Lombard Doctors

Saline Breast Implant Area Sore is It Leaking?

I had breast mastectomy due to breast cancer in 2006. The right one has been sore and I noticed a small lump (ingrown hair?) on the right side. My doctor said that it was most likely a saline breast implant leak. If it's leaking, it would be a small leak because it isn't that noticeable. I'm worried that the cancer could be back and that is what the lump is. I was just checked and was cancer free in August. Thanks.

If you are feeling a lump in your breast it is important for your surgeon to specifically evaluate this.  A leaking saline implant will not cause a saline "bubble" once it has leaked out because the body absorbs the saline.  The implant shell might fold on itself creating a palpable bump but your breast would likely be flatter due to loss of the saline fluid from the implant.  I would definitely recommend your surgeon examine you to workup any questionable mass.  I hope this informaiton is helpful.

Ronald H. Stefani Jr, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

I Had a Tummy Tuck, Hernia Repair and Lipo Suction 5 Months Ago Can I Start Exercising Now?

If you had repair of  a hernia along with a tummy tuck it is important to allow the abdominal muscular tissues to heal completely to yield a solid result.  I usually restrict my patients from any type of aggressive abdominal muscle exercises for 3 months (eg abdominal crunches).  At 5 months you are most likely able to exercise but as always check first with your surgeon to be sure there are no individual reasons he would like you on a different time table.  I hope this information is helpful.

Ronald H. Stefani Jr, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

What Are the Benefits of Having a Mommy Makeover Bra Lift on 40-year-old Breasts?

Is it advisable to combine a bra lift with other mommy makeover procedures at the same time/same surgery? 

A breastlift procedure is designed to lift and help reposition the breast and nipple to a more elevated and youthful position.  Post pregnance breasts can often shrink and droop.  The lift helps to reshape the breast to a more rounded, projected shape.  The benefit corrects the sagging of the breast.  Many times a breast implant is added to the procedure either immediately or as a second stage to help replace lost volume and enhance upper breast fullness.  I hope this information is helpful.

Ronald H. Stefani Jr, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon