Dr Kohout's Plastic Surgery Blog

Rhinoplasty is a form of plastic surgery that deals specifically with the nose. Surgeons are able to change the size and shape of the nose, remove bumps and correct the nasal tip. Whether you want to find out more about nose reshaping surgery for cosmetic reasons or because the shape of your nose is making it difficult to breathe, there are a number of considerations to make when deciding on rhinoplasty.

Why have rhinoplasty? The nose is one of the most prominent features on the face, making it a focal point. If a person feels uncomfortable because of the shape and size of their nose, and it’s really having an impact on their self-esteem, then rhinoplasty might be a viable option. Some individuals also require rhinoplasty if their nose is crooked and they are having difficulty breathing through one of their nostrils. It’s also a surgery that is undertaken when physical trauma of some kind has caused damage to the nose.

Who is eligible for rhinoplasty? Unlike other forms of plastic surgery, there is no upper age limit for having your nose reshaped. As long as you are a healthy individual, surgery will in most cases be an option for you.

Recovering from rhinoplasty
Once you’ve had the surgery you’ll be able to get back to work and regular activities within approximately 10 days. Most people who have rhinoplasty don’t experience too much pain after surgery, but if you are in pain your surgeon will be able to prescribe pain medication for you. There are also a number of important steps your surgeon will tell you about in order to reduce pain and ensure you heal as quickly as possible.

Here are a few tips you’ll be advised of during recovery:

1. Avoid touching the nose, and sniffing and blowing your nose.
2. Try to sleep on your back - a recliner chair can be really helpful for this.
3. Avoid lifting heavy items or bending over, as this can cause swelling and could also cause bleeding.

Choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon When choosing the right plastic surgeon for your rhinoplasty, you want to make sure that you are in the hands of an experienced professional who has a long history with rhinoplasty. You want to feel comfortable and confident with your surgeon that they will be able to achieve the results that you want. Consulting a professional plastic surgeon who specialises in rhinoplasty is the best way to find out if they can achieve the outcomes you are hoping for through nasal reshaping surgery.

More info on this procedure:
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/rhinoplasty
www.webmd.com/beauty/rhinoplasty
https://www.realself.com/Rhinoplasty/Nose-job

If you’re considering breast enhancement surgery, also known as breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty, it’s important that you have a general understanding of the procedure. Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery in which silicone or saline implants are inserted under the skin in order to create larger, firmer breasts. Once you have had a consultation with your surgeon, you’re ready to take the next step: choosing between silicone and saline breast implants. They both have an outer silicone shell, but they differ in material and consistency. To help you choose what is best for you, the following will look at the differences between silicone and saline implants.

Silicone implants

Silicone implants are pre-filled with silicone gel, which is a thick and sticky fluid that feels like human fat. The majority of women feel that silicone gel-filled breast implants look and feel more like natural breast tissue. Silicone gel-filled implants are used in more than 99% of breast augmentation procedures in Australia. A new, cohesive form of silicone gel (which sticks together in a predetermined shape) has been developed and is being used in new generation implants. The gel’s cohesiveness reduces the risk of dispersal in the event that the implant ruptures, as well as lowers the risk of visible implant rippling. It also maintains the shape of the breast more effectively than saline implants, particularly in the implant’s upper pole. Cohesive gel implants are available in both the anatomical (teardrop) and round shape.

Saline implants

These are empty when inserted beneath the skin and are then filled with sterile saltwater once they’re in place. Saline implants are readily available, but are no longer commonly used at the moment in Australia. They are, however, safe - should the implant rupture, the saline is released and then absorbed by the body. The design of saline-filled implants has significantly improved, so the approximate incidence of rupture and deflation is only 1.5% compared to 5% previously. Although they feel firmer than silicone implants, many women prefer saline-filled implants because of the saline’s inherent safety. They’re also available in either the round or teardrop shape.

Implant shapes - round versus anatomical (teardrop)

Regarding breast implant shapes, round implants will give you more full and higher-looking breasts. They also will not rotate within the breast. On the other hand, the anatomical (teardrop) shape more closely resembles a breast’s natural shape and will thus give you a more natural and softer appearance with a naturally sloping upper pole. Your surgeon can discuss in more detail the advantages of each with you, but the implant shape you choose will depend on what you prefer. Also, during the consultation with your surgeon for breast augmentation, a decision will be made in regards to the amount of breast augmentation that will best meet your needs.

