Breast Augmentation in Chicago

Mammoplasty includes several procedures: augmentation (adding volume with implants), reduction (removing excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (lifting sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The optimal method is selected individually, based on your wishes and the surgeon's recommendation.

Complications rarely happen when all recommendations are respected. Possible ones are hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or increased sensitivity of the nipple, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

The effect of mammoplasty lasts for years: about 10–15 years after augmentation (until the implants are replaced) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Duration depends on weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity. Supportive underwear and a stable weight help the result last.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty depends on which surgery was done. When augmentation is performed through an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant sits under the muscle, lactation is usually kept, as the glandular tissue stays intact. With a lift or reduction the risk rises, 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 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.

A return to work (no physical exertion) is possible after 7–14 days. Easy walks from 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming from 4–6 weeks; strength training from 3 months. Pool and sea from 4–6 weeks. Compression garments for 4–6 weeks. Precise timing depends on your individual 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.

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 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 in the first weeks after surgery is normal: it is caused by swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in shape or size persists after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an examination to find 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.

Hormonal medicines (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) do not directly affect implants but may trigger swelling or changes in breast tissue volume, which temporarily affects appearance. You must tell your surgeon about such drugs before the operation.