Male to female breast surgery is a popular procedure that plastic surgeons are often asked to perform. This type of surgery involves reshaping the chest area and adding implants to create a more feminine look. While many people are excited to undergo this transformative procedure, it is important to understand the potential risks involved. In this blog post, plastic surgeons explain the complications associated with male to female breast surgery. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman provides male to female breast surgery to patients in Cleveland, Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Lyndhurst, OH, and surrounding locations.
Excessive bleeding
One of the potential complications of male to female breast surgery is excessive bleeding. Cosmetic surgery, including breast augmentation, always carries a risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. In some cases, this can be severe and require a transfusion or further surgery to stop the bleeding.
To minimize the risk of excessive bleeding, patients should avoid taking certain medications and supplements before surgery. These may include blood thinners, aspirin, and herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba or garlic. Patients should also inform their surgeon of any bleeding disorders they may have or a family history of excessive bleeding.
During surgery, the surgeon will take steps to minimize bleeding, such as using electrocautery and carefully dissecting the tissue. However, if bleeding does occur, the surgeon may need to apply pressure or use other methods to stop it.
It is important to note that while excessive bleeding is a potential complication, it is rare. Patients can minimize the risk by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in performing male to female breast surgery. The surgeon will also provide detailed instructions for pre- and post-operative care to minimize the risk of complications.
Infection
One of the most common complications that can occur with any cosmetic surgery, including breast augmentation, is infection. When undergoing male to female breast surgery, the incision sites are susceptible to bacterial infections that can cause swelling, pain, and redness. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed and the surgery postponed until the infection has cleared up.
To prevent infections, plastic surgeons may prescribe antibiotics to be taken before and after surgery, as well as recommend proper post-operative care, including keeping the incision site clean and dry. Infections are rare, but they can occur, so it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s guidelines to ensure that you heal quickly and with minimal complications.
In some cases, if an infection is left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, including a potentially life-threatening condition called sepsis. This is why it’s crucial to watch out for signs of infection and contact your plastic surgeon immediately if you suspect something is wrong.
Overall, while infection is a potential risk involved with male to female breast surgery, it’s essential to remember that plastic surgeons take every possible precaution to ensure your safety. By following their instructions and being mindful of your recovery process, you can reduce your risk of complications and achieve the best possible results from your surgery.
Anesthesia risks
Undergoing any kind of surgery comes with inherent risks, and breast augmentation surgery is no different. One major risk associated with breast surgery, and cosmetic surgery in general, is the use of anesthesia.
Anesthesia is used during surgery to put the patient to sleep, and is administered by an anesthesiologist. While most patients tolerate anesthesia without any issues, there are certain risks that patients should be aware of.
One potential risk is a negative reaction to the anesthesia itself. This could include an allergic reaction or other adverse effects such as nausea, dizziness, or breathing problems. Patients who have a history of adverse reactions to anesthesia should make sure to inform their surgeon prior to undergoing surgery.
Another potential risk of anesthesia is the possibility of overdosing. While rare, this can happen if too much anesthesia is given during the procedure. The anesthesiologist is responsible for closely monitoring the patient’s vital signs during surgery to prevent this from happening.
It’s important to note that the risk of anesthesia is generally low, and most patients are able to undergo breast augmentation surgery without any complications. However, it’s important for patients to be aware of the risks and to work closely with their surgeon to ensure that they are in good health and an appropriate candidate for surgery.
Scarring
Another risk of male to female breast surgery is the possibility of scarring. While scars are inevitable in any type of surgery, the location and size of the scars can be a concern for patients who undergo breast surgery.
In some cases, scarring may be more pronounced if the surgeon has to create a larger incision to insert the breast implants. Patients who are prone to scarring may be at a higher risk for developing keloids, which are raised, thick scars that can be difficult to treat.
To minimize scarring, patients can follow post-operative instructions given by their surgeon, such as avoiding smoking, following a healthy diet, and avoiding direct sunlight on the incision site. They can also use specialized creams and ointments to help reduce the appearance of scars.
It’s important for patients to discuss scarring risks with their surgeon during the consultation process, as well as their expectations for scarring after the surgery. With proper care and management, patients can minimize scarring and achieve their desired breast appearance.
Implant rupture
One of the risks of male to female breast surgery is the possibility of implant rupture. This can happen due to various reasons such as physical trauma, compression, or implant wear and tear over time. It can be a painful experience and requires immediate medical attention.
In the case of implant rupture, patients may experience swelling, redness, and tenderness in the breast area. It’s essential to note that breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime and may need to be replaced at some point in the future. This is why it’s important to have regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon to monitor the health of your implants.
To reduce the risk of implant rupture, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-surgical instructions carefully. You may be advised to avoid certain activities such as heavy lifting and rigorous exercise for several weeks after the surgery. It’s also crucial to wear a supportive bra and avoid sleeping on your stomach or putting pressure on your chest area.
If you experience any symptoms of implant rupture, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further complications and even permanent damage. A plastic surgeon may need to perform surgery to remove the damaged implant and replace it with a new one.
While the risk of implant rupture exists with any breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to remember that this is a rare occurrence. Most patients have a successful recovery and enjoy the results of their male to female breast surgery. By choosing an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon and following their post-operative instructions, you can minimize the risks and have a safe and successful surgery.
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