Breast Augmentation in Borough of Queens: Cost and Recovery

There are several types of mammoplasty: augmentation (bigger volume with implants), reduction (removal of excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (a lift for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correction of asymmetry. The best approach is chosen individually, considering your wishes and the surgeon's recommendation.

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.

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 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.

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.

The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia — the patient feels nothing. In the first 1–3 days moderate discomfort is possible and is relieved with painkillers. By day 5–7 pain decreases significantly, and by weeks 2–3 discomfort is gone. If pain is severe, tell your doctor right away.

You can get back to work (no physical exertion) in 7–14 days. Light walks in 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming in 4–6 weeks, strength training in 3 months. Pool and sea in 4–6 weeks. Keep wearing compression garments for 4–6 weeks. The precise timing depends on your own recovery.

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.

After a caesarean section, mammoplasty is possible once full recovery is complete. At least 6–12 months must pass after the birth and after breastfeeding ends. A surgeon's consultation and check-up must take place before surgery.

Mammoplasty does result in scars, but a skilled surgeon keeps them minimal. Incisions are made in areas that are out of sight: under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. At first scars are reddish, and within 6–12 months they fade and become nearly invisible.

It is normal to have slight asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery, because of swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in size or shape persists after 3–6 months, book an examination with your surgeon to find 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.

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.