Mammoplasty in London: Implants and Price

Mammoplasty covers several procedures: augmentation (increasing volume with implants), reduction (removing excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (lift for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The best method is chosen individually based on your wishes and the surgeon's advice.

Complications are uncommon if every recommendation is followed, but possible ones include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, lower or higher nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

Results after mammoplasty last a long while: about 10–15 years for augmentation (until implant replacement) and 5–10 years for a lift or reduction. Weight changes, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity affect their duration. To maintain the result, choose supportive underwear and control your weight.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty depends on the type of surgery. With augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant placed under the muscle, lactation is usually preserved — the glandular tissue is not damaged. After a lift or reduction the risk is higher because ducts may be cut. Discuss this with your surgeon in advance.

Selecting an implant means weighing material (silicone looks the most natural, saline is less often used), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon then chooses the optimal option for your anatomy and wishes.

The patient feels nothing during surgery, which is performed under general anesthesia. Moderate discomfort in the first 1–3 days is possible and is treated with painkillers. By day 5–7 the pain is greatly reduced, and by weeks 2–3 no discomfort remains. With severe pain, contact your doctor immediately.

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.

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 after a C-section is possible, but only once your body has fully recovered. Allow at least 6–12 months after giving birth and after breastfeeding stops. A consultation and check-up with a surgeon are required before surgery.

Scars do remain after mammoplasty, but a skilled surgeon keeps them to a minimum. Incisions are placed in hidden zones: beneath the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. The scars are reddish for the first months and fade within 6–12 months to become almost invisible.

Slight asymmetry early on, in the first weeks after surgery, is normal and is due to swelling and uneven healing. If the difference in shape or size persists after 3–6 months, get examined by your surgeon 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 (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) have no direct effect on implants, but they can cause swelling or changes in breast tissue volume that temporarily alter appearance. Always tell your surgeon about such medications before surgery.