Breast Augmentation Recovery Guide From Houston Plastic Surgeon

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - Mar 12, 2013) - Dr. Philip Straka, a board-certified Houston plastic surgeon, supports his patients not only in the days leading up to the surgery, but also in the days that follow. During the consultation process, Dr. Straka takes measures to educate his patients about what to expect after their operation. Before making any decisions about the procedure, he says patients should know these basic facts about breast augmentation surgery:

• Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure.
• Most patients experience mild breast soreness and a pressure sensation.
• The first 24-48 hours after the procedure will be the most uncomfortable.
• Discomfort can be controlled with pain medication and muscle relaxants.
• Most patients return to work after five days.

Dr. Straka believes it is very important to have a good support system immediately following breast augmentation surgery. He says it is necessary to have a loved one drive the patient home following the surgery, and the patient must remain accompanied during the first 24 hours. He adds that rest and relaxation should be the patient's priority for 24-48 hours after surgery, and mothers with small children should note that they are prohibited from lifting more than 10 pounds for about two weeks.

While recovery from breast augmentation surgery is relatively easy and uneventful, patients will need to wait six to eight weeks for the body to completely heal, says Dr. Straka. He also reminds all patients to fill prescriptions used to control any discomfort prior to the surgery, so they will be immediately on hand if needed. Additionally, the Houston plastic surgeon says he gives patients a postoperative support bra to wear for the initial two weeks following surgery to help aid the recovery process.

Dr. Straka also recommends patients of his Houston plastic surgery practice conduct daily routine breast implant massages after two weeks. He says these massages, while not essential, may help the implant to settle and also slightly decrease the risk of capsular contracture. Dr. Straka takes time to thoroughly cover all post-operative instructions with his patients to ensure they can resume their daily lives and enjoy their results as soon as possible.

About Philip J. Straka, MD, FACS

Dr. Philip Straka is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He earned his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago and completed his general and plastic surgery medical residencies at the Ohio State University. In addition to being a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Straka has also served as a principle investigator in the Mentor Silicone Gel Breast Implant Study (FDA) and the Allergan Silicone Gel Breast Implant Study (FDA). He is best known for his work in the areas of breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction surgery. The American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) has certified Dr. Straka's surgical facility and recognized the practice's commitment to the highest professional safety standards.

Dr. Straka is also available for interview upon request.