Mammoplasty in Brussels: Implants and Price

Mammoplasty is an umbrella for several procedures: augmentation (increasing volume with implants), reduction (taking away excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (lifting sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. Your wishes and the surgeon's advice determine the best individual method.

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 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 procedure. Augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision with a submuscular implant usually keeps lactation intact, since glandular tissue is not damaged. With a lift or reduction the risk is higher, because ducts may be cut. Be sure to discuss this with your surgeon in advance.

Implant choice considers material (silicone looks most natural, saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon will choose the best option for your anatomy and wishes.

The operation is done under general anesthesia, so the patient feels nothing. Over the first 1–3 days moderate discomfort may occur and is eased with painkillers. By day 5–7 pain drops noticeably, and by weeks 2–3 the discomfort has gone. If the pain is severe, let your doctor know at once.

You may go back to work (with no physical exertion) after 7–14 days, take light walks after 1–2 weeks, and do fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks. Strength training is allowed after 3 months, pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments stay on for 4–6 weeks. Timing depends on your recovery.

Scientific evidence does not show that mammoplasty increases breast cancer risk. Implants do not lead to cancer. After surgery, stay on top of regular screening through self-exams, mammography and ultrasound. Always let the examining doctor know you have implants.

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.

Mammoplasty always leaves scars, though with a skilled surgeon they are minimal. The incisions are hidden under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars are reddish in the early months but fade within 6–12 months and become almost invisible.

Mild asymmetry soon after surgery is normal during the first weeks and is caused by swelling and uneven healing. If shape or size remains different after 3–6 months, your surgeon should examine you to establish 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.

There is no direct effect of hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) on implants, but swelling or changes in breast tissue volume may occur and temporarily affect appearance. Let your surgeon know about these medications before surgery.