Breast Enlargement Surgery in Antwerp

Under mammoplasty come several procedures: augmentation (increasing volume using implants), reduction (excess tissue and skin removal), mastopexy (lifting for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correcting asymmetry. The surgeon's advice and your wishes guide an individual choice of the best method.

When all recommendations are followed, complications are rare. They can include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or heightened nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

Mammoplasty results last a long time: about 10–15 years after augmentation (until implant replacement) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity affect how long it lasts. To maintain the result, wear supportive underwear and control your weight.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty is determined by the type of surgery. Augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision, with the implant under the muscle, usually preserves lactation, since the glandular tissue is left undamaged. The risk is higher after a lift or reduction because ducts may be cut. Talk to your surgeon about it in advance.

In choosing implants, the surgeon considers material (silicone looks most natural, saline is less common), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile, and selects the best option for your anatomy and wishes.

Under general anesthesia the patient feels nothing during the operation. Some moderate discomfort can appear in the first 1–3 days and is controlled with painkillers. By day 5–7 pain lessens markedly, and discomfort ends by weeks 2–3. Tell your doctor right away if the pain is severe.

After 7–14 days you can resume work, provided there is no physical exertion. Light walking after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, and strength training after 3 months. Pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Wear compression garments for 4–6 weeks. The exact schedule depends on your recovery.

Mammoplasty is not linked by scientific evidence to an increased breast cancer risk, and implants do not cause cancer. After surgery, keep doing regular screening: self-exams, mammography and ultrasound. Tell any examining doctor about your implants every time.

Mammoplasty is possible after a C-section once your body has completely recovered. Leave at least 6–12 months after childbirth and after breastfeeding has ended. Surgery requires a prior consultation and check-up by the surgeon.

Scars after mammoplasty are unavoidable, but with a skilled surgeon they stay minimal. Incisions are made in hidden places, namely under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars look reddish during the first months, but within 6–12 months they fade to almost invisible.

Slight asymmetry early on, in the first weeks after surgery, is normal and is due to swelling and uneven healing. If the difference in shape or size persists after 3–6 months, get examined by your surgeon to identify the cause.

Sensitivity in the nipples and breasts may shift temporarily after mammoplasty, decreasing or increasing, because the nerve endings are irritated. It returns within 3–12 months in most cases. If it has not improved after a year, go see your surgeon.

Hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) have no direct effect on implants, but they can cause swelling or changes in breast tissue volume that temporarily alter appearance. Always tell your surgeon about such medications before surgery.