Other useful information

Here’s more information to help you choose which breast implant is best for you:

• You can reduce the amount of gel that might bleed from a silicone gel-filled implant by having “low bleed” shells that contain a barrier membrane in your breast implants.
• Having silicone breast implants doesn’t interfere with early tumour detection. You can self-examine your breasts, undergo mammography (i.e. regular breast cancer screening, using the Eklund technique or submuscular implantation), or have an ultrasound to examine breast tissue.
• Calcification of the implant capsule will also not interfere with tumour detection when undergoing mammography.
• Both silicone and saline breast implants do not increase your risk of getting breast cancer following surgery.
• Silicone materials in breast implants aren’t toxic or teratogenic and therefore won’t affect your reproductive system.
• Silicone gel-filled and saline-filled implants don’t cause immunological disorders or connective tissue diseases.
• The elastomer shells of both silicone and saline breast implants are strengthened using fumed silica, a form of amorphous silica. This means that it won’t cause any biological effects.
• Silicone in breast milk can be found in women with and without breast implants, so it shouldn’t be considered an issue relevant to the safety of both silicone and saline implants.

The breast implant type you choose will directly affect your overall look. Whether you want a subtle change or a more dramatic difference, there’s a breast implant that’s right for you. Your surgeon may recommend one implant over the other for best results, based on the anatomy of your breast, your body type and other factors. In the end, however, it’s up to you to choose between the two. What’s important is that after the surgery, you are happy with the result, and more confident too.If you have any question feel free to contact our Team in Sydney or visit http://www.drmarkkohout.com.au/breast-augmentation

The term ‘genioplasty’ refers to the reduction and addition of material to the chin. Using surgical implants, chin augmentation can alter the underlying structure of the face, providing better balance to the facial features. Genioplasty can also involve the manipulation of the jaw bone using a sliding technique. Correction of chin under-projection, over-projection, asymmetries or vertical-height abnormalities can significantly alter a person’s profile and the shape of their face, improving overall appearance.

How is genioplasty performed?

Several surgical options exist for the treatment of chin deformities. The two most popular procedures are alloplastic chin implants and sliding genioplasty.

Alloplastic chin implants

Alloplastic implants use materials such as silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene and polyester mesh to alter the shape of the chin. A chin implant can be used for subtle advancements of 5 mm or less and is placed via an incision in the skin below the chin. If used for bigger augmentations, pressure could be placed on the bone it is anchored to, meaning long-term failure. It could also move from its original position as a result of gravity and does comes with risk of infection. As the implant is foreign material, it presents a chance of becoming rejected, therefore many surgeons prefer to use sliding genioplasty.

Sliding genioplasty

Sliding genioplasty (also known as osteotomy) can produce face-transforming results thanks to its versatility. A chin can be lengthened or reduced via the mouth, meaning no external skin scars. Essentially, the bone of the chin is divided in such a way that it slides forwards or backwards to lengthen or shorten the chin and jaw. The bone is then secured using a small titanium plate.

Who can genioplasty benefit?

Chin surgery can address a small and deficient chin, can make a shortened face look longer or can reduce a protruding profile. Often, genioplasty will be performed at the same time as cosmetic rhinoplasty to compliment the new shape of the nose and help bring the face into full harmony.

What is the down time?

Patients are generally discharged on the same day of the procedure, providing they rest at home. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes around 45 minutes to complete. There is little pain associated with chin augmentation. You should expect for the first week following surgery to see extensive swelling and moderate bruising. As a result of the swelling you may feel the chin looks “boxy” or “square”, but this will gradually smooth out over a period of two to three weeks. Most people feel comfortable going out within a week and you can return to work after five days. The downtime for sliding genioplasty is slightly longer than the downtime for implants.

What aftercare is involved?

An ice pack should be applied to the area regularly during the first 36 hours and your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to help prevent infection. When sleeping, try to sleep on your back with your head elevated on two pillows for the first two weeks. You will also need to follow a soft diet over this period.

Click here to learn more about Sydney's leading plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Kohout.

