Breast Enlargement Surgery in Washington D.C.

The term mammoplasty covers several operations: augmentation (implants to increase volume), reduction (excess tissue and skin removed), mastopexy (a lift for sagging), reconstruction (after mastectomy) and correction of asymmetry. Which method is best is decided individually, from 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.

Whether breastfeeding remains possible after mammoplasty depends on the type of operation. With augmentation via an under-breast or armpit incision and the implant beneath the muscle, lactation is usually preserved, as the glandular tissue is spared. After a lift or reduction the risk is higher because ducts may be cut. Talk it through 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.

General anesthesia is used for the surgery itself, so there is no sensation. In the first 1–3 days you may feel moderate discomfort, which painkillers relieve. Pain subsides significantly by day 5–7 and discomfort is gone by weeks 2–3. If pain becomes severe, inform your doctor right away.

You can get back to work (no physical exertion) in 7–14 days. Light walks in 1–2 weeks. Fitness and swimming in 4–6 weeks, strength training in 3 months. Pool and sea in 4–6 weeks. Keep wearing compression garments for 4–6 weeks. The precise timing depends on your own recovery.

There is no scientific basis for saying mammoplasty raises breast cancer risk. Implants do not cause cancer. Post-surgery, maintain regular screening with self-exams, mammography and ultrasound, and always inform the examining doctor that you have implants.

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 leaves scars, yet a skilled surgeon makes them minimal. Incisions are made where they are hidden: under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit. Scars are reddish at first, and within 6–12 months they fade until they are almost invisible.

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.

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.

Hormonal drugs (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy) have no direct effect on implants, but they can cause swelling or changes in breast tissue volume that temporarily alter appearance. Always tell your surgeon about such medications before surgery.