Mammoplasty in San Antonio: Implants and Price

Mammoplasty brings together several procedures: augmentation (implants to add volume), reduction (removal of surplus tissue and skin), mastopexy (lift for sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. The most suitable method is selected individually, guided by 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.

Mammoplasty results last a long time: about 10–15 years after augmentation (until implant replacement) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity affect how long it lasts. To maintain the result, wear supportive underwear and control your weight.

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.

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 operation is done under general anesthesia, so the patient feels nothing. Over the first 1–3 days moderate discomfort may occur and is eased with painkillers. By day 5–7 pain drops noticeably, and by weeks 2–3 the discomfort has gone. If the pain is severe, let your doctor know at once.

After 7–14 days you can resume work, provided there is no physical exertion. Light walking after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, and strength training after 3 months. Pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Wear compression garments for 4–6 weeks. The exact schedule depends on your recovery.

Mammoplasty is not linked by scientific evidence to an increased breast cancer risk, and implants do not cause cancer. After surgery, keep doing regular screening: self-exams, mammography and ultrasound. Tell any examining doctor about your implants every time.

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.

Mammoplasty does leave scars, but with a skilled surgeon they are minimal. Incisions are made in hidden areas — under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. In the first months scars are reddish, but within 6–12 months they fade 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.

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.

There is no direct effect of hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) on implants, but swelling or changes in breast tissue volume may occur and temporarily affect appearance. Let your surgeon know about these medications before surgery.