You’d be excused for thinking you don’t have the time for cosmetic procedures. A common misconception with plastic surgery is that it involves long spells in waiting rooms and weeks of recovery time. The truth is that often, a procedure can be performed in a matter of hours or even minutes, and you could be back at the office desk before anyone noticed you were gone. With technological advances, plastic surgery procedures are getting quicker and quicker. While faster, there is no compromise on quality and the same effect is still achieved, just in half the amount of time it used to take. These quick procedures are what is referred to as “lunchtime procedures”. Lunchtime procedures include dermal fillers, facial peels, laser skin resurfacing, permanent fillers, UltraShape and wrinkle treatment. They’re fast, effective and can leave you feeling fabulous with very little effort. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are one of the most popular nonsurgical options for reducing and correcting skin problems and facial lines. Also known as “injectables”, dermal fillers fill in the area under the skin, leaving a smooth finish. They are often combined with musclerelaxation injections for the best result. You can receive injections in a number of places on the face, including your smile, frown, smoker’s, marionette and worry lines. You can also use dermal fillers to better define the line of your lips or smooth out crows feet around the eyes. Most patients claim that treatment is painless, although slightly uncomfortable. Depending on your particular needs, this treatment should take around 15-30 minutes. Returning to work should be no problem, but be aware that there may be some reddening to the skin. A good idea is to take some oil-free makeup with you to your appointment to cover any red patches. The effect of this procedure should last 3-6 months. For a more permanent result, enquire about permanent fillers.

Facial peels

Facial peels are a safe and easy way to rejuvenate a tired-looking complexion and correct some of the effects caused by the sun, smoking, alcohol consumption, air conditioning and pollution. A facial peel lightens the pigmentation of the skin, relieving blotching, liver spots, freckles and sun spots. In some cases, mild acne and scarring can also be reduced. To prepare for a facial treatment, you will be required to apply a special skin cream daily for at least four weeks prior to your appointment. This regime will allow for greater absorption by gently encouraging the regeneration process of skin cells and shedding of the thickened, outer layers of the skin. A facial peel is a short process that involves painting a peel solution onto the skin and allowing it to absorb. Skin will feel warm or hot for 5-10 minutes and slightly stingy. Following the procedure, your face will appear flushed and skin may feel tight. Today’s facial peels no longer cause pain or inflammation, but you will need to be picked up from your appointment as you should not drive. The after-effect is similar to sunburn and you should expect some redness and scaling that will end within five days. You must then avoid the sun for at least three months to protect the new fragile skin.

Laser skin resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is a correction process similar to what you get from a facial peel. The results can be outstanding, with fine wrinkles disappearing and deeper lines improving. Blotchy pigmentation and sun spots are removed completely. Laser skin resurfacing removes skin layers with precision and the new skin cells that form during healing give skin a tighter, younger looking appearance. Your doctor may choose to treat wrinkle areas around the eyes, mouth and forehead individually, or treat the entire face. A full face treatment can take up to two hours. Following treatment, your skin will be bandaged for 24 hours and you must then clean treated areas very regularly to prevent scabs from forming. The skin should heal completely within three weeks. If you maintain your skin with regular care, the result of this quick procedure can last for many years.

UltraShape

UltraShape is a non surgical body contouring treatment that delivers instant results that require little maintenance. Essentially, UltraShape breaks down unwanted fat using focused ultrasound energy. UltraShape can melt only a small section of fat in each session, meaning multiple treatments are needed depending on the desired result. Each session takes approximately 1-1-½ hours. No skin tissue is damaged and there is no need for use of anesthesia. Providing a well-balanced diet is followed after treatment, the results should be long lasting.

Wrinkle treatment

Forehead, frown lines and crows feet can be treated using a highly purified preparation to block muscle action and minimise wrinkles. Several injections are needed for each treatment and treatment takes approximately 15 minutes. The effect should last 3-6 months. If you’re looking for a fast pick-me-up, one of these lunchtime procedures could be for you!

According to new Australian research, one in five women are interested in genital surgery. The study found that greater exposure to images of female genitals has led to an increase in women asking for a “designer vagina” and in 351 women surveyed, 17 percent said they would consider labiaplasty. The research When researchers at the school of psychology at Flinders University, South Australia, surveyed 351 women between the age of 18 and 69, they found that 13 percent of women had received negative comments about their genitals. 19 percent of the participants said they had discussed their genital appearance with friends. Of those who were open to undergoing the procedure, a large percentage of the women had high levels of exposure to female genetalia images through television, online, advertising and pornography, leading to dissatisfaction of their own genitalia. The research shows that the stigma once associated with genitalia is dispersing and with greater exposure, comes an increased interest in intimate cosmetic surgery. The study also suggests that the media, romantic partners and friends are influential in shaping women’s perceptions of their own genital appearance and whether or not surgery is for them. The facts According to consultant psychiatrist Dr David Veale, many women in the porn industry have had surgical modification of their labia. When women view porn that involves close ups, they are led to believe that their own genetalia is deformed. The truth is, they have a perfectly normal labia and it is the woman on screen that has been modified. There are several common problems that can make a vagina feel uncomfortable or cause a woman to feel embarrassment:

