Breast Augmentation

Aesthetic and proportional breast structure is important for many women both in terms of physical appearance and self-confidence. Today, breast augmentation surgeries are among the most commonly preferred aesthetic surgical procedures to achieve fuller, more symmetrical, and body-contour-friendly breast shapes.

Who Is Suitable for Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation surgery may be preferred in the following cases:

• Individuals with insufficient breast development after puberty

• Those who have lost breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss

• Patients who have had breast tissue removed due to breast cancer

• Individuals with underdeveloped, small, or asymmetrical breasts from birth

• Those who are not satisfied with their breast size and desire a fuller appearance

The goal is to achieve a more proportional, voluminous, natural, and symmetrical breast structure.

Methods Used for Breast Augmentation

The most reliable and permanent method to increase breast volume is silicone breast implants. Breast augmentation procedures using the patient’s own fat tissue can also be performed, but the results may be less permanent due to the eventual loss of some fat cells over time.

Fat injection for breast augmentation is suitable for patients with enough fat tissue in their body. In this method, breast volume is increased, and at the same time, contouring is achieved in areas where fat is removed.

Types of Implants Used in Breast Augmentation

Silicone breast implants are generally produced in two forms:

• Round implants

• Tear-drop (anatomical) implants

The choice of implant is determined by the surgeon based on the patient’s breast structure, height, shoulder and torso proportions, breast skin characteristics, and personal expectations.

The outer surface of the implants is made of a silicone shell, while the inner part contains a special silicone gel. There are smooth and textured surface options. With varying volume, base width, and height alternatives, personalized planning is made.

FDA-approved, advanced technology silicone implants have an extremely low risk of health-related complications. Scientific studies have found no connection between silicone implants and breast cancer. As long as no issues arise, breast implants do not need to be replaced and can be used safely for many years.

Can You Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation?

Women who have had breast augmentation surgery can breastfeed. Silicone implants placed with the appropriate surgical technique do not damage the milk glands and do not prevent breastfeeding. Therefore, this is a safe procedure for women planning to have children.

How Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Performed?

Breast augmentation surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours. The patient is discharged on the same day or after one night in the hospital.

Implants can be placed using three different techniques depending on their location:

• Submuscular (beneath the pectoralis major muscle)

• Subglandular (above the muscle)

• Dual plane (partially submuscular – partially subglandular)

The most common incision site for implant placement is the inframammary fold (under the breast). Less commonly, incisions may be made around the areola, in the armpit, or, in special cases, around the belly button.

Breast augmentation surgery can also help lift slightly sagging breasts. However, in cases of moderate or advanced sagging, combining the surgery with a breast lift procedure yields better results.

Post-Surgery Period

In the first 1–2 days, especially with submuscular implants, mild to moderate pain may be felt. This is controlled with prescribed painkillers.

• Swelling and bruising around the breasts may occur

• These symptoms typically subside within 2 weeks

• It may take 6 months to 1 year for the breasts to take their final shape

If the patient is not working in a physically demanding job, they can return to daily life after approximately 3 days. It is recommended to avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for the first month.

Possible Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are rare risks associated with breast augmentation surgery:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Temporary changes in nipple sensation

The body naturally forms a capsule of tissue around the implant. However, in rare cases, this capsule can thicken. In cases of moderate or severe capsular contracture, additional surgery may be required.

Implant rupture is extremely rare and typically only occurs due to serious trauma, such as a car accident, falling from a height, or sharp object injuries.