Augmentation Mammoplasty in Baltimore

The term mammoplasty covers several operations: augmentation (implants to increase volume), reduction (excess tissue and skin removed), mastopexy (a lift for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correction of asymmetry. Which method is best is decided individually, from your wishes and the surgeon's advice.

If you follow all the recommendations, complications are rare; they may, however, include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, decreased 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.

Your ability to breastfeed after mammoplasty depends on the surgery type. For augmentation using an under-breast or armpit incision and an implant placed under the muscle, lactation is usually preserved: the glandular tissue is not damaged. A lift or reduction raises the risk, as ducts may be cut. Discuss this with your surgeon ahead of time.

Choosing an implant takes into account the material (silicone looks the most natural, saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. Your surgeon will select the best option for your anatomy and wishes.

The patient feels nothing during surgery, which is performed under general anesthesia. Moderate discomfort in the first 1–3 days is possible and is treated with painkillers. By day 5–7 the pain is greatly reduced, and by weeks 2–3 no discomfort remains. With severe pain, contact your doctor immediately.

Work is possible after 7–14 days, as long as it involves no physical exertion. Take 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. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks. 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.

It is possible to have mammoplasty after a C-section, provided the body has recovered fully. Wait no less than 6–12 months after birth and after finishing breastfeeding. A surgeon's consultation and examination are needed before the operation.

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.

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.

After mammoplasty, sensitivity of the nipples and breasts may change for a while, becoming lower or higher. This is due to irritation of the nerve endings. In most cases sensitivity comes back within 3–12 months. If nothing improves after a year, see your surgeon.

Implants are not directly influenced by hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy), yet swelling or breast tissue volume changes can result and temporarily affect appearance. Mention any such medications to your surgeon before surgery.