• Protruding of the inner labia
• Misshapen and non-symmetrical labia
• Change in appearance following childbirth
• A stretched vaginal canal

Why opt for genital surgery? Some women consider surgery to feel better in swimwear or underwear, while others may use surgery to improve confidence in the bedroom. Labiaplasty is the most common form of cosmetic genital surgery and involves reducing the size of the labia so they do not protrude. Not only does the procedure improve overall appearance of the genitals, labiaplasty gives relief from chafing and discomfort by removing excess skin. Labioplasty takes approximately 90 minutes to perform and is commonly selected by women with enlarged labia minora. Most patients prefer the effect of a ‘wedge’ or ‘triangular’ technique over trimming, which was the traditional technique used. While simpler, trimming does not produce the same aesthetic results and can leave sensitive scarring. ‘Wedging’ not only preserves the contour, colour and anatomy of the labia edge, it offers very minimal visibility of the procedure. Vaginoplasty, or vaginal tightening, is another popular cosmetic genital surgery, improving the feel and tightness of the internal area of the vagina. Rather than correct the appearance of genitalia, vaginoplasty tightens and narrows the vaginal canal to improve sexual sensation and satisfaction. Vaginoplasty is commonly considered by women who have experienced muscle weakness with age or seen stretching and “looseness” following childbirth. The surgery takes approximately one hour and a section of the vaginal lining is removed. From there, the muscles are repositioned and tightened. During the process, any tissue that has been stretched or torn during childbirth can also be corrected. Both procedures call for a few days rest and restraint from sex for six weeks. Some patients may suffer slight discomfort and pain in the first week following surgery, but can get back to work within a few days.

 Interested in a FREE Phone Consultation with one of our experts? Please contact us on the contact page of our website or call us Today. Feel free to ask us any questions

 Back to the Hompage

The pressure on young women to look ‘perfect’ has intensified over the last decade, even more so since the arrival of social media. On a daily basis, girls are exposed to photograph after photograph of airbrushed celebrities on sharing sites Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, giving an unrealistic impression of how women should look. Controversial crazes, such as ‘selfies’ and thigh-gap shots have only added to the pressure and as a result, one in five girls has considered plastic surgery by the age of 20. The average age for a first plastic surgery operation is just 21. Plastic surgery’s rise in popularity Plastic surgery first became popular following the First World War, when it was pioneered as a way to repair the damage that soldiers suffered. These days, plastic surgery is widely used to help build self esteem issues. Last year alone, nearly 100,000 teenagers went under the knife, with most patients claiming the surgery was to help deal with low-self esteem. According to one plastic surgeon, the number of teenagers entering his office has risen by 20 percent every year. It’s an issue that many people grapple with, from surgeons and parents to psychologists and the media. Many are worried that people are undergoing plastic surgery too young, but how old is too young? If a child is being severely bullied at school and has negative body image as a result, can plastic surgery help? At what age is plastic surgery appropriate? The key point surgeons look at when determining whether a patient is right for plastic surgery is their emotional maturity along with their physical maturity. Patients must show they have carefully thought about the elected procedure and must be at an age where they have stopped growing. For most procedures, this happens around the age of 18. As a rule, most plastic surgery patients should be 18 years or older, but there are exceptions for certain procedures. Otoplasty (correction of prominent ears) is one such procedure, and can be performed any time from the age of five. This timing also coincides with the start of school, when playground teasing can have damaging effects on the way a child looks at themselves. Laser and chemical peels are another procedure that can be performed before the age of 18. Medical lasers can remove vascular anomalies (birth marks), which again can be the cause of ridicule. The four most popular procedures carried out these days are breast augmentation, nose reshaping, eyelid surgery and liposuction. For each of these procedures, a patient should be at least 18 years of age to allow for completion of growth. The one exception is breast augmentation, which in certain circumstances will be considered earlier. What young patients need to consider Young patients considering plastic surgery must first think very carefully about what they are about to undergo. Breast implants have a finite lifespan and at some point will need replacing. You must be willing to undergo the procedure again later in life. Patients must also consider the adverse effects on breastfeeding and nipple sensation. If considering abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), future pregnancy must be considered and if trying for a baby, cosmeceuticals should be avoided. What surgeons recommend If considering surgery for low-self esteem, you must first look at other ways to improve the way you see yourself. Diet and exercise can help boost negative body image, has inner health benefits and can help stave off early signs of ageing. Patients must be realistic about cosmetic treatments and never fall under a hard sell. Take your time when making decisions and think carefully about your reasonings. Plastic surgery can be excruciatingly painful and should not be undergone lightly, nor be used as a way to keep up with the latest social media trends.

