Breast Augmentation in Phoenix: 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.

Complications rarely happen when all recommendations are respected. Possible ones are hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or increased sensitivity of the nipple, 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.

Whether you can breastfeed after mammoplasty depends on the kind of surgery. After augmentation via an under-breast or armpit incision with the implant placed under the muscle, lactation is usually preserved, since the glandular tissue is not damaged. A lift or reduction carries a higher risk because ducts may be cut. Talk this over with your surgeon beforehand.

When choosing implants, the factors are material (silicone looks most natural, saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon will find the best option for your anatomy and preferences.

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.

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.

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.

Scarring is part of mammoplasty, but with an experienced surgeon it stays minimal. Incisions are hidden under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. During the first months scars appear reddish; within 6–12 months they lighten and become almost invisible.

Slight asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery is normal: it is caused by swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in shape or size persists after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an examination to find the cause.

Breast and nipple sensitivity may change for a time after mammoplasty, going down or up. The cause lies in irritation of nerve endings. In the majority of cases sensitivity is restored within 3–12 months. If nothing has improved after a year, consult your surgeon.

Hormonal drugs such as contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy do not influence implants directly. They may, however, cause swelling or breast tissue volume changes that temporarily affect how the breasts look. Inform your surgeon of these medications before surgery.