| IMP | Breast Fold Surgery |
|---|---|
| Procedure | The definition of a breast fold can be improved by creating a scar between the skin and the deep tissues (=inframammary plication). This can be done with either a cut along the proposed crease or with keyhole surgery which removes the intervening fat. Stitches are used to close the wounds and to secure the fold until the scar tissue takes over. I do not use drains routinely. The wounds are repaired with sutures under the skin which do not require removal and dissolve within four months. A support garment following surgery is recommended. |
| Scars | Either along the breast fold or 5mm for keyhole surgery |
| Operation time | 1.5 hours |
| Anaesthesia | Local |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (stretched, thick, abnormal pigmentation, red, retracted etc.), Skin discoloration, Skin cones, Wound separation, Slough, Necrosis, Pain, Nerve injury (Numbness, Weakness), Pneumothorax, Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Aesthetic imperfections (higher risk after subsequent pregnancies / weight changes), Seroma, Contour irregularities, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction. N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Smoking / contraception / flights within 6 weeks of surgery, overweight, high blood pressure, bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), diabetes |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, scar massage, sun protection, support garments |
| Discomfort | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Bruising | 2 - 3 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities 2 weeks, Driving 3 weeks, Physical work & sports & sex 6 weeks, Unrestricted 3 months |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 - 18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Bras |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