In a society that is obsessed with turning back the clock, it can be hard to decipher between fact and fiction. Here we’ll talk through some of the common myths around anti-ageing and outline the truth behind them. 1. Using too many products in your hair will cause hair loss While it might not look to good if you pile on the hair wax or gel, it won’t cause you to lose hair. This is because hair products don’t penetrate the scalp at a level that would mean they have any real effect on the hair follicle. 2. As you age you should engage in less intense exercise Many people reduce the intensity of their exercise as they age because they are concerned about injury. In actual fact, not exercising is more likely to cause long-term damage to the body than vigorous exercise, which is attributed to improved cardiovascular conditioning and maintaining a healthy weight. 3. Supplements slow down the ageing process Australians spend millions of dollars each year on supplements that are supposed to slow down the ageing process. The fact is, however, that research shows there is no real link between these vitamin tablets and achieving an improved state of health and wellbeing. Instead of taking supplements, take a look at your diet and make sure you are getting all of the nutrients you need through the food that you’re eating. 4. You don’t need sunscreen during the winter months It doesn’t matter where you are and what the weather is like, you need to always wear sunscreen outdoors. UV rays can be just as bad - if not worse - on cloudy days than on sunny days. We all know that sun exposure is one of the biggest contributors for premature ageing, so invest in a quality high protection sunscreen you can wear all year round. 5. If your skin is fairer, you will age faster This is a myth that’s been around for years now, but there is still no scientific proof that fairer skin ages at a faster rate. The only link that can be found is in the increased level of melanin in dark skin. Melanin helps protect your skin from sun damage, and because the darker your skin the more melanin you have, you can understand why many people have concluded that pale skin ages quicker than dark skin. Now you know the real facts about ageing there’s no excuse for not taking charge and treating your body like a temple to ensure your optimal health and fitness into old age.

The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons was founded in 1970. The aim of the ASPS is to protect the integrity of plastic surgery as the peak body for Specialist Plastic Surgeons. This includes both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. Ensuring that all Australians have access to the best plastic surgeons The ASPS prides itself on overseeing and educating the surgeons of Australia in the following ways:

• By upholding and clearly outlining the important professional and ethical standards.
• By hosting the AMC accredited Surgical Education and Training (SET) Program for surgeons.
• Assisting with the promotion of plastic surgery, both cosmetic and reconstructive.

How does a surgeon become a member of the ASPS? To be a member of the ASPS, a surgeon must hold a specialist qualification from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). This is because RACS is the only College for specialist surgical training recognised by the Australian and New Zealand Government through the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and New Zealand Medical Council (NZMC). Each ASPS member must:

• Have undertaken at least 12 years medical and surgical education
• Have completed a minimum of 5 years specialist postgraduate training
• Be a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)

What does it mean to be a specialist plastic surgeon? Specialist plastic surgeons are Commonwealth Government accredited. They are not only trained and qualified to carry out cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in public and private hospitals and in day surgeries, but in Australia the Medical Board stipulates that in order to uphold and use the title “Specialist Plastic Surgeon” one must also be a FRACS approved specialist surgeon in their area of expertise. The benefits of finding a specialist plastic surgeon At present in Australia, any doctor with a medical degree can perform surgery. The difference between a doctor with basic training and a specialist plastic surgeon is extensive surgical education and training, with a minimum of 5 years postgraduate training in their specialised field of surgery. We all know that any form of surgery carries a level of risk. So naturally, if you are putting yourself in the hands of a specialist plastic surgeon you know you are choosing the best surgeon who is trained, qualified and has experience. Dr Mark Kohout is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery and has the training, education and experience you want when looking into plastic surgery for yourself or a loved one. When only the very best will do, you want a speak with a specialist plastic surgeon.

