Implants Are Not Forever: What You Should Know Before Deciding on Mammoplasty
Mammoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the world. It allows women to improve the shape, volume, or symmetry of their breasts, as well as correct the consequences of aging, pregnancy, or injuries. However, like any surgical intervention, mammoplasty requires a serious approach and careful consideration. If you are considering this surgery, here are some important things you should know in advance.
Exclusively for ELLE.UA the president of the Association of Women Surgeons of Ukraine, candidate of medical sciences, plastic surgeon, lecturer at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of the IPO NMU named after A.A. Bogomolets, certified member of ISAPS and USAPS Irina Pradosh tells everything you need to know before deciding on mammoplasty.
What Patients Should Know When Deciding on Mammoplasty: Tips and Important Nuances
1. Choosing a Surgeon Is the Most Responsible Step
The success of the surgery and your health directly depend on the qualifications and experience of the plastic surgeon. Choose a doctor who has official certificates, many years of experience specifically in mammoplasty, and positive reviews from patients. Be sure to review the portfolio "before and after," talk personally at a consultation, and ask all the questions that interest you.
2. Types of Mammoplasty
There are several types of operations:
- Augmentation mammoplasty — breast enlargement using implants.
- Reduction mammoplasty — reduction of breast volume.
- Breast lift (mastopexy) — shape correction with or without implants.
- Reconstructive mammoplasty — breast restoration after mastectomy or injuries.
During the consultation, the doctor will help choose the optimal option considering your anatomy, desires, and medical indications.
3. Preparing for Surgery
Before mammoplasty, it is mandatory to undergo:
- General examination and blood tests;
- ECG and fluorography;
- Ultrasound examination of the breasts;
- Consultation with an anesthesiologist.
Two weeks before the surgery, you should refrain from smoking, alcohol, and taking certain medications (especially those affecting blood clotting).
4. Rehabilitation: What to Expect After Surgery
After mammoplasty, the patient usually spends 1–2 days in the clinic under the supervision of doctors. During the first weeks, swelling, discomfort, and limited arm mobility may occur.
Main recommendations:
- Wear a compression bra for 4–6 weeks;
- Limit physical activities, sports, and lifting weights;
- Avoid saunas, swimming pools, and tanning salons during recovery;
- Regularly attend check-ups with the surgeon.
Complete tissue healing and the formation of the final result take several months.
5. Possible Risks and Complications
Any surgical intervention has its risks. Among the possible complications:
- Hematomas;
- Inflammatory processes;
- Sensitivity disturbances of the nipples;
- Formation of capsular contracture (hardening of tissues around the implant).
To minimize risks — follow all the doctor's recommendations and do not ignore scheduled check-ups.
6. Implants Are Not Forever
Modern implants have a long lifespan (up to 10–15 years or more), but they are still recommended to be monitored with regular ultrasound and mammography. If necessary (change in shape, age-related changes, patient's desire), implants can be replaced or removed. Important: if the patient has a correction, they only pay for consumables.
7. Psychological Readiness
It is important to remember that mammoplasty is not only a physical but also an emotional event. Before the surgery, it is worth clearly understanding your motives, expectations, and being ready for the adaptation period.
Conclusion: Mammoplasty can significantly improve quality of life, self-esteem, and confidence. The main thing is to responsibly choose the clinic, surgeon, and prepare for all stages of this process. Remember that health should always come first
