Breast Augmentation for Patients from Bloemfontein

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.

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Complications are infrequent provided all recommendations are followed. They may include hematoma or seroma, infection of the wound, changes in nipple sensitivity (lower or higher), capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

The outcome of mammoplasty is long-lasting: about 10–15 years after augmentation (until implants are replaced) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Its duration is influenced by weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity. Keep the result by wearing supportive underwear and managing your weight.

Whether breastfeeding remains possible after mammoplasty depends on the type of operation. With augmentation via an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant beneath the muscle, lactation is usually preserved, as the glandular tissue is spared. After a lift or reduction the risk is higher because ducts may be cut. Talk it through with your surgeon beforehand.

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.

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.

Most patients return to work (without physical exertion) after 7–14 days. Light walks are fine after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming come after 4–6 weeks, strength training after 3 months, pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks. Exact timing depends on your recovery.

No scientific evidence shows that mammoplasty raises the risk of breast cancer, and implants do not cause cancer. After surgery, continue regular screening with self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always tell the examining doctor that you have implants.

A C-section does not rule out mammoplasty, but full recovery of the body must come first. Wait 6–12 months or more after giving birth and after you stop breastfeeding. Before surgery, you must have a surgeon's consultation and check-up.

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.

Some slight asymmetry during the first weeks after surgery is expected, caused by swelling and uneven healing. Should a difference in shape or size persist after 3–6 months, visit your surgeon to be examined and find out why.

After mammoplasty, nipple and breast sensitivity may change temporarily — decrease or increase. The cause is irritation of nerve endings. In most cases sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. If there is no improvement after a year, see your surgeon.

Although hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) have no direct impact on implants, they can produce swelling or changes in breast tissue volume, temporarily affecting appearance. Be sure your surgeon knows about such medications before surgery.