Breast Augmentation in Newcastle: Cost and Recovery

Mammoplasty spans several procedures: augmentation (enlargement with implants), reduction (excess tissue and skin are removed), mastopexy (lift of sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The ideal method is chosen for you individually, taking into account your 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.

Mammoplasty gives a lasting result: around 10–15 years after augmentation (up to implant replacement) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. How long it holds depends on weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity. To keep the result, wear supportive underwear and keep your weight under control.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty depends on which surgery was done. When augmentation is performed through an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant sits under the muscle, lactation is usually kept, as the glandular tissue stays intact. With a lift or reduction the risk rises, because ducts may be cut. Discuss this with your surgeon in advance.

The choice of implant looks at material (silicone looks most natural, while saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon will choose what works best for your anatomy and wishes.

During the operation the patient is under general anesthesia and feels nothing at all. For the first 1–3 days there may be moderate discomfort, relieved by painkillers. By day 5–7 pain is much lower, and by weeks 2–3 discomfort passes. Report severe pain to your doctor straight 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.

No scientific data suggest that mammoplasty increases breast cancer risk, and implants are not carcinogenic. After the operation, continue regular screening: self-examination, mammography and ultrasound. Always tell the doctor who examines you about your implants.

Mammoplasty after a C-section is possible, but your body must fully recover first. Wait at least 6–12 months after giving birth and after breastfeeding ends. A surgeon's consultation and check-up are required 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.

Mild asymmetry soon after surgery is normal during the first weeks and is caused by swelling and uneven healing. If shape or size remains different after 3–6 months, your surgeon should examine you to establish the cause.

Following mammoplasty, the nipples and breasts may temporarily become less or more sensitive. Irritated nerve endings are the cause. In most cases normal sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. With no improvement after a year, visit 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.