All 2 Clinics that provide Breast Lift in South Africa

Fluctuating weigh, the affects pregnancy or aging can all result in loss of skin elasticity. A breast lift rejuvenates the breast, firming the area and reduces sag. Breast augmentation by the use of implants can be combined with this procedure to complete the desired effect.

Length

The procedure can last up to three hours.

Procedure

A breast lift is usually carried out under general anaesthetic though occasionally if only a small area is affected a local anaesthetic may suffice. During the procedure the nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast and an incision from this point downwards and outwards meets an incision along the underside of the breast. The excess skin is removed and the skin is stitched around the areola and down to the lower crease at the bottom of the breast.

A variation of the technique, used when less skin is too be removed, involves cutting around the areola and then another circular incision about the first thus removing a doughnut shaped area of skin, the outer circle is then reattached to the areola. This procedure is referred to as a Benelli or doughnut lift.

Recovery

Swelling and discomfort should be reduced after a day or two, with stitches being removed after a week. Normal levels of activity should be regained within two weeks and strenuous activity possible after a month or so. Scars will fade over time achieving their final look after about one year.

Risks

Incisions risk bleeding and infection. Temporary or permanent loss of feeling is possible in affected area. Cosmetic risks include asymmetry nipple position and scaring: scaring will occur though it should be minimised by following the natural creases of the breast.

Organizations

The South African Ministry of Health holds overall responsibility for health directives and policy. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) is a politically independant body that organizes and regulates South Africa's professions, including its medical ones. A full register of Physicans qualified to practice in South Africa is maintained by the HPCSA.

The Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons of South Africa represents over 98% of registered plastic surgeons in South Africa. It has an address book to locate members. Many plastic surgeons are also registered with the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic surgeons and again details can be verified online.

Education

The basic medical degree takes 6 years. After this a doctor may become a Registrar within one of the specialties recognised by the HPCSA. Specialty training in Plastic Surgery takes a minimum of 4 addtional years of training as a Registrar.

There is an ethical and statutory obligation to engage in continuing education - referred to as Continuing Professional Development. The HPCSA monitors courses that award continuing education units (CEUs), a plastic surgeon has to maintain a balance of 60 CEUs in a 24 month period. Failure to do so will result in the suspension of the licence to practice.

In addition to these mandatory requirements the professional associations organize lectures and courses to enable their members to further enhance their surgical skills.

Complaints

An ombudsman deals with complaints regarding the medical profession. Findings of the ombudsman may be passed to disiplinary committees organized by the HPCSA. The committees have the power to censure, fine or suspend the right to practice.

Civil proceedings may also be persued and if diciplinary proceeding find behaviour that is criminal in nature they will pass the case to the civil courts.

Storage and Access to Medical Records

The HPCSA publishes guidelines for the storage of medical records - these reflect statutory requirements and the ethical values of the medical profession.

Medical records are generally stored for a minimum of 6 years though some conditions may require the indefinite storage of information. The National Health Act states that all patients have a right to confidentiality - It is the responsibility of the physican to ensure the safety of their patients records.

Additionally the Health Act and the ethical responsiblities of the physican guarrantee a patients access to their medical records and copies of scans, x-rays etc... at a resonable cost.

Resources

Medical Schools directory on iime.org:
http://www.iime.org/database/africa/southafrica.htm

Ministry of Health website:
http://www.doh.gov.za/

The Health Professions Council of South Africa website:
http://www.hpcsa.co.za/

Documents on ethical and professional conduct can be found here.

Recognized qualifications for the practice of Plastic and Reconstructive can be found on the HPCSA's sight here.

Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons of South Africa website:
http://www.plasticsurgeons.co.za/

The biggest choice of breast lift clinics in South Africa with Prices, Patient Reviews, Maps. Everything you need to find the best breast lift for you in South Africa.