Breast Augmentation in Memphis: Cost and Recovery

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 rare when recommendations are fully followed, yet they can include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or increased nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, separation of the wound and tissue necrosis.

Mammoplasty results hold for a long time, roughly 10–15 years after augmentation (up until implant replacement) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, the aging of skin and gravity play a role in duration. Supportive underwear and weight control help maintain the result.

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.

Choosing an implant takes into account the material (silicone looks the most natural, saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. Your surgeon will select the best 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 may go back to work (with no physical exertion) after 7–14 days, take light walks after 1–2 weeks, and do fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks. Strength training is allowed after 3 months, pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments stay on for 4–6 weeks. Timing depends on your 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.

Mammoplasty can follow a C-section, but first your body must fully recover. Allow a minimum of 6–12 months from giving birth and from the end of breastfeeding. Before surgery, a consultation and check-up with the surgeon are required.

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.

It is normal to have slight asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery, because of swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in size or shape persists after 3–6 months, book an examination with your surgeon to find 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) do not affect implants themselves, but they can cause swelling or a change in breast tissue volume that alters the appearance for a time. Always inform your surgeon about them ahead of surgery.