Breast Augmentation and Reduction, Prices, and Information

Mammoplasty is the surgery to change the volume and shape of the breast. It is a very common procedure because it addresses both aesthetic and psychological concerns in women.

Breast surgeries are performed to reduce weight, correct sagging, and lift the breasts, but not all surgeries are called the same. There is augmentation and reduction mammoplasty as well as mastopexy. Here, we will describe their differences so you can better understand this breast corrective procedure.

Augmentation Mammoplasty

Augmentation mammoplasty is a procedure to increase the size of a woman’s breast. In some cases, it is due to breast hypoplasia (underdeveloped breast tissue), asymmetry, restoring volume lost after pregnancy, or tissue loss caused by aging. In these situations, performing an augmentation surgery where a prosthesis is placed in the breast provides the necessary lift and fullness to improve breast position. This operation is commonly known as breast augmentation and is carried out through different incisions.

Additionally, the placement of the breast implant can be either beneath the pectoral muscle (submuscular implant) or beneath the mammary gland (subglandular implants).

Reduction Mammoplasty

Reduction mammoplasty is the surgical procedure to reduce breast size. The motivations can be both aesthetic and medical, as in many cases, the breasts are excessively large (gigantomastia), and reducing their size can alleviate back pain and vertebral issues, as well as improve aesthetics by preventing premature sagging due to weight. Reduction mammoplasty is also used for men suffering from gynecomastia (excessive development of breast tissue) or breast asymmetry.

This surgical procedure removes fatty tissue, a portion of the mammary tissue, and excess skin from the breast. With mammoplasty, a breast lift is achieved, giving the breasts a beautiful and natural shape. It is also possible to reduce the size of the areola if it is large or disproportionate to the rest of the body.

Before and After

Since there are two versions and types of patients (augmentation and reduction), the before-and-after results of mammoplasty vary.

Those who opt for the technique to increase breast volume achieve results that correct underdeveloped breast glands by adding volume with an implant in each breast.

Those who choose the technique to reduce breast size experience improvements in health and physical appearance. Through the procedure, the breast is reshaped, and its position is corrected, achieving symmetry and repositioning the areola and nipple to an optimal, centered position according to the new breast size.

Is There a Minimum Age?

You must be at least 18 years old and have fully developed breasts. This is important because, before this age, women undergo a process where the body goes through different phases, and breast growth can be delayed or accelerated. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the breasts have completed their development and reached their final size.

It is also very important to have clear goals and realistic expectations. To achieve this, it is necessary to rely on the experience and expertise of a professional who can address all questions related to the procedure.

Who Cannot Undergo the Procedure

Most women can undergo this aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, but there are some cases where a certain period of time must pass. These include:

• Minors.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Tumor-related lesions.

Apart from these cases, the rest of the population can undergo breast surgery. If there is any pre-existing condition, the doctor will evaluate the situation to determine whether the surgery is advisable or should be postponed. Women in their 20s or even those in their 50s can enjoy the benefits of this procedure.

How Long Does the Surgery Last?

Depending on each patient, there may be slight differences, but the average duration is an hour and a half. Keep in mind that different mammoplasty procedures, such as subglandular and submuscular, require distinct techniques and surgical steps. Additionally, if reducing the areola size and achieving symmetry is necessary, it may take more time than, for example, inserting the implant through the armpit.

Which Anesthesia Is Better?

The most suitable option is general anesthesia. This type of sedation facilitates the surgeon’s work and prevents discomfort and nerves during the procedure. In some surgeries, local anesthesia may be used, but this is a decision the doctor must make.

Risks of Mammoplasty

Like any surgery, there are certain risks associated with anesthesia and the surgical process itself. Although complications are rare, there may be bleeding, infection, or implant rejection. Additionally, bruising may occur.

Infections are treated with antibiotics, and only in cases where they cannot be controlled is implant removal necessary. If bruises are not absorbed by the body, they must be drained. In other cases, there may be dehiscence or a reaction to suture materials or the implant itself.

