Breast Surgery in South Africa

Many patients today are completely happy with the size of their breasts and are more concerned about sagging in this area. Patients want to be able to wear revealing clothes without a bra but do not want to look as though they’ve undergone a procedure. This is one of the main reasons why we are seeing an increase in patients requesting a breast lift rather than a breast augmentation.

Breasts sag due to gravity taking its toll, breastfeeding can also stretch the breast skin and as we age and as our hormones decrease, so too does the volume of the breasts. As the skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose their shape and firmness and begin to sag. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts – at least for a while, as no surgery can permanently delay the effects of gravity. Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

Breast fat grafting versus breast augmentation?

In patients requiring a more natural result without a breast implant, a breast lift can be performed to improve the sagging and the shape and volume can be improved by injecting their own fat into the upper pole of the breast for a natural upper pole fullness. Autogenous fat grafts offer the advantages of preventing the long-term complications associated with the implantation of a breast implant.

Prosthetic breast implants have been the golden standard for decades to improve breast shape. However, many women today are looking for options without the possible complications of an implant and, therefore, are looking at some of the newer more natural techniques to improve the shape and the size of their breasts. A breast lift with or without lipofilling of the upper pole is a safe and predictable procedure resulting in naturally perky breasts.

Size, shape, or elevation: no matter what aspect of your bustline is causing you discomfort or unhappiness, we understand how important a woman’s bust line is to her self-esteem. That’s why Dr Nerina Wilkinson offers an array of breast procedures to help you achieve the shape and size you’ve always desired.

Women in good physical health and whose expectations are realistic will benefit most from cosmetic breast surgery.

Results will vary from person to person and depend largely on the type of breast procedure you’ve opted for. Women who have breast reductions should find almost immediate relief from the back pain caused by large, heavy breasts, for instance.

If it’s a breast lift you’ve had done, you’ll notice a more youthful appearance to your bustline, while an augmentation will give you larger, more shapely breasts.

As with any surgical procedure, there are also risks involved in breast surgery. The first step in avoiding any complications is to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon who is well-versed in cutting-edge tools and techniques.

It’s important to discuss any concerns during your consultations so that you have a better understanding of the risk factors. Another way to put your mind at ease is to do your own research into your desired procedure so you know what to expect.

The best age for breast surgery varies depending on individual goals and physiological factors. Generally, it’s advisable to wait until breasts have fully developed, often in the late teens to early twenties. However, it’s essential to consider emotional maturity, overall health, and specific reasons for surgery, such as discomfort or medical conditions.

Cosmetic breast surgeries encompass a wide range of procedures, including breast augmentation (enlargement using implants or fat grafting), breast lift (mastopexy) and breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty). Each addresses unique aesthetic or functional concerns.

The cost of breast surgery in South Africa varies based on the procedure, surgeon’s expertise, facility costs, and other factors. 

I.e: a general estimate of cost breast surgery by type of procedure

• Breast augmentation: approximately R80,000 to R90,000

• Breast reduction: approximately R95,000 to R105,000

• Breast lift: approximately R90,000 to R110,000

• Breast fat grafting: approximately R95,000 to R105,000

It’s essential to consult with a reputable surgeon who can provide a personalised assessment and cost estimate tailored to individual needs and desired outcomes.

Post-operative pain from breast surgery is common but manageable. Patients often experience discomfort, swelling, and tightness initially. Pain levels depend on the specific procedure, individual pain tolerance, and surgical techniques used. Pain management, including prescribed medications and following post-operative guidelines, helps ensure a more comfortable recovery. Your doctor will be able to provide more information during your initial consultation.