pleased with the results. So, if size really matters- only you are the final judge.
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