Breast Implants in Pietermaritzburg: Augmentation Surgery

Mammoplasty includes several procedures: augmentation (adding volume with implants), reduction (removing excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (lifting sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The optimal method is selected individually, based on your wishes and the surgeon's recommendation.

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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.

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.

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.

Implants are chosen by material (silicone appears most natural, saline is used less frequently), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. Your surgeon selects the option that best suits your anatomy and wishes.

The surgery is carried out under general anesthesia, and the patient feels nothing. Moderate discomfort is possible during the first 1–3 days and is relieved by pain medication. Pain falls significantly by day 5–7, and by weeks 2–3 discomfort is over. If you have severe pain, tell your doctor at once.

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 after a C-section is an option, though the body should recover fully beforehand. Wait at least 6–12 months after delivery and after you finish breastfeeding. You will need a surgeon's consultation and check-up before surgery.

Mammoplasty always leaves scars, though with a skilled surgeon they are minimal. The incisions are hidden under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars are reddish in the early months but fade within 6–12 months and become almost invisible.

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.

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.