Pros and cons of Rapid Recovery breast implants - if I'm a good candidate - I'd definitely prefer local anesthesia!

Question

I'm new to Real Self and in the market for breast implants. I'm FINALLY ready to commit, and am on the hunt for a phenomenal surgeon in my area (Jacksonville, FL). I am the primary caretaker of my children so minimal recovery time is ideal for me. Also I am petrified of general anesthesia. I've been under before, and other than feeling sick and incredibly shaky, I do okay.. but it still scares me. I would absolutely prefer local anesthesia, so I'm intrigued by the Rapid Recovery. Is it worth it?

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..based on your question, the ideal thing is that you have a consultation with a certified plastic surgeon, who sees in person what you really need and explains what the steps would be; since it is difficult to orientate without photos, in the case of anesthesia it would be good to consult that part as well.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.I suggest researching for a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and questions. Ask to speak to the surgeon's anesthetist as well to answer your anesthesia questions. Best of luck!

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

Personally I am a big advocate for implants under muscle, which nearly always needs general anesthesia, for generally a much lower chance of problems post op and a more natural look. In the 1980s and 90's I did these above the muscle under local with sedation. Having done them both ways I have strong feelings. Pick a great surgeon and let them guide you to the best anesthesia for the situation. Good luck.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

Rapid recovery is a marketing term but if done correctly all breast augmentation could be considered rapid recovery.  I don’t think submuscular breast augmentation is reasonable with just local.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concern, however general anesthesia has gotten much safer thanks to significant advances in OR monitoring equipment and medications used. Some cosmetic procedures can be done under straight local, but breast augmentation is not one of them, especially when implants are placed below the muscle. Be certain to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area to greatly increase the chances for the best possible result. Good luck.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

I understand your many concerns, however keep in mind Breast Augmentation is a major surgery. I am  NOT an advocate of local Anesthesia. In my opinion - it adds to the risks and does not allow the Surgeon to focus on his/her best work. Most place who offer local for Breast Augmentation  may not be Board Certified PS, they could be of other specialties posing as Cosmetic Surgeons. Most of these individuals do not have surgical privileges at their local Hospitals. Also, post-op care is crucial to prevent complications.

E. Ronald Finger, MD · Answer

There is no reason not to have a Rapid Recovery breast augmentation. The primary difference is the reduction of post-operative pain and the lack of limitations compared to the standard augmentation mammoplasty. Generally, many activities can be resumed the next day or two, and specific stretching will resume 6 hours after surgery. 
Regarding the anesthesia, I have been using the same anesthetist for 15 years with no problems. We use a light general anesthesia that requires no intubation tube down your trachea (throat), so there is nothing to be afraid of. The procedure takes about 52 to 56 minutes. The procedure goes much more smoothly under this type of anesthesia with zero pain. There is no reason to have discomfort during the procedure.
Thank you for your question, and good luck.

Richard Bloom, MBBS (Hons), FRACS · Answer

Hi there mytimenow,You have hit on one of my biggest pet hates in our industry.Surgeons using catchy marketing terms to minimise an operation. We see it everywhere: mini boob job, mini facelift, mini tummy tuck and now rapid recovery breast implants.All surgeons, all the time for every operation, will be doing their utmost to make your recovery as rapid and easy as possible. It is in no ones interest to do "slow recovery breast implants".My advice to you is have an operation that will give you the best long term result. In 5 years, you will not remember if you needed help with your children for 3 days or 5 days, but trust me if you have an unsatisfactory result from your implants you will remember every single day.Choose the best surgeon, take their advice on the best approach (including anaesthesia), then speak with your anaesthetist about your concerns. There is not a one size fits all anaesthetic. I am certain your specific concerns will be able to be addressed. Dont compromise your result on the basis of a marketing spin of quicker recovery. In fact stay away from anyone promoting "rapid recovery".Best wishes

Pros and cons of Rapid Recovery breast implants - if I'm a good candidate - I'd definitely prefer local anesthesia!

Answers (8)

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