What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure performed to increase breast volume, correct asymmetry, or restore fullness lost after pregnancy and weight changes. The aim is to achieve a proportionate, balanced and natural appearance in keeping with the person's body. Two main methods are used: augmentation with a silicone implant, and fat injection (fat transfer) using the person's own fat tissue.
Methods
Augmentation with a silicone implant
This is the most common method. Implants are available in different sizes, profiles and textures (round or teardrop-shaped). The implant can be placed under the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. The placement and implant type are planned according to the existing breast tissue, skin structure and the desired appearance.
Fat injection (fat transfer)
This involves processing fat taken by liposuction from the person's own body (areas such as the abdomen, waist or legs) and injecting it into the breast. It contains no foreign material and provides natural fullness; however, the volume that can be added is limited and part of the injected fat may be absorbed by the body over time. It is suitable for those who want a limited volume increase and who also wish to have fat removed from another area. Which method is appropriate is determined in consultation, according to expectations and anatomical structure.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- Those who want to increase breast volume in keeping with their natural structure
- Those who want to regain breast fullness after pregnancy or weight loss
- Those with marked asymmetry between the two breasts
- People in suitable general health with realistic expectations
The surgical process
- Consultation: your expectations, the implant type and size and the possible risks are assessed together.
- Preparation: preoperative blood tests and imaging are carried out (breast ultrasound under 40, mammography over 40).
- Surgery: under general anaesthesia, the implant is placed in the appropriate plane in a procedure lasting about 45–60 minutes.
- Recovery: mild pain, swelling and bruising are possible; with the doctor's advice and a surgical bra the process is comfortable.
Recovery process — step by step
- The first days: swelling, tightness and tenderness are normal. Most patients are up and about on the first day.
- Week 1: a return to desk-based work is usually possible. A supportive bra is worn.
- Weeks 2–6: strenuous exercise and overhead arm movements are avoided; there is a gradual return to daily life.
- Months 3–6: the implant settles, the swelling disappears completely and the final natural appearance emerges.
Aesthetic surgery is not about changing a body; it is about revealing that body's most natural, most balanced form.
Breast implants are not guaranteed for life; their average lifespan is generally stated as 10–15+ years and they are replaced when necessary. Regular check-ups are recommended.
The presence of an implant generally does not directly prevent breastfeeding, because the implant is placed under the mammary gland tissue. In addition, patients who need breast augmentation are often those who already have insufficient breast tissue; for this reason, milk production capacity can vary from person to person. It is recommended that you discuss your situation with your doctor.
The incision site varies according to the technique (inframammary fold, areola edge, or armpit). Scars fade over time.
It is a procedure performed under general anesthesia, lasting approximately 45–60 minutes.
Implant size, profile and placement, or the fat injection option, are planned during the examination according to your body measurements and expectations.
Most patients return to desk work within 5-7 days; about 4-6 weeks is recommended before strenuous exercise.
Yes; it is enough to mention that you have an implant, and when necessary imaging techniques suitable for patients with implants are used.
Breast implants are not guaranteed for life; their average lifespan is generally stated as 10–15+ years and they are replaced when necessary. Regular check-ups are recommended.