Laser Bra Breast Surgery - Is It Right For You?
Laser bra breast surgery creates an "internal brassiere" from your own breast tissue using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. It is performed with a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation to provide additional support to the breasts.
Are You a Candidate for Laser Bra Breast Surgery?
Most women who are candidates for a traditional breast lift or breast augmentation with implants are also candidates for the laser bra breast surgery procedure. This includes women in good health who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their breasts as a result of weight loss, weight gain, childbearing or aging. Women who are concerned about the loss of nipple sensitivity or ability to breast-feed need not rule out this procedure. The nipple is not detached during laser bra surgery, so breast sensitivity and the ability to breast-feed won't be affected.
Smokers should quit smoking in the weeks before and after surgery, as smoking can affect the body's ability to heal and can increase the risk of complications.
The Laser Breast Bra Procedure
Laser breast bra surgery is performed along with breast lift, breast lift with implants or breast reduction. The exact surgical details vary accordingly. The laser bra surgery takes about two hours and is performed using general anesthesia.
During traditional breast lift and breast reduction, some skin is removed. In laser bra surgery, however, a layer of skin is removed with a CO2 laser and shaped into a bra that is attached to the chest wall. This "internal brassiere" cannot be felt and provides a natural-looking, long-lasting support and lift.
Laser Bra Surgery Recovery
Laser bra surgery recovery varies depending on the surgery it is combined with. Most women are able to return to work within seven days. Compression garments can speed healing and minimize swelling.
Some pain and bruising are to be expected and can be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor. Your surgeon may also insert drains in your incisions to help remove excess fluids. He or she will provide you with detailed instructions on how to clean and empty your drains and how to change your surgical dressings.
You should be able to perform most everyday activities after three weeks, but heavy lifting involving the chest muscles should be avoided for six weeks.
The risks of laser bra breast surgery are the same as those of other breast surgeries, including infection, bleeding and excessive scarring. These complications can be minimized by carefully following your surgeon's pre- and postoperative instructions.
Laser Bra Breast Surgery Cost
The cost of laser bra breast surgery will depend on what procedure it is paired with. Laser bra surgery adds little, if anything, to the quoted cost of breast lift, breast reduction and breast augmentation. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will provide you with an estimate based on your surgery. The cost of these procedures varies greatly from surgeon to surgeon and is based on many factors, including geographic location. For example, practices based in densely populated urban areas charge higher fees because their overhead is higher and their services are in greater demand.
If cost is an impediment, consider financing options. Many surgeons offer plans that allow you to make monthly payments. In addition, several medical finance companies offer loans specifically for elective medical procedures.
Choosing a Board Certified Breast Surgeon
Laser bra breast surgery should be performed by a board-certified surgeon with experience performing all types of breast enhancement procedures. Ask to see before and after pictures and to talk with another individual who has had laser bra surgery at the same practice. Start that search now.
