Breast Surgery with Implants in Gothenburg

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.

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 are durable: about 10–15 years following augmentation (until implant replacement) and 5–10 years following a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, aging skin and gravity influence how long the effect lasts. Maintain it by wearing supportive underwear and watching your weight.

The ability to breastfeed after mammoplasty depends on the type of operation. With augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision and a submuscular implant, lactation usually remains, because the glandular tissue is not harmed. After a lift or reduction the risk is greater, as ducts may be cut. Raise this with your surgeon ahead of time.

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.

Because the operation is done under general anesthesia, the patient feels no pain. The first 1–3 days may bring moderate discomfort, eased with painkillers. By day 5–7 the pain is much milder, and by weeks 2–3 the discomfort disappears. Let your doctor know immediately if pain is severe.

You can return to work (without physical exertion) after 7–14 days. Light walks after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, strength training after 3 months. Pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Wear compression garments for 4–6 weeks. Exact timing depends on your recovery.

Mammoplasty has not been scientifically shown to increase the risk of breast cancer, and implants do not cause it. Keep up regular screening after surgery (self-exams, mammography and ultrasound) and always mention your implants to the doctor examining you.

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 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.

Mild asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery is normal and results from swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in shape or size remains after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an examination to identify the cause.

Temporary changes in nipple and breast sensitivity, reduced or heightened, can occur after mammoplasty. The reason is irritation of nerve endings. For most patients sensitivity comes back within 3–12 months. If a year passes without improvement, see your surgeon.

Hormonal drugs such as contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy do not influence implants directly. They may, however, cause swelling or breast tissue volume changes that temporarily affect how the breasts look. Inform your surgeon of these medications before surgery.