Breast Augmentation for Patients from The Bronx

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.

Complications are infrequent provided all recommendations are followed. They may include hematoma or seroma, infection of the wound, changes in nipple sensitivity (lower or higher), capsular contracture, aesthetic asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

Mammoplasty results are durable: about 10–15 years following augmentation (until implant replacement) and 5–10 years following a lift or reduction. Weight, pregnancy, aging skin and gravity influence how long the effect lasts. Maintain it by wearing supportive underwear and watching your weight.

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.

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 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.

Work is possible after 7–14 days, as long as it involves no physical exertion. Take 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. Timing depends on your 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.

Yes, mammoplasty leaves scars, but they are minimal when the surgeon is skilled. The incisions are made in concealed areas, under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. For the first months scars are reddish, then within 6–12 months they fade and become barely visible.

Slight asymmetry in the first weeks after surgery is normal: it is caused by swelling and uneven healing. If a difference in shape or size persists after 3–6 months, see your surgeon for an examination to find the cause.

After mammoplasty, nipple and breast sensitivity may change temporarily — decrease or increase. The cause is irritation of nerve endings. In most cases sensitivity returns within 3–12 months. If there is no improvement after a year, 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.