Question: I need a breast lift and breast implants. I have lost weight and breast fed 2 children. Can I combine these two operations? I’d like not just have one procedure.
Answer:
Yes, it is fine to combine breast implants with a breast lift. However, there are a few things to know first.
First, infections are more common when implants are put in at the time of a lift. We think this is because nipple bacteria can get into the implant pocket. How high is the risk? It is at least 5% – compared to a less than 1% risk of infection when breast implants are done without a lift.
Infection can be discouraging – infected implants must be removed. It then takes 2 – 6 weeks to heal and then another 3 months before new implants can be placed.
Certain things raise the risk:
• Having a large implant (more than 350 cc).
• Working in a hospital or being cared for by someone working in a hospital. This is because most hospital workers carry MRSA infections on their bodies.
• Having pets sleep in your bedroom and/or caring for them right after surgery. Pets carry germs, because they don’t wash their paws!
• Smoking, being obese or diabetic.
Dr. Morgan advises women in these groups to not combine lifts with implants.
Even if you don’t get an infection, plan on a second operation after 6 months or so to improve your result. You may not need this, but be mentally prepared because a breast lift tightens the breast, and implants stretch the breast. Combined surgery means compromises. Larger implants, more breast tightening and revising the implant pocket may be needed.
To learn more – just call us for a personal consultation with Dr. Morgan. She will examine you and discuss everything to help you decide what is best for you.