What is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is a surgical procedure that increases breast volume with silicone or fat injection, aiming to balance aesthetic appearance and body proportions.
The most common reason for breast augmentation is dissatisfaction with the patient’s natural breast size or the loss of breast volume and sagging due to childbirth, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations.
The surgery aims to achieve both an aesthetic appearance and a proportionate body shape.
Breast size and shape are determined by the patient’s expectations and the surgeon’s anatomical assessment. Chest wall width, breast base size, skin thickness, and interbreast symmetry are all considered during the planning phase.
Does the patient desire a natural look or a significant increase in volume? This directly influences implant selection. During this stage, trial sizer implants are used to determine the optimal size.
How is Breast Augmentation Surgery Performed?
Breast augmentation surgery typically takes 1.5–2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure consists of four basic steps:
Determining the incision location (inferior to the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit).
Preparing the pocket for the breast implant placement.
Selecting the appropriate size with trial implants.
Placement of the permanent silicone implant and aesthetic closure of the incision line.
After surgery, patients are usually discharged the same day or the following day.
While recovery time varies by individual, a return to daily life is possible within a few weeks.
This procedure is suitable for anyone in good general health, over the age of 18, and with realistic expectations.
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How Long Does Silicone Last?
Silicone implants used in breast augmentation surgery are designed to last a lifetime. However, this doesn’t mean they can be used indefinitely without regular inspection. Like any medical device, silicone implants should be evaluated regularly.
Modern medical silicone implants are made from high-quality, thick silicone called cohesive gel, which doesn’t tear or leak easily. This gel maintains its shape even if the implant shell is damaged and doesn’t spread throughout the body. However, over time, especially after 10 years, microscopic leaks or loss of elasticity may develop in the outer capsule structure.
Expert plastic surgeons recommend annual checkups for silicone implants starting at 10 years. During these checkups:
The integrity of the silicone is assessed with a breast ultrasound or MRI.
The presence of capsule thickening around the implant is checked.
Volume or shape changes are observed.
If any deformation, leakage, or capsular contracture is detected, a silicone implant replacement may be planned. However, this is extremely rare, and most patients can live with their existing silicone implants for decades without any problems.
What are the Types and Features of Breast Prosthesis?
According to Shape
Round implant: The upper part is more prominent, emphasizing the décolleté line.
Teardrop (anatomical) implant: It is closer to the natural breast shape, but the upper part appears less full.
According to Surface Structure
Smooth-surfaced prosthesis: More mobile, less adherence to tissue.
Rough-surfaced prosthesis: Reduces the risk of capsule formation and provides a more stable fit.
By Content Type
Cohesive gel (silicone gel): This is the material closest to the feel of real tissue.
Saline: Rarely preferred; softer but may be susceptible to volume changes.
What is the Post-Breast Augmentation Surgery Process Like?
The first 24–48 hours after surgery are a rest period. Patients can usually return to their daily activities within a few days.
During the recovery period:
A special sports bra should be worn for 2–3 weeks.
Weight lifting, straining arm movements, and lying on the back are not recommended.
Edema and bruising will significantly decrease within 10–14 days.
The final breast shape usually settles within 2–3 months.
Doctor checkups should be performed regularly, and the stitched areas should be kept clean.
Will There Be Any Scars After Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation surgery leaves an incision scar.
However, these scars:
Inframammary fold,
Around the areola,
It is placed in concealable areas, such as the armpit.
The scars fade and become unnoticeable over time during the healing process.
What Should You Pay Attention to During the Recovery Process?
The post-breast augmentation period is just as important as the surgery itself. Following the patient’s recommendations during this period will both accelerate recovery and ensure better long-term aesthetic results.
The first 48 hours after surgery are a critical period during which the body adapts to its new shape. Mild tension, swelling, or soreness are normal during this period. These discomforts can be easily controlled with painkillers recommended by the doctor.
The patient is advised to rest for 1 week, avoid activities requiring physical exertion, and maintain a supine sleeping position.
It is crucial to use a supportive medical bra for at least 3–4 weeks after surgery. This bra helps secure the implants in the correct position and promotes tissue healing. The stitched areas should be kept dry and clean, and the showering time should be determined by the doctor.
During the healing process, smoking and alcohol consumption can negatively affect blood circulation and delay healing. Furthermore, strenuous sports, arm elevations, or weight-bearing are strictly recommended for 4–6 weeks.
Patients can generally return to their social lives within the first two weeks, but final results can take 2–3 months to appear. By the end of this period, the breasts will have regained their natural, soft, and aesthetically pleasing shape.
During this period, regular checkups should be performed by the doctor, and any changes should be immediately reported to the specialist. Proper care and disciplined follow-up will ensure a more natural and symmetrical appearance in the long term.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
When Can I Return to Work After Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Do Silicone Breast Implants Prevent Breastfeeding?
No, silicone implants do not prevent breastfeeding. Breast tissue and milk ducts are not damaged during surgery. Because implants are generally placed below the breast tissue (submuscular or supramuscular), milk production and secretion continue normally. For women planning to breastfeed, the surgical technique should be chosen accordingly.
Will There Be Pain After Breast Augmentation Surgery?
You may feel mild tension and pain in the breasts for the first few days after surgery. This is due to the pressure created by the silicone and the tissues undergoing the healing process. The painkillers and muscle relaxants recommended by your doctor make the process more comfortable. Pain usually subsides significantly after one week.
Do Silicone Implants Explode or Get Damaged?
Silicone implants used today are extremely durable, and a sudden burst is virtually impossible. They undergo high-pressure testing during the manufacturing process. In very rare cases, microscopic leakage or volume loss may occur over time. This progresses slowly and is usually detected during follow-up examinations.