Our Summary

This research paper looked at various studies conducted from 1965 to 2021 to understand how patient safety and quality can be improved in cosmetic breast surgeries. The researchers found that there were conflicting views on whether antibiotics should be used to prevent infections during such surgeries. They found that tools that can help identify patients who may be at a higher risk during cosmetic surgeries might be beneficial. They also discovered that a specific type of anesthesia called tumescent local anesthesia could be significantly beneficial for these procedures. The use of drains to reduce complications like blood collection or fluid accumulation, however, didn’t seem to be very beneficial. The researchers concluded that more studies are needed to reduce infections and other complications associated with breast implants, including a rare type of cancer and a condition where scar tissue forms around the implant.

FAQs

  1. What were the main findings of the research on improving patient safety and quality in cosmetic breast surgeries?
  2. What is the researchers’ stance on the use of antibiotics and drains in cosmetic breast surgeries?
  3. What further research is suggested based on the findings of this study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient considering cosmetic surgery is to thoroughly research and choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in the specific procedure they are interested in. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and openly communicate their goals and concerns with their surgeon. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions and attending follow-up appointments are essential for optimal results and minimizing complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cosmetic surgery are those who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure, and have a specific concern or dissatisfaction with a particular aspect of their appearance. Common reasons for seeking cosmetic surgery include improving self-esteem, correcting physical abnormalities, and reversing signs of aging.

Specific patient populations that may be recommended for cosmetic surgery include:

  1. Patients who have experienced significant weight loss and have excess skin that cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone.
  2. Patients who have asymmetrical facial features or body parts that they wish to correct.
  3. Patients who have scars or deformities resulting from accidents, injuries, or medical conditions.
  4. Patients who are looking to enhance their physical appearance for personal or professional reasons.
  5. Patients who have congenital abnormalities or genetic traits that they wish to address through surgery.

It is important for patients considering cosmetic surgery to undergo a thorough evaluation by a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if they are good candidates for the procedure. Patients should also have realistic expectations about the potential risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as the recovery process and expected outcomes.

Timeline

Timeline of a patient’s experience before and after cosmetic surgery:

Before surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential risks.
  2. Pre-operative assessment to ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Discussion of surgical options, including type of procedure, implant size, and incision location.
  4. Signing of consent forms and discussion of post-operative care instructions.
  5. Pre-operative preparation, including fasting before surgery and arranging for transportation to and from the surgical facility.

During surgery:

  1. Administration of anesthesia and commencement of the surgical procedure.
  2. Monitoring of vital signs and patient comfort throughout the surgery.
  3. Completion of the procedure, including placement of implants and closure of incisions.

After surgery:

  1. Recovery in a post-operative care unit, with monitoring of vital signs and pain management.
  2. Discharge home with instructions for care, including medication management, wound care, and activity restrictions.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  4. Gradual return to normal activities and exercise, following the surgeon’s guidance.
  5. Long-term follow-up to monitor the results of the surgery and address any complications that may arise.

Overall, the patient’s experience before and after cosmetic surgery involves careful planning, preparation, and post-operative care to ensure a successful outcome and minimize risks.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
  2. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider?
  3. How many times have you performed this specific procedure and what is your success rate?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used and what are the potential side effects?
  5. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  6. Can you show me before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone this procedure?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of?
  8. What is the cost of the procedure and are there any financing options available?
  9. What is your policy on revisions or touch-up procedures if I am not satisfied with the results?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative instructions or precautions that I should follow to ensure a successful outcome?

Reference

Authors: Prabhu N, McGuire C, Hong P, Bezuhly M. Journal: J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2022 Nov;75(11):4180-4190. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.06.099. Epub 2022 Jun 28. PMID: 36123255