Breast Augmentation in Melbourne

Several procedures fall under mammoplasty: augmentation (volume increase with implants), reduction (excision of extra tissue and skin), mastopexy (lift of sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The right method is chosen for each patient according to her wishes and the surgeon's advice.

As long as all recommendations are kept, complications are rare. Among the possible ones: hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or increased nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

The outcome of mammoplasty is long-lasting: about 10–15 years after augmentation (until implants are replaced) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Its duration is influenced by weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity. Keep the result by wearing supportive underwear and managing your weight.

Your ability to breastfeed after mammoplasty depends on the surgery type. For augmentation using an under-breast or armpit incision and an implant placed under the muscle, lactation is usually preserved: the glandular tissue is not damaged. A lift or reduction raises the risk, as ducts may be cut. Discuss this with your surgeon ahead of time.

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.

Under general anesthesia the patient feels nothing during the operation. Some moderate discomfort can appear in the first 1–3 days and is controlled with painkillers. By day 5–7 pain lessens markedly, and discomfort ends by weeks 2–3. Tell your doctor right away if the pain is severe.

Work without physical exertion can be resumed 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. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks. Exact timing depends on how you recover.

Science has found no evidence that mammoplasty increases the risk of breast cancer. Implants are not a cause of cancer. After the procedure, go on with regular screening, including self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always tell the examining doctor about the 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.

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.

Some slight asymmetry during the first weeks after surgery is expected, caused by swelling and uneven healing. Should a difference in shape or size persist after 3–6 months, visit your surgeon to be examined and find out why.

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.

Although hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) have no direct impact on implants, they can produce swelling or changes in breast tissue volume, temporarily affecting appearance. Be sure your surgeon knows about such medications before surgery.