Mammoplasty in Philadelphia: Implants and Price

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.

When all recommendations are followed, complications are rare. They can include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or heightened 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.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty depends on the type of surgery. With augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant placed under the muscle, lactation is usually preserved — the glandular tissue is not damaged. After a lift or reduction the risk is higher because ducts may be cut. Discuss this with your surgeon in advance.

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.

Surgery takes place under general anesthesia, and the patient feels no pain. Moderate discomfort is possible in the first 1–3 days and is managed with painkillers. Pain eases considerably by day 5–7 and discomfort disappears by weeks 2–3. Tell your doctor immediately if pain is severe.

Work (without physical strain) is possible after 7–14 days. Gentle walks after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, strength workouts after 3 months. The pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments are needed for 4–6 weeks. Exact dates depend on how your recovery goes.

There is no scientific proof linking mammoplasty to a higher breast cancer risk. Implants do not cause cancer. Continue regular screening after surgery, including self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always inform the examining doctor about your implants.

A C-section does not rule out mammoplasty, but full recovery of the body must come first. Wait 6–12 months or more after giving birth and after you stop breastfeeding. Before surgery, you must have a surgeon's consultation and check-up.

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.

During the first weeks after the operation, slight asymmetry is normal, since swelling and healing are uneven. If a size or shape difference continues after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an exam to find its cause.

Nipple and breast sensitivity can change temporarily after mammoplasty, either decreasing or increasing. It happens because nerve endings are irritated. Sensitivity usually returns within 3–12 months. If there is still no improvement after a year, consult 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.