Breast Augmentation for Patients from Albuquerque

Mammoplasty brings together several procedures: augmentation (implants to add volume), reduction (removal of surplus tissue and skin), mastopexy (lift for sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The most suitable method is selected individually, guided by your wishes and the surgeon's advice.

Complications are uncommon if every recommendation is followed, but possible ones include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, lower or higher nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

A mammoplasty result lasts a long time, about 10–15 years after augmentation (until implants need replacing) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Its longevity is affected by weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity. Supportive underwear and weight control help preserve it.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty varies with the type of surgery. Lactation is usually preserved after augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision with the implant under the muscle, because glandular tissue is not injured. After a lift or reduction there is more risk, since ducts may be cut. Discuss this in advance with your surgeon.

Selecting an implant means weighing material (silicone looks the most natural, saline is less often used), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon then chooses the optimal option for your anatomy and wishes.

General anesthesia is used for the surgery itself, so there is no sensation. In the first 1–3 days you may feel moderate discomfort, which painkillers relieve. Pain subsides significantly by day 5–7 and discomfort is gone by weeks 2–3. If pain becomes severe, inform your doctor right away.

You can return to work (without physical exertion) after 7–14 days. Light walks after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, strength training after 3 months. Pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Wear compression garments for 4–6 weeks. Exact timing depends on your recovery.

Science has found no evidence that mammoplasty increases the risk of breast cancer. Implants are not a cause of cancer. After the procedure, go on with regular screening, including self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always tell the examining doctor about the implants.

Mammoplasty can follow a C-section, but first your body must fully recover. Allow a minimum of 6–12 months from giving birth and from the end of breastfeeding. Before surgery, a consultation and check-up with the surgeon are required.

There are scars after mammoplasty, though a skilled surgeon keeps them minimal. The incisions go in discreet areas, such as under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Early on the scars are reddish, but over 6–12 months they fade and are almost unnoticeable.

Mild asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery is normal and results from swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in shape or size remains after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an examination to identify the cause.

A temporary decrease or increase in nipple and breast sensitivity is possible after mammoplasty, caused by irritated nerve endings. Most of the time sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. If it has not improved after one year, see your surgeon.

Hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) do not affect implants directly, but may cause swelling or changes in breast tissue volume, temporarily affecting appearance. Be sure to tell your surgeon about such medications before surgery.