BREAST AUGMENTATION 

Augmentation Mammoplasty

Breast: A Symbol of Motherhood, Sexual Identity, and Body Aesthetics
Breasts play a vital role in a woman's body, symbolising motherhood, serving as an integral aspect of sexual identity, and contributing to the contours of the female form.
For these reasons, breast augmentation becomes a necessary procedure in cases of insufficient breast volume. While silicone implants are the most commonly used method, fat grafting has recently emerged as an option for suitable candidates.

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size. During this process, implants are placed beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles.

Is Breast Augmentation a Challenging Surgery?

For patients, breast augmentation is not considered a difficult operation. However, certain factors must be evaluated before the surgery, such as the patient’s body structure, skin quality, existing breast tissue volume, chest muscle condition, and exercise habits. This evaluation helps determine the most suitable technique for the individual.

What Is the Ideal Age for Breast Augmentation?

One of the most frequently asked questions about breast augmentation is regarding the appropriate age. The recommended age is 18 or older, as this is when breast development typically concludes. In cases of asymmetry where one breast develops while the other does not, the procedure can be performed on younger patients if the psychological impact is significant, with input from a psychologist.

Who Are Suitable Candidates for Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is suitable for individuals who:

• Have small or moderately sized breasts,
• Have noticeable asymmetry between their breasts,
• Have experienced breast volume loss and sagging post-pregnancy or due to ageing,
• Have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer.

What Are the Surgical Techniques for Breast Augmentation?

Where and How Are Breast Implants Placed?
Breast implants can be inserted through three different incisions:

• A 4-5 cm incision in the breast crease,
• A semicircular incision along the lower edge of the areola,
• An incision in the armpit.

The implants are then positioned beneath the breast tissue (subglandular), beneath the chest muscle fascia (subfascial), or under the chest muscle (submuscular or subpectoral). The "dual-plane" technique combines these positions, with the implant partially placed under the muscle and partially under the breast tissue.

What Are the Types and Contents of Breast Implants?

There are two main types of implants:

1. Silicone Gel-Filled Implants
2. Saline-Filled Implants (containing sterile saltwater)

Both types have an outer silicone shell. Globally and in Turkey, silicone gel implants are the preferred choice.

Silicone implants come in two shapes:

• Round: Provides a fuller upper breast appearance.
• Tear (Anatomical): Offers a more natural breast contour.

Additionally, breast augmentation can utilise the body's own fat tissue, extracted from areas like the abdomen, and enriched with stem cells for better vascular integration.

How Is the Right Implant Chosen for the Breast Augmentation Surgery?

The selection of implant size and shape depends on:

• Chest width and structure,
• The amount of existing breast tissue,
• Degree of breast sagging,
• Skin quality (thick, thin, or aged).

The patient’s preferences are also considered, ensuring a personalised outcome.

How Long Does the Breast Augmentation Surgery Take?

Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia in a sterile operating theatre. It typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours.

What Precautions Should Be Taken Before the Breast Augmentation Surgery?

• A mammogram or breast ultrasound is required pre-operatively for baseline imaging.
• Smoking should be stopped at least three weeks prior.
• Blood-thinning medications and certain herbal supplements must be avoided one week before surgery.

Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation Surgery

• Patients usually stay in the hospital for one night and are discharged the next day.
• Pain is most intense during the first three days, gradually reducing to a pressure sensation.
• Most patients return to work within a week.
• Light exercise like walking is allowed after one month, while more vigorous activities, including chest and arm exercises, can resume after six weeks.
• Wearing a sports bra for 2-3 months helps reduce swelling and improves breast contour.

Post-operative follow-ups are scheduled at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Annual ultrasounds or mammograms are recommended.

Are There Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation?

As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries potential risks, including:

• Capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant),
• Breast pain,
• Infection,
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation,
• Implant leakage or rupture.

Will there be scars after breast augmentation surgery?

While some scarring is inevitable, breast augmentation uses small incisions, minimising visible scars. Scars typically fade over time and blend into natural creases or the areola’s boundary.

Disclaimer:
This page is for informational purposes only and does not contain elements related to therapeutic healthcare services. For diagnosis and treatment, please consult your doctor.

Remember! FeelinHealthy connects you directly with accredited and trusted healthcare providers across Europe, offering transparent pricing without intermediaries for your treatment needs.