Breast Surgery with Implants in Soweto

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 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.

The effect of mammoplasty lasts for years: about 10–15 years after augmentation (until the implants are replaced) and 5–10 years after a lift or reduction. Duration depends on weight, pregnancy, skin aging and gravity. Supportive underwear and a stable weight help the result last.

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.

The choice of implant looks at material (silicone looks most natural, while saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon will choose what works best for your anatomy and wishes.

The operation itself happens under general anesthesia, so nothing is felt. Moderate discomfort can occur in the first 1–3 days and responds to painkillers. By day 5–7 pain decreases a lot, and by weeks 2–3 discomfort is gone. In case of severe pain, tell your doctor right away.

Work without physical exertion can be resumed after 7–14 days. Light walks after 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming after 4–6 weeks, strength training after 3 months. Pool and sea after 4–6 weeks. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks. Exact timing depends on how you recover.

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.

A C-section does not rule out mammoplasty, but full recovery of the body must come first. Wait 6–12 months or more after giving birth and after you stop breastfeeding. Before surgery, you must have a surgeon's consultation and check-up.

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.

A little asymmetry in the early weeks after the operation is normal, due to swelling and uneven healing. If the shape or size still differs after 3–6 months, have your surgeon examine you to determine the cause.

After mammoplasty, sensitivity of the nipples and breasts may change for a while, becoming lower or higher. This is due to irritation of the nerve endings. In most cases sensitivity comes back within 3–12 months. If nothing improves after a year, 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.