Capsular contracture is another risk of mammoplasty. In some cases, the natural encapsulation that the human body creates around a foreign object can cause pain and deformation in the implanted tissue. In these instances, replacement may be necessary over time.

There is also a risk of implant rupture due to improper handling or excessive pressure.

Types of Implants for Mammoplasty

Breast implants are made from hypoallergenic synthetic material. They are manufactured with silicone gel, which can be shaped into round or teardrop (anatomical) forms. Choosing between different types of implants depends on the surgical technique, the desired results, and the body’s characteristics. While materials like silicone and saline have evolved over time, implants typically have a reinforced silicone outer shell with multiple layers to prevent ruptures and the spread of material within the breast.

Implants may be round, anatomical, or teardrop-shaped and have either a smooth or textured surface. They also come in various sizes (measured in cc) to achieve a breast size tailored to your needs and preferences.

Abdominoplasty and Mammoplasty Together

Nowadays, it is possible to perform different surgical procedures simultaneously. Enhancing the breasts and reducing the abdomen is increasingly common. Techniques range from liposuction with breast augmentation to combining abdominoplasty and mammoplasty. The technique used for this combination surgery is lipofilling with autologous fat augmentation, which yields excellent results.

What Happens If the Implants Rupture?

The quality of materials used to manufacture breast implants has improved significantly, and modern designs account for potential leaks or ruptures. In these cases, the outer shell of the silicone gel implant prevents the contents from leaking out.

Ruptures can be detected through palpation or mammograms. Since implants are designed to avoid leaks, ruptures are often silent, meaning they don’t release the contents, and are only visible on a mammogram. If this occurs, the implant must be replaced with a new one.

Does It Affect Sensitivity?

Inserting an implant or undergoing reduction mammoplasty does not alter nerve endings. You should retain the same sensitivity in the breast and nipple area. In some cases, sensitivity may differ if the areola size is modified or scars are present. Any changes would be similar to those of any scarred or encapsulated tissue. However, it is generally expected that you will feel and experience sensations as you did before the surgery.

How Does Breastfeeding Work After Mammoplasty?

Absolutely yes. You can breastfeed your baby just as you could before. There is nothing about the procedure that prevents this. The breast shape will remain the same, and there is no risk of silicone passing to the baby. However, it’s important to care for your breasts as you would without implants. Many women experience changes due to increased mammary glands and loss of elasticity. Use moisturizing cream and supportive bras to maintain the shape and ensure beautiful breasts for a longer time.

Do Breast Implants Need to Be Replaced?

One important fact to keep in mind is that all modern implants have an expiration date. This means they will need to be replaced eventually.

Often, a new surgery is required to change the size, shape, or because the material has aged prematurely. Each person is different: while one woman may need a replacement after 10 years, another might require it 15 or 20 years after the initial mammoplasty.

What Is the Postoperative Period Like?

There is a period of several days or even weeks during which you will feel pain and discomfort, as well as experience difficulty moving, sleeping, and swelling. Depending on the technique used, symptoms and the duration of the postoperative period for breast augmentation may vary. In any case, you should be aware that you will need to go through this process, so it’s important to have all the information before undergoing surgery.

You may also experience a temporary change in nipple sensitivity. This is common when the implant is placed through the areola.

Additionally, part of the postoperative process involves wearing a special bra. This bra supports the breast without being too tight. In the first few days, an adjustable Velcro wrap is often used as a thoracic bandage. This helps achieve a round and well-positioned shape.

For approximately one week, you will experience swelling and bruising. The pain will gradually subside. After this period, the sutures can be removed to allow the tissue to heal normally.

How Much Does Mammoplasty Cost?

Prices are calculated based on the type of technique used—whether it’s axillary, through the areola, or the placement of the implants. Additionally, the cost of the prosthesis, as well as the surgeon’s and clinic’s fees, are factored in. This means that mammoplasty costs around $3,000. Enhancing the shape and size of the breasts may vary in price depending on your location or the chosen clinic. For example, while prices in Barcelona, Madrid, or Valencia remain similar, other countries may have different rates for the same aesthetic services. We recommend having the procedure done in Spain, as there is excellent professional quality and top-notch facilities.