What is Breast Augmentation Surgery and Who Is a Good Candidate?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast volume and achieve a fuller, more aesthetic appearance. The goal of this surgery is not only to enlarge the breasts but also to correct asymmetry, restore volume lost after pregnancy and breastfeeding, and create a silhouette that is in harmony with your body’s natural contours.
This procedure is typically ideal for individuals who:
- Naturally have small breasts: Women who feel their breast tissue hasn’t developed to a size that is proportionate with their body.
- Have experienced volume loss after childbirth and breastfeeding: Pregnancy, lactation, and weight fluctuations can cause breasts to lose volume and sag.
- Have breast asymmetry: Individuals who want to equalize the size or shape differences between their two breasts.
- Are undergoing breast reconstruction after a mastectomy: This can be part of the process of rebuilding a breast for patients who have lost one due to breast cancer.
Making the decision for surgery is a very personal journey. During our initial consultation here in Istanbul, Turkey, we will thoroughly discuss your goals and expectations to ensure this procedure is the right choice for you. The ideal outcome is one that is harmonious, natural, and unique to your body.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery: The Right Steps for a Successful Outcome
Proper preparation is key to a successful surgery and a smooth recovery. This includes both physical and psychological readiness.
1. Initial Consultation and Discussion:
This is the most critical step of the entire process. When you visit our clinic in Istanbul, we’ll have a detailed conversation about your desires, concerns, and expectations. Together, we will evaluate your current breast structure, skin elasticity, body type, and overall health. Based on this assessment, we’ll determine the most suitable implant type, size, and surgical technique for you. This is a personalized plan tailored specifically to your needs.
2. Choosing the Right Implant:
The implants used in breast augmentation come in various shapes, textures, and volumes. When making this choice, we consider the following factors:
- Shape: There are two main implant shapes: round and anatomical (teardrop). Round implants generally add more fullness to the upper part of the breast, while teardrop-shaped implants provide a more natural, sloped look.
- Surface: Implant surfaces can be either smooth or textured. Textured surfaces are designed to help the implant stay in place and can be effective in reducing the risk of capsular contracture.
- Filling Material: The most commonly used implants today are filled with silicone gel. The consistency of the silicone gel provides a feel that is very similar to natural breast tissue.
- Volume: The most appropriate volume is determined based on your body measurements, chest width, and personal goals. Remember, “bigger” isn’t always “better.” A size that is proportionate to your body is crucial for an aesthetic and natural result.
3. Health Checks and Lifestyle Adjustments:
Before the surgery, you will undergo a series of medical tests to assess your general health. It’s also very important that you stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least 2-3 weeks prior to the surgery. Smoking negatively impacts wound healing and increases the risk of complications. Blood-thinning medications and certain herbal supplements must also be discontinued before the procedure. You will receive a detailed list of instructions on this.
The Steps of Breast Augmentation Surgery: The Details of the Procedure
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 1-2 hours. In our state-of-the-art operating room here in Istanbul, Turkey, every step is performed with meticulous care.
1. Making the Incision:
The first step of the surgery is to make an incision where the implant will be inserted. The location of this incision determines where the scar will be post-surgery. The most common incision techniques are:
- Inframammary Fold: This is the most frequently chosen method. The incision is made in the natural crease under the breast, which helps to conceal the scar. This technique provides the surgeon with the best visibility and control for creating the pocket and inserting the implant.
- Transaxillary (Armpit): The incision is made in the armpit. The advantage of this method is that it leaves no scar on the breast itself. However, placing the implant can be more challenging with this technique, and the surgeon’s experience is crucial.
- Periareolar (Around the Nipple): The incision is made along the border between the areola (the colored area around the nipple) and the surrounding skin. This scar also becomes less noticeable over time. However, it may not be suitable for patients with small areolas and, in some cases, can pose a risk of damage to the milk ducts.
2. Creating the Pocket:
After the incision is made, a “pocket” is created to hold the implant in a stable and correct position within the breast tissue. This pocket can be opened in different layers:
- Subglandular (Under the Breast Tissue): The implant is placed directly under the breast tissue, on top of the chest muscle. This technique may result in a faster recovery since the muscle tissue is not disturbed. However, in patients with very thin skin, the edges of the implant may be more visible.
- Submuscular (Under the Muscle): The implant is placed under the chest muscle (pectoral muscle). This method provides better concealment for the implant and can result in a more natural appearance. It is particularly preferred for patients with thin skin and less breast tissue. Placing the implant under the muscle can also make future mammograms easier to perform, as it puts less pressure on the breast tissue.
