What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a modern plastic surgery procedure performed to change the volume and shape of women's breasts. This operation is preferred in cases such as insufficient development of breast tissue, asymmetry, changes after pregnancy or reconstruction after mastectomy. This procedure, which is performed with silicone prosthesis or breast fat transfer methods, aims to increase self-confidence by balancing the body proportions of the person. Today, thanks to advanced technology and expert surgeons, the operations are performed safely and provide natural-looking results.

Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation surgery is also known as breast implant, breast prosthesis or breast silicone. It is a surgical procedure to change the size and shape of the breast. The operation takes about 1-2 hours under general anesthesia. Depending on the patient's anatomy and preferences, the surgeon inserts silicone prostheses through incisions made in the inframammary fold, around the nipple or in the armpit.

Alternatively, the method of transferring the patient's own fat tissue can also be used. If the patient has sagging breasts, breast augmentation surgeries can be performed in the same session or in different sessions with breast lift.

Key features:

  • Implants can be placed in supramuscular, submuscular, subfascial or dual planes
  • Silicone options available in different sizes and shapes
  • Incisions designed to leave minimal scarring are used
  • Modern implants are suitable for MRI and mammography
  • Hospitalization for 1 night after the operation

Breast augmentation surgeries can basically be performed in two ways:

Breast Implants

Breast implants have been used safely for more than 50 years. The most preferred method with predictable results and high satisfaction rates when the right choices are made is breast augmentation with silicone implants.

Choosing the appropriate prosthesis: One of the most important aspects of breast prosthesis is the selection of the appropriate prosthesis. There is no single type of breast prosthesis that can be claimed to be suitable for all patients. There are prostheses of various brands, models, volumes, shapes and surface features on the market. The physician decides which type of prosthesis is suitable for which type of patient. While making this decision, the physician also considers the needs and wishes of the patient. In addition, many variables such as the patient's general body structure, skin quality, rib cage width, shoulder and hip width, current volume of the breast, nipple and ring (nipple-areola) position should be taken into account. To facilitate this selection, trial prostheses of various sizes and models are available in the operating room. These prostheses are tried and the best choice is made.

Under or over the muscle? Another important aspect is the preparation of the area (package) where the prosthesis will be placed. Implants can be placed in supramuscular, submuscular, subfascial or dual planes. As with prosthesis selection, there is no one implant package that is best for all patients. The implant package is determined by the physician according to the patient's condition. Generally, in patients with a thin structure and small volume breasts, packages called submuscular or dual plan are suitable. The aim here is to prevent the prosthesis from being visible and palpable from the outside. The muscle tissue located under the breast, called the pectoral muscle, is used as a cover. However, this package is not in an anatomical plan and there is a more painful postoperative period due to muscle tension. In patients who have enough breast tissue to cover the prosthesis and who are not very weak and thin, it is generally appropriate to prepare an implant package over the muscle or under the muscle fascia. This package is anatomically suitable for breast augmentation as the implant is placed just below the breast. There is less pain after surgery. However, without proper patient selection, prostheses may look unnatural and the risk of capsular contracture is higher.

Breast Fat Transfer

In this method, unwanted stubborn fat in areas such as the abdomen, waist or hips of the patient is removed from the body by liposuction and prepared to be transferred to the breast. The required amount of fat is transferred under the muscle, above the muscle and under the skin. Although this method seems very logical at first glance, it has some problems. First of all, the person's body must have enough fat tissue for the transfer. Secondly, due to the fact that some of the transferred fat melts and is excreted from the body, the breasts, which are full at first, lose volume over time. In this respect, the final result is not as predictable as breast prosthesis. Most importantly, after the fat transferred to the breast heals, it appears radiologically as microcalcification foci. This radiologic appearance can be confused with the appearance of breast cancer, making breast cancer diagnosis and follow-up difficult.

Why is Breast Augmentation Surgery Preferred?

Breast augmentation surgery may be preferred for various physical and psychological reasons. The main reasons for women to consider this operation are dissatisfaction with their body proportions, asymmetrical breast structure or postpartum changes. It can also be used for breast reconstruction after cancer treatment. Developing technology and safe implant options increase the popularity of the surgery.

Reasons for preference:

  • Lack of self-confidence due to small breasts
  • Volume loss after pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Congenital or acquired breast asymmetry
  • Need for reconstruction after mastectomy
  • The desire to make clothes look better
  • The desire to balance body proportions

How Does Breast Augmentation Surgery Work?

The process of breast augmentation surgery is a comprehensive journey that starts with the initial consultation and extends to postoperative follow-up. During the first consultation, the doctor assesses the patient's expectations and performs a detailed physical examination. Once the appropriate implant size and shape are approximately determined, all necessary tests are performed. On the day of the operation, the patient undergoes surgery under general anesthesia.

Stages of the process:

  • Detailed health assessment and blood tests
  • Requirement to fast for 8 hours before surgery
  • The operation takes 1-2 hours on average
  • Intensive follow-up for the first 24 hours
  • Use of specially designed bras
  • Regular check-up appointments

What is the Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation Surgery?

