Breast Augmentation: Signs that you may need a re-do
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In a recent study published in the Journal of Aesthetic Surgery a group of doctors attempted to find out what signs (if any) are there that would indicate a higher chance of returning of a boob job re-do. 177 consecutive cases of primary breast augmentation were studied over the course of 3 years from 2001 to 2004.
The rate of reoperation was still quite low with 8% of the 177 returning to the surgeon for a second round of surgery. Out of the 8%, 35% of the return visits were due to patient preferences (ex/ upgrade to a different implant size). The remaining 65% returned due to complication related reasons.
So is there are there any predictors for a boob job re-do? The study authors found two that stood out in particular:
Simultaneous Mastopexy: If a breast lift was done at the same time there is a 4 time increase in the chance that a return operation will be necessary.
Pre-existing Ptosis: If your breasts droop before going in for augmentation there is a 2 times increase in the probability of a re-do being necessary between degrees of droopiness. Droopiness degrees being measured as mild, moderate and severe. In other words, someone with moderate ptosis is 2 times more likely to have to go in for reoperation than someone with mild ptosis. Along the same logic, one with severe ptosis is 4X more likely to need reoperation than the mild ptosis patient.
Other factors studied that did not prove to be statistically significant indicators of future reoperation were: who was performing the operation, implant type, location of incision, implant placement location, drains, self-massage, vitamin E use, use of a shaping bra, and asymmetries.
References:
- Leo R. McCafferty, Laurie A. Casas, Sandra S. Stinnett, Samuel Lin, Jason Rho and Margaret Skiles, "Multisite Analysis of 177 Consecutive Primary Breast Augmentations: Predictors for Reoperation", Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 29, Issue 3, May-June 2009, Pages 213-220
