Augmentation Mammoplasty in Port Elizabeth

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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With every recommendation followed, complications seldom occur, though they can include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or increased nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

The results of mammoplasty are long-lasting: roughly 10–15 years after augmentation (until the implants are replaced) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity all influence how long they last. Wearing supportive underwear and managing your weight help maintain the result.

After mammoplasty, breastfeeding depends on the type of surgery. If augmentation uses an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant goes under the muscle, lactation is typically preserved because glandular tissue is not damaged. A lift or reduction has a higher risk since ducts may be cut. Discuss it with your surgeon before surgery.

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.

The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia — the patient feels nothing. In the first 1–3 days moderate discomfort is possible and is relieved with painkillers. By day 5–7 pain decreases significantly, and by weeks 2–3 discomfort is gone. If pain is severe, tell your doctor right away.

A return to work (no physical exertion) is possible after 7–14 days. Easy walks from 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming from 4–6 weeks; strength training from 3 months. Pool and sea from 4–6 weeks. Compression garments for 4–6 weeks. Precise timing depends on your individual recovery.

There is no scientific basis for saying mammoplasty raises breast cancer risk. Implants do not cause cancer. Post-surgery, maintain regular screening with self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always inform the examining doctor that you have implants.

Mammoplasty can follow a C-section, but first your body must fully recover. Allow a minimum of 6–12 months from giving birth and from the end of breastfeeding. Before surgery, a consultation and check-up with the surgeon are required.

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.

In the first weeks after surgery, slight asymmetry is normal: swelling and uneven healing are behind it. If shape or size still differ after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for a check-up to find the reason.

Sensitivity in the nipples and breasts may shift temporarily after mammoplasty, decreasing or increasing, because the nerve endings are irritated. It returns within 3–12 months in most cases. If it has not improved after a year, go see 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.