Breast Surgery

What is Breast Surgery?

Breast surgery is a type of surgical procedure that can alter the size, shape or appearance of the breasts. It is commonly used for both cosmetic and medical reasons and should only be performed by a qualified specialist plastic surgeon.

At Unveil Plastic Surgery, we understand that every patient is different, and we provide personalised treatment plans to achieve the best results. Dr Teixeira is a specialist plastic surgeon experienced in augmentation mammoplasty (breast augmentation), reduction mammoplasty (breast reduction), and mastopexy (breast lift) procedures and will work closely with you to tailor a treatment plan that meets your needs.

Types of Breast Surgery

Augmentation Mammoplasty (Breast Augmentation)

A cosmetic surgery commonly known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation, or breast implants, aims to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts.

There are two main options for augmentation mammoplasty, which are breast implant surgery and breast augmentation with fat transfer. The former involves the placement of silicone or saline implants, while the latter uses the patient’s own fat that is from another area of the body.

Augmentation mammoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. An augmentation mammoplasty procedure takes approximately one to two hours to complete.

Mastopexy (Breast lift)

Mastopexy, also known as a breast lift, focuses on lifting and restructuring the breasts. This type of surgery may be helpful for women who have undergone changes to their breast shape and size due to age, pregnancy or weight loss. A medical necessity arises when the nipples and two-thirds of the breast tissue descend below the breast fold.

A mastopexy is performed by removing any excess skin, reshaping the breast tissue, and repositioning. Nipple repositioning is also possible. A mastopexy will not result in a significant change to breast size but may be combined with other procedures such as a reduction mammoplasty and implant removal if size reduction is necessary, or implant insertion and fat grafting if size increase is desired.

A mastopexy is performed under general anaesthesia. A mastopexy procedure takes approximately three to four hours to complete.

Reduction Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction)

Reduction mammoplasty, otherwise known as breast reduction surgery, aims to relieve physical and emotional discomfort associated with overly large breasts. This surgical intervention involves removing excess breast tissue and skin to achieve a more proportionate breast size while also repositioning the nipples.

Reduction mammoplasty surgery can address several concerns such as reducing skin irritation, alleviating pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, improving posture, relieving breast pain during periods, and lifting the breasts.

Reduction mammoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. A reduction mammoplasty procedure takes approximately two hours to complete.

Gynaecomastia (Male Breast Surgery)

Gynaecomastia, a condition characterised by the growth of excess breast tissue in males, often leads to enlarged breasts and can cause discomfort and embarrassment. The condition can result from hormonal imbalances during puberty, hereditary factors, obesity, or the use of certain medications.

Surgical treatment is an effective solution for gynaecomastia and involves flattening and enhancing the chest contour, reducing breast size and alleviating discomfort.

Gynaecomastia is performed under general anaesthesia. A gynaecomastia procedure takes approximately two to three hours to complete.

Risks and Complications

With any surgery there are potential risks involved.

Some possible risks of breast surgery include:

Bleeding
Infection
Scarring
Skin and nipple necrosis
Changes in nipple and breast sensation
Asymmetry or irregular shape and contour
Haematoma and fluid accumulation (seroma)
Breastfeeding difficulties
Implant rupture, leakage, and capsular contracture
Changes in shape and position of the implants
Psychological impacts, including potential dissatisfaction
Recurrence of issues or not achieving desired results
Variability in surgical results

General anaesthesia also carries a certain level of risk such as allergic reaction and breathing difficulties, although these risks are quite rare. In addition, general side effects like allergic reactions, swelling, bruising, slow healing, tissue necrosis (especially in smokers) and fluid accumulation may occur.

It’s important to follow all pre and post-operative care instructions provided by your specialist plastic surgeon to reduce the likelihood of complications.

Surgery and Recovery

The process of undergoing breast surgery requires careful preparation and planning. In order to recover fully from the procedure, it is important to take the necessary time to rest and heal properly. The team at Dr Teixeira’s surgery will provide you with detailed instructions on what to expect during the recovery period and will offer guidance on how to manage pain or discomfort.

Recovery Tips:

Avoid Strenuous Activities: During the early stages of your recovery, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and get ample rest.
Wear Support Garments: You will need to wear a recovery bra or compression garment to support your breasts and reduce any swelling.
Gentle Exercises: Dr Teixeira may recommend gentle stretching exercises to help restore strength and flexibility in your chest muscles.
Manage Pain and Discomfort: It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort after breast surgery, but medications can help manage these symptoms.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: To promote a healthy recovery, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated.

While the recovery process after breast surgery can be challenging, you can take comfort in knowing that you are in good hands with Dr Teixeira and his team. They will provide you with the necessary guidance and care to help you recover successfully.

Most patients can resume light activities and return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the surgery. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. However, it is crucial to attend all follow-up appointments with Dr Teixeira to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected.