Breast Augmentation in Manhattan: Cost and Recovery

The term mammoplasty covers several operations: augmentation (implants to increase volume), reduction (excess tissue and skin removed), mastopexy (a lift for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correction of asymmetry. Which method is best is decided individually, from your wishes and the surgeon's advice.

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.

Whether breastfeeding remains possible after mammoplasty depends on the type of operation. With augmentation via an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant beneath the muscle, lactation is usually preserved, as the glandular tissue is spared. After a lift or reduction the risk is higher because ducts may be cut. Talk it through with your surgeon beforehand.

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.

General anesthesia is used for the surgery itself, so there is no sensation. In the first 1–3 days you may feel moderate discomfort, which painkillers relieve. Pain subsides significantly by day 5–7 and discomfort is gone by weeks 2–3. If pain becomes severe, inform your doctor right away.

After 7–14 days you can resume work, provided there is no physical exertion. Light walking after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, and strength training after 3 months. Pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Wear compression garments for 4–6 weeks. The exact schedule depends on your recovery.

Mammoplasty is not linked by scientific evidence to an increased breast cancer risk, and implants do not cause cancer. After surgery, keep doing regular screening: self-exams, mammography and ultrasound. Tell any examining doctor about your implants every time.

Mammoplasty after a C-section is an option, though the body should recover fully beforehand. Wait at least 6–12 months after delivery and after you finish breastfeeding. You will need a surgeon's consultation and check-up before surgery.

There are scars after mammoplasty, though a skilled surgeon keeps them minimal. The incisions go in discreet areas, such as under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Early on the scars are reddish, but over 6–12 months they fade and are almost unnoticeable.

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.

Mammoplasty may temporarily alter the sensitivity of the nipples and breasts, making it lower or higher. This is caused by irritated nerve endings. In most cases it recovers within 3–12 months. If you see no improvement after a year, contact 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.