AHA (or alpha hydroxy acid) peels are used on the skin to get rid of wrinkles, dark spots, freckles and uneven pigmentation. After an AHA peel the skin is left refreshed and glowing. Some of the ingredients used in these peels today have been used by women for over 2,000 years. Cleopatra was said to regularly bathe in sour goat’s milk to improve the appearance of her skin, and in today’s AHA peels, lactic acid from sour milk is one of the key ingredients. How do AHA Peels Work? The combination of different ingredients, including naturally occurring acids from fruits such as citric acid from oranges and lemons, malic acid from apples and pears and tartic acid from grapes, works wonders on the skin exfoliating away dead skin cells to reveal fresher, more youthful looking skin. Glycolic acid, which is derived from sugarcane, is also a well-known source of alpha hydroxy acid often used in AHA peels. What are the benefits of AHA Peels? AHA peels can treat a range of different skin imperfections including wrinkles and fine lines, acne scarring, dry spots, skin pigmentation and freckles. AHA peels are often used with other treatments for assisting those with acne. Unlike other treatments, AHA peels are not only for the face, but they can also be used on the neck, arms, hands and chest. For optimal results, some people combine them with microdermabrasion. Professional AHA peels versus DIY solutions You can buy over the counter AHA peels, however the concentration of AHA in these peels is no more than 10% which won’t really have a major impact on the appearance of your skin. Professionals who are trained in using and applying these treatments use AHA peels that are closer to 30%, and certain physicians use AHA peels with a concentration of up to 70%. Getting an AHA peel When you go in for an AHA peel, your skin will first be cleansed before the peel is applied. While the peel is on your skin you may feel a tingling or stinging sensation, and some people experience numbness. All of this is normal and will fade once the peel is taken off. AHA peels are typically not painful and do not require the application of an anesthetic. For a few days after the peel your skin may appear red and some flaking may also occur. The most important thing to remember is to always use a high quality sunscreen after treatment, as during the first week or so after your skin will be hypersensitive to the sun. Many people opt for AHA peels because they are fast and easy to have done, and you can return to your normal daily activities as soon as you leave the clinic. It’s certainly the ideal, effective skin care treatment for busy people.

After having a breast augmentation procedure, it’s important that you follow the advice of your surgeon. They will give you instructions that you should follow to optimise the healing process so you are back to feeling yourself sooner rather than later. Tips for post-operative care after a breast augmentation

• On the evening following surgery, it’s a good idea to get up and walk around a bit. This can help prevent blood clots from forming. This does not mean exercise is advisable. Generally you should only begin to get back into exercising three weeks after your surgery.
• Use ice packs as directed to help reduce swelling.

• To support your breasts and keep them protected, they will be bandaged after surgery. Make sure that you keep your dressings clean and dry.
• Wearing a bra that does not have underwire helps provide support and is critical. Post-surgical bras are also available.
• Take it easy - Following any form of surgery it’s important to rest and allow your body to heal. You will have less energy, which is to be expected.
• Take the antibiotics that your surgeon has prescribed until you’ve completed the entire course.
• Your surgeon will prescribe you with pain medication to manage discomfort. Be aware that it is not advisable to take aspirin or products that contain aspirin for the first 10 days after surgery. If you are wanting to take another form of pain medication, speak to your doctor first.
• When sleeping, you should arrange pillows on your bed so that you are positioned on a smooth incline. It’s important to keep your upper body elevated for a few days after your surgery to aid in the healing process.
• It is not advised that you drink alcohol or drive while taking the pain medication prescribed.

What to expect after surgery

• Sensitivity or numbness - Your scars or nipples may either be hypersensitive or numb after surgery. It is completely normal to experience sensation changes after surgery but these will go back to normal within 3-6 months.
• Some women experience itchiness, which is caused by the nerve endings healing. To relieve this, use ice and skin moisturizers, making sure the lotion does not get into the incision areas.
• Scarring is usually very minor and well hidden under the breast in the crease. For the first few weeks the scars will be pink and firm. Eventually after a few months they will begin to fade. While they will diminish in appearance, they won’t completely disappear.
• It is 100% normal for one breast to heal differently to the other. One may feel more uncomfortable, or swell up more. However, once they are healed they should look the same and sit naturally.

After surgery, your next appointment with your surgeon will be scheduled for 7 to 10 days later to remove your stitches. This is also the best time to ask any questions or raise any concerns you may have.