1 month post-op appointment blues... do I have to go? (photo)

Question

Hi, I had a breast augmentation on the 18th December. Since then, I haven't seen my surgeon and he just cancelled my one month post operative appointment. I cannot reschedule for another month due to work constraints, is it imperative that I go? I feel like he hasn't tried to work with me to get a new appointment set up and that I'm not important to him. I have included a picure I took at 4 weeks post op.

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  In my practice I want to have a great rapport with my patients and I prefer to see my patients at one week and then again several weeks to months later.  If you are feeling well, no fevers, and are generally pleased with the results there is no urgency to a physician exam.  A physician would want to ensure the patient is doing well and is satisfied with the results.  Good luck.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

he first weeks can be really difficult– physically and especially emotionally after any cosmetic surgery and breast augmentation is no exception Assuming your surgery went well this may be a normal reaction. Although several factors may be involved causing this including underlying stress, medications, psychological tendencies, etc - many women experience a sequence of emotional feelings "Emotional Rollercoaster" following aesthetic surgery - but it does pass. Having a partner, family member , or friend who is supportive can help this process.The stages of emotional ups and downs if understood in advance can help you stay calm and get you through this process more quickly.Phase 1 – Being Out of ItSwelling and discomfort is most severe over the first few days after breast augmentation. Pain medications also can make you disoriented and emotional.Phase 2 – Mood SwingsHaving just had breast augmentation you are adjusting to a sudden change in your appearance with much anticipation.. The presence of bruising, swelling, and edema, your breasts aren't going to be look like the final outcome. Mood swings especially sadness, worry and depression are common.You may even ask: "What have I done?" or think that "I never should have done it" Phase 3 Being over criticalDuring the second week you will probably be feeling a lot better. The edema (swelling) and muscle cramping/spasms if implants were under the muscle will be decreasing and stiches out.. Because of anticipation it is natural for you to look critiacally at your new breasts worrying about symmetry, scars, and so on. . So; it's normal to wonder if you acheived your goal and "what you paid for" . This is too soon to tell and most concerns are resolved with time. Phase 4 Happy at lastFinally, about week 3 or so, you will probably start liking how you look and are feeling much better.. You may be in the mood to buy your new bra to check out the size difference, check out some bathing suits or tops to show off your new figure and show off.Larry Nichter, MD, MS, FACS

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear that your surgeon is not making your feel cherished. Personally, I keep in very close contact with my patients because I want to know that they are healing properly. Still, you should keep your post op appointment as it is important to have your recovery assessed in person. And share your concerns with your surgeon. He should know how he's made you feel. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

You should absolutely see your surgeon.  No one on this site can perform and in-person examination on you to make certain that there is no capsule forming, they cannot discuss with you your satisfaction, give you an appropriate face-to-face feedback, and further instructions based upon what was found intraoperatively.Your one-month follow-up is the appropriate time for all of these things, and you certainly should not disappear after only being seen once. Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Jeffrey Ridha, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Having appointments canceled on you can certainly be frustrating, but follow-up is important, especially to ensure that the implants settle into the correct position, and that there are no issues.  I would recommend communicating your frustration to your surgeon's office, and they will hopefully respond appropriately, which will both put you at ease, and give them a chance to right the situation. Best Wishes.

Nathan Kludt, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I'm sorry you are having such difficulty seeing your doctor. It is very important that you are able to follow up with your surgeon on a regular basis, especially in the early postoperative period, in order to address any of your concerns and be sure that you are progressing and healing appropriately. It is impossible to assess your healing process based on photos alone and you should be seen for a follow up exam. Best of luck, Dr. Kludt

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. Yes it is imperative that you see your board-certified plastic surgeon at least one more time after your breast augmentation to ensure adequate and thorough follow up. Making sure you are doing well and are satisfied with the results. Your surgeon must examine your breasts to avoid any complications, making sure implants are dropping and that you do not have a capsule as well as the need to demonstrate proper massage exercises. Call back and express your concerns. Best of luck. Dr. Michael Omidi.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

YOU MUST BE SEEN! You need to adjust your schedule so you have at least 1 follow up. Appears you are high riding with wider separation>>>>>>

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Gemao,Thanks for your question and for the one photo.I usually follow up with my breast augmentation patients aat 5-7 days, two weeks and then one moth.  There are always questions and concerns as well as the need to demonstrate proper massage exercises.  From the one photo, it seems your right breast is not as full medially at the bottom.  This may just be due to the angle of the photos or the selfie where you flexed your right chest.If there are no asymmetry concerns, fever, redness, asymmetrical pain etc, then there is no urgency for a follow up.Best of luck.Dr. T

Justin B. Maxhimer, MD, FACS · Answer

I can't stress the doctor-patient relationship enough.  You both should have good communication lines open and if you feel that they are not addressing your concerns or accommodating your schedule then you need to let them know.  You don't want to get "lost to follow up"

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