The healing process of breast augmentation surgery usually proceeds smoothly, although it varies from person to person. The first week is the most critical period and the patient can perform daily activities in a limited way. Postoperative swelling and mild pain are normal and can be controlled with recommended painkillers. Most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks, but full recovery can take up to 6-8 weeks.

Stages of the recovery process:

  • Close observation and specialized care for the first 24 hours
  • Moderate discomfort for 3-4 days
  • Removal of stitches in 7-10 days
  • Significant reduction of swelling within 2-3 weeks
  • Light sports can be started after 4-6 weeks
  • Complete fitting of the implants within 2-3 months
  • 6 months after reaching the final appearance

What Should Be Considered After Breast Augmentation Surgery?

The points to be considered in the period after breast augmentation surgery are critical for a successful outcome. Your doctor's recommendations should be strictly followed and regular check-ups should be made. Some rules should be followed to speed up the healing process and minimize the risk of complications. During this period, it is especially important to be patient for the implants to settle and gain a natural appearance.

Things to consider:

  • Use of a special support bra for the first 6 weeks
  • Avoiding the side lying position
  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity
  • Regular dressing changes and wound care
  • Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption
  • Regular use of recommended medicines
  • Avoid sudden and violent movements
  • Attending regular check-up appointments

What are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the important procedures of modern aesthetic surgery that increases self-confidence in women. This procedure, which is applied with silicone implants or fat transfer method, offers natural-looking results. The operation is preferred in cases such as insufficient development of breast tissue, asymmetry, post-pregnancy changes or breast loss.

Main benefits

  • Provides balance in body proportions and aesthetic appearance
  • Helps clothes fit better
  • Increases self-confidence in women
  • Corrects breast asymmetry
  • Compensates for postpartum volume loss
  • Used in breast reconstruction after cancer
  • Natural appearance is achieved with modern techniques
  • Provides a long-lasting solution

Who is Breast Augmentation Surgery Suitable for?

Breast augmentation surgery is a suitable option for people who meet certain physical and health conditions. It is important that candidates who undergo a detailed examination and evaluation process before the operation have realistic expectations. The procedure is especially ideal for people who are unhappy with their breast development or who want to correct subsequent changes.

Eligible candidates

  • Individuals over 18 years of age who have completed their physical development
  • People in good general health
  • Pregnant and lactating mothers
  • Those with breast development deficiencies
  • Those with breast asymmetry
  • Those who need reconstruction after cancer surgery
  • People who are psychologically ready for the operation
  • Patients who do not smoke or who can quit

Who is Not Suitable for Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation may not be suitable for every patient due to certain health conditions and special circumstances. Risk factors should be carefully evaluated for a safe surgical experience. A comprehensive health screening is performed before surgery to prevent possible complications.

Ineligible candidates:

  • Active breast cancer patients
  • Pregnant or lactating women
  • Those with untreated breast infections
  • Patients with uncontrolled diabetes
  • People with serious heart and lung diseases
  • Those with bleeding disorders
  • Individuals under 18 years of age
  • Connective tissue disease
  • People diagnosed with body dysmorphic disorder
  • Patients with unrealistic expectations

Is Breast Augmentation Surgery a Permanent Solution?

Breast augmentation surgery offers a long-lasting but not lifelong solution. The average lifespan of modern silicone implants varies between 10-15 years. It is generally recommended to replace the implants after 15 years. In procedures performed with the fat transfer method, the permanence of the results depends on the retention rate of the transferred fat tissue. Long-term success can be achieved with regular controls and revision operations when necessary.

Factors affecting permanence:

  • Implant technology and quality
  • Patient's lifestyle and activity level
  • Changes in body weight
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Surgical technique used
  • Elasticity and quality of the tissue
  • Compliance with regular check-ups
  • Implant care and protection measures
  • Trauma and exposure to external factors

What are the Alternative Methods to Breast Augmentation Surgery?

There are non-surgical methods alternative to breast augmentation surgery. However, the effectiveness and results of these methods are more limited than surgical intervention. Each alternative method has its own advantages and limitations. The method to be chosen should be based on the person's expectations and medical condition.

Main alternative methods:

  • Vacuum assisted breast augmentation systems
  • Exercises to develop the pectoral muscles
  • Natural herbal supplements and creams
  • Push-up bras and special padding systems
  • PRP applications
  • Mesotherapy procedures
  • Hyaluronic acid injections
  • Hormone therapies (under doctor's supervision)

What are the Prices of Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation surgery prices vary depending on many different factors. While determining the price, factors such as the location of the hospital, the experience of the surgeon, the brand of implant used and the operation techniques are taken into consideration. Operations performed in hospitals approved by the Ministry of Health, with up-to-date technology and quality materials may be higher in terms of cost.

Factors affecting the price:

  • Selected implant brand and features
  • Hospital quality and location
  • Surgeon's experience and expertise
  • Anesthesia method
  • Operating room conditions
  • Length of hospital stay
  • Necessary examinations and tests
  • Control sessions
  • Special patient requests and additional applications
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