Augmentation Mammoplasty in Sydney

Mammoplasty is an umbrella for several procedures: augmentation (increasing volume with implants), reduction (taking away excess tissue and skin), mastopexy (lifting sagging breasts), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and asymmetry correction. Your wishes and the surgeon's advice determine the best individual method.

When all recommendations are followed, complications are rare. They can include hematoma or seroma, wound infection, reduced or heightened 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.

Breastfeeding after mammoplasty is determined by the type of surgery. Augmentation through an under-breast or armpit incision, with the implant under the muscle, usually preserves lactation, since the glandular tissue is left undamaged. The risk is higher after a lift or reduction because ducts may be cut. Talk to your surgeon about it in advance.

Implant choice considers material (silicone looks most natural, saline is used less often), shape (round or anatomical teardrop), surface (smooth or textured), size and profile. The surgeon will choose the best option for your anatomy and wishes.

Surgery takes place under general anesthesia, and the patient feels no pain. Moderate discomfort is possible in the first 1–3 days and is managed with painkillers. Pain eases considerably by day 5–7 and discomfort disappears by weeks 2–3. Tell your doctor 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.

Science has found no evidence that mammoplasty increases the risk of breast cancer. Implants are not a cause of cancer. After the procedure, go on with regular screening, including self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always tell the examining doctor about the 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.

There are scars after mammoplasty, though a skilled surgeon keeps them minimal. The incisions go in discreet areas, such as under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Early on the scars are reddish, but over 6–12 months they fade and are almost unnoticeable.

Mild asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery is normal and results from swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in shape or size remains after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an examination to identify the cause.

After mammoplasty, the breasts and nipples can temporarily lose or gain sensitivity. Irritation of the nerve endings is responsible. Most often sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. If there is no improvement a year later, see your surgeon.

Hormonal medications (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) do not act on implants directly, yet they may lead to swelling or shifts in breast tissue volume that affect the look for a while. Make sure your surgeon knows about them before surgery.