TUMESCENT BREAST AUGMENTATION - FREE COSMETIC CONSULTATION - 410-COSMETIC (410-761-1743)
Dr. Tebbetts recently discussed techniques that would promote an earlier recovery after an augmentation mammoplasty. An additional problem that I have noted is that most patients awaken from general anesthesia with significant discomfort after breast augmentation surgery. For several years I have been using a tumescent solution (containing marcaine with epinephrine) to minimize the post-operative discomfort in these patients. This solution also helps secure hemostasis and saves time in the operating room. After the first subpectoral pocket is dissected in a manner similar to that described by Tebbetts(1), it is packed with lap sponges moistened with tumescent solution. These are left in place while the other side is operated upon. The surgeon then returns to the first side, removes the sponges, and places the implant. This allows adequate time for distribution of the tumescent solution, without prolonging the procedure. The subpectoral pocket is now dry and anesthetized. The sponges also tamponade small vessels and help define the pocket.
The patient awakens >>>>>VIRTUALLY PAIN FREE<<<<<.
The slow onset of pain is better managed in a conscious, and oriented patient. Subsequent discomfort can be managed with oral analgesics.
I believe this delivery method of the tumescent solution has proven its usefulness by minimizing patient discomfort postoperatively, saving operating room time, as well as reducing incidence of hematomas.
Alan Weiss, M.D.
1600 S. Crain Hwy
Suite 508
Email: DocW1600@aol.com
Revised from the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal December 2002
.
REFERENCES
1. Tebbetts, John B. Achieving a Predictable 24-Hour Return to Normal Activities after Breast Augmentation: Part 1. Refining practices by Using Molion and Time Study Principles. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 129: 273, 2002.
Dr. Tebbetts recently discussed techniques that would promote an earlier recovery after an augmentation mammoplasty. An additional problem that I have noted is that most patients awaken from general anesthesia with significant discomfort after breast augmentation surgery. For several years I have been using a tumescent solution (containing marcaine with epinephrine) to minimize the post-operative discomfort in these patients. This solution also helps secure hemostasis and saves time in the operating room. After the first subpectoral pocket is dissected in a manner similar to that described by Tebbetts(1), it is packed with lap sponges moistened with tumescent solution. These are left in place while the other side is operated upon. The surgeon then returns to the first side, removes the sponges, and places the implant. This allows adequate time for distribution of the tumescent solution, without prolonging the procedure. The subpectoral pocket is now dry and anesthetized. The sponges also tamponade small vessels and help define the pocket.
The patient awakens >>>>>VIRTUALLY PAIN FREE<<<<<.
The slow onset of pain is better managed in a conscious, and oriented patient. Subsequent discomfort can be managed with oral analgesics.
I believe this delivery method of the tumescent solution has proven its usefulness by minimizing patient discomfort postoperatively, saving operating room time, as well as reducing incidence of hematomas.
Alan Weiss, M.D.
1600 S. Crain Hwy
Suite 508
Email: DocW1600@aol.com
Revised from the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal December 2002
.
REFERENCES
1. Tebbetts, John B. Achieving a Predictable 24-Hour Return to Normal Activities after Breast Augmentation: Part 1. Refining practices by Using Molion and Time Study Principles. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 129: 273, 2002.