Mammoplasty in Birmingham: Implants and Price

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 hold for a long time, roughly 10–15 years after augmentation (up until implant replacement) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, the aging of skin and gravity play a role in duration. Supportive underwear and weight control help maintain the result.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty depends on the type of surgery. With augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant placed under the muscle, lactation is usually preserved — the glandular tissue is not damaged. After a lift or reduction the risk is higher because ducts may be cut. Discuss this with your surgeon in advance.

Implant choice is based on material (silicone gives the most natural appearance, saline is used more rarely), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. Your surgeon will pick the best one for your anatomy and goals.

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 (without physical strain) is possible after 7–14 days. Gentle walks after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, strength workouts after 3 months. The pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments are needed for 4–6 weeks. Exact dates depend on how your recovery goes.

No scientific data suggest that mammoplasty increases breast cancer risk, and implants are not carcinogenic. After the operation, continue regular screening: self-examination, mammography and ultrasound. Always tell the doctor who examines you about your 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.

Mammoplasty does leave scars, but in the hands of a skilled surgeon they are minimal. Incisions are placed in hidden areas: under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars look reddish in the first months, yet within 6–12 months they fade and become nearly invisible.

Slight asymmetry is normal in the first weeks after surgery and comes from swelling and uneven healing. When a difference in shape or size lasts beyond 3–6 months, visit your surgeon for an examination to pinpoint the cause.

After mammoplasty, the breasts and nipples can temporarily lose or gain sensitivity. Irritation of the nerve endings is responsible. Most often sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. If there is no improvement a year later, see your surgeon.

Hormonal medications (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) do not act on implants directly, yet they may lead to swelling or shifts in breast tissue volume that affect the look for a while. Make sure your surgeon knows about them before surgery.