In The Months Ahead

Your body will go through many changes, most very subtle. You will feel phantom pains, tingles and warm sensations, especially in the area around the incisions. Your collagen is networking to form scar tissue and to heal from this elective trauma. Numbness may be very apparent at first, and continue after several months. Be patient.

After your initial postoperative appointments (usually within the first 3 weeks), you will be expected to make additional postoperative visits. Some surgeons want to see you at your 1 month, 2 month, 3 month and 6 month marks. Others want to see you at 1 month, 4 month and 6 month marks. Some suggest the 6 month or 1 year marks. And some, never again. Ask about your surgeon's policy beforehand, and inquire about post-op check up charges. Some surgeons charge for a quick 10-minute check up, some do not.

The scars are usually at their worst around 3 months post-op. Remember, in most cases, scars will worsen before they improve. They will be at their reddest usually up to the third and fourth month and fade thereafter. Know this beforehand, accept it and you won't have any unpleasant surprises. Using scar treatments such as silicone gel sheeting, serums and Steri-Strips early on can help fade and flatten your scars significantly.

Also there is the possibility that your scars may have stretched due to poor elasticity or increased pressure on the incision line, or the areolae may have stretched or become asymmetrical. Wearing a proper fitting bra can assist during the scar tissue maturation process. Proper support is always essential in keeping breasts perky.