Breast Augmentation in San Jose

Under mammoplasty come several procedures: augmentation (increasing volume using implants), reduction (excess tissue and skin removal), mastopexy (lifting for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correcting asymmetry. The surgeon's advice and your wishes guide an individual choice of the best method.

Complications are uncommon if every recommendation is followed, but possible ones include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, lower or higher nipple sensitivity, 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.

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.

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.

Because the operation is done under general anesthesia, the patient feels no pain. The first 1–3 days may bring moderate discomfort, eased with painkillers. By day 5–7 the pain is much milder, and by weeks 2–3 the discomfort disappears. Let your doctor know immediately if pain is severe.

Returning to work without physical exertion is possible after 7–14 days, and light walks after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming are allowed after 4–6 weeks, strength training after 3 months, and the pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments: 4–6 weeks. Exact timing depends on recovery.

No scientific data suggest that mammoplasty increases breast cancer risk, and implants are not carcinogenic. After the operation, continue regular screening: self-examination, mammography and ultrasound. Always tell the doctor who examines you about your implants.

After a caesarean section, mammoplasty is possible once full recovery is complete. At least 6–12 months must pass after the birth and after breastfeeding ends. A surgeon's consultation and check-up must take place before surgery.

Mammoplasty does leave scars, but in the hands of a skilled surgeon they are minimal. Incisions are placed in hidden areas: under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars look reddish in the first months, yet within 6–12 months they fade and become nearly invisible.

It is normal to have slight asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery, because of swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in size or shape persists after 3–6 months, book an examination with your surgeon to find the cause.

A temporary decrease or increase in nipple and breast sensitivity is possible after mammoplasty, caused by irritated nerve endings. Most of the time sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. If it has not improved after one year, see 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.