- Dual Plane (Hybrid Technique): This combines the advantages of both techniques. The upper part of the implant is placed under the muscle, while the lower part remains under the breast tissue. This method offers a natural look while providing fullness in the upper part of the breast to support a rounded shape.
3. Implant Placement and Closure:
The previously selected silicone gel or, less commonly, saline-filled implants are carefully placed into the created pocket. Once the position of the implant is checked, the incision is closed with aesthetic sutures layer by layer. The stitches are usually dissolvable and do not need to be removed.
The Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation: A Smooth Return to Normal Life
The recovery process can vary for each individual. However, knowing what to expect and how to take care of yourself will ensure a comfortable and smooth recovery.
First 24-48 Hours:
It’s completely normal to experience some mild pain, tightness, and swelling in the first 1-2 days after surgery. This pain is easily managed with the painkillers I prescribe. During this time, it’s important to rest, avoid sudden movements, and continuously wear the special surgical bra provided.
First Week:
You must avoid any strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or sudden arm movements. The supportive bra is crucial for keeping the implants in the correct position and reducing swelling. You can usually return to work after 3-5 days if it is a desk job. For jobs that require heavy physical activity, you should stay away from work longer.
2-4 Weeks:
By this time, the swelling and bruising will have significantly decreased, and the pain will have mostly subsided. You can begin light exercises, such as brisk walking. However, you should still avoid heavy exercises that target your chest muscles.
6 Weeks and Beyond:
You can now fully return to your normal daily activities. You can slowly reintroduce exercises like weightlifting and swimming into your routine. The surgical scars will continue to fade and become less noticeable over time. It can take 3-6 months for the implants to settle into their final position and for the breasts to achieve their final shape.
Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries certain risks and potential complications. However, with an experienced surgeon and the right techniques, these risks are minimized.
- Capsular Contracture: This is the formation of a hard scar tissue (capsule) around the implant, which can cause firmness and pain in the breast. This risk has been significantly reduced with modern implants and proper placement techniques.
- Implant Displacement: The implant may shift or be positioned incorrectly. Wearing the supportive bra and following post-operative instructions can reduce this risk.
- Infection: A rare complication after surgery, it can be treated with antibiotics.
- Changes in Sensation: There may be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent changes in sensation in and around the nipple.
- Hematoma or Seroma: A collection of blood (hematoma) or fluid (seroma) in the surgical area. These usually resolve on their own or can be drained with a simple procedure.
I will provide you with a detailed explanation of all these risks, and we take all necessary precautions before and during your surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
1. Is breast augmentation surgery painful?
Since the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. The post-operative pain can be easily controlled with the prescribed pain medication. Most patients describe the feeling as a muscle soreness.
2. How long do silicone implants last?
Modern silicone implants are very durable and long-lasting. However, they are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. It is generally recommended to have a routine check-up after 10-15 years. If there are no issues with the implants, they do not need to be replaced.
3. Will there be scars after the surgery?
Yes, like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation will leave scars. However, depending on the incision technique, these scars are hidden in natural creases and will fade and become less noticeable over time.
4. Can I breastfeed after the surgery?
Yes. When the surgery is performed using the correct techniques, it does not damage the milk ducts and will not affect your ability to breastfeed.
5. Can I have a mammogram or MRI after surgery?
Silicone implants can make mammograms more challenging, but they do not prevent them. Experienced radiologists use special techniques to image breasts with implants. Additionally, to check the condition of the implants, a routine MRI check-up is recommended every 3 years.
6. What are the prices for breast augmentation surgery in Istanbul?
Prices vary depending on many factors, such as the brand of the implant, the surgical technique, and the experience of the hospital and surgeon. Therefore, to get a price quote, you need to have a detailed consultation. We can provide you with a personalized plan and pricing at our clinic.
Breast augmentation, when approached with careful consideration and performed safely, is a procedure that can boost a woman’s self-confidence and improve her quality of life. The key to achieving the happiest and healthiest outcome on this journey is to have access to the right information and to work with an experienced surgeon.
If you are considering this aesthetic journey, I would be happy to welcome you to our clinic in Istanbul to answer all your questions and create a personalized plan for you. Remember, beauty is a light that shines from within. Our job is to help that light shine even brighter.
Best regards,
Dr. Ahmet Kaplan
