Breast Augmentation for Patients from Onitsha

There are several types of mammoplasty: augmentation (bigger volume with implants), reduction (removal of excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (a lift for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correction of asymmetry. The best approach is chosen individually, considering your wishes and the surgeon's recommendation.

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.

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.

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.

Because the operation is done under general anesthesia, the patient feels no pain. The first 1–3 days may bring moderate discomfort, eased with painkillers. By day 5–7 the pain is much milder, and by weeks 2–3 the discomfort disappears. Let your doctor know immediately if pain is severe.

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.

No scientific evidence shows that mammoplasty raises the risk of breast cancer, and implants do not cause cancer. After surgery, continue regular screening with self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always tell the examining doctor that you have implants.

It is possible to have mammoplasty after a C-section, provided the body has recovered fully. Wait no less than 6–12 months after birth and after finishing breastfeeding. A surgeon's consultation and examination are needed before the operation.

Mammoplasty leaves scars, yet a skilled surgeon makes them minimal. Incisions are made where they are hidden: under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars are reddish at first, and within 6–12 months they fade until they are almost 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 medicines (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) do not directly affect implants but may trigger swelling or changes in breast tissue volume, which temporarily affects appearance. You must tell your surgeon about such drugs before the operation.