Is my doctor being unprofessional?

Question

I had a unilateral breast lift yesterday and I am currently in excuriatinf pain. My next appointment with a nurse is in 16 days. I was told to take off the bandages myself and then buy steristrips at the drugstore and then to put those on if my old ones fall off. The next appointment with my actual dr. Is 2 months after my procedure. I am in really bad pain and I feel like my bandages are too tight. I was told to wait 3 days to take them off. I feel scared and hopeless. Is this normal?

Ajay Mahajan, MD, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Normally, wounds take about two weeks to heal and I tend to leave dressings undisturbed for this period in my patients and see them at the end of this time for the first time. However, I make it very clear to the patient that if there are any issues, they need to come back and see me sooner. You are no doubt having a lot of pain and it is important for your surgeon to see you to ensure that there are no complications following your surgery. I would rather see my patient to reassure them if there is no problem, than assume that there is no problem.

David Rosenstein, MD · Answer

Hi
Every Dr. does things differently. I see my patients 1,2, or 3 days post-op for a quick look to make sure everything is going well. If at anytime there is a question or issue they can speak to my staff or myself and the appropriate steps follow whether its just instructions or an appointment sooner. I would contact your doctors office if you feel like there is a problem I would think they would fit you in sooner if something doesnt seem right. Even if you just need a little reassurance. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Best wishes!

David Graham, MD · Answer

Worsening pain in the first few days after surgery is normal, however, on occasion this can signify a real problem. If you are concerned then you should call your Plastic Surgeon's office and request further guidance. If you were my patient I would have you take off the dressing to ensure that you weren't developing a hematoma or other issue. Afterwards, if there were ANY question I would offer to see you in my office that day, or the next day. Don't feel like you're being unreasonable or like you are imposing on your surgeon. You paid good money for your surgery and deserve excellent postoperative care.

Is my doctor being unprofessional?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is my doctor being unprofessional?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.