Breast Augmentation
Having beautiful, well-shaped breasts is undoubtedly something many women wish for. This is why many women today choose breast augmentation surgery.
Who is breast augmentation for?
- Women who have had small breasts since puberty
- Patients who have had children or lost a significant amount of weight
- Patients who have lost their breasts as a result of breast cancer
- Patients with congenital conditions resulting in absent, small or asymmetrical breasts
- Patients who are unhappy with their breast size and would like larger breasts
The operation is performed to create more symmetrical, voluminous, fuller and more lifted breasts.
Silicone breast implants are the most suitable and healthy solution for small breasts. Augmentation using the patient’s own fat can also be considered, but it is generally not preferred because the fat may be reabsorbed, leading to a loss of volume. The most suitable candidates for breast augmentation with fat injection are patients with a higher proportion of body fat, as this approach also reduces fat in specific areas of the body.
What kind of implants are used in breast augmentation?
There are 2 types of silicone implant: teardrop (anatomical) and round. The choice of implant is based on the patient’s chest structure, height, the relationship between the shoulders and torso, the breast skin, the patient’s wishes and the surgeon’s assessment. Breast implants consist of an outer silicone shell filled with silicone gel. The shell may have a textured or smooth surface, and implants are available in various sizes in terms of volume, base diameter and projection.
With FDA-approved implants manufactured using the latest technology, the likelihood of any health problems after breast augmentation is very low. Studies have found no link between silicone implants and breast cancer. Breast implants can be used for many years and do not need to be replaced unless a problem occurs.
Can women breastfeed after breast augmentation?
This is one of the questions women ask most often. Many young women who have not yet had children hesitate to have breast augmentation for this reason. However, research has shown that implants do not prevent breastfeeding.
How is breast augmentation performed?
The operation takes about 1–2 hours. The patient is discharged on the same day or after one night in hospital.
Depending on where they are positioned, silicone implants are placed using one of 3 methods: beneath the muscle (the pectoralis major), above the muscle, or partly beneath and partly above the muscle (dual plane).
The implant is most often inserted through the fold beneath the breast and, less frequently, around the nipple, through the armpit or through the navel area.
Breast augmentation can also correct very mild sagging. However, for moderate or advanced sagging, it is advisable to combine it with a breast lift.
What should I pay attention to after surgery?
Some pain is likely during the first 2 days, slightly more so with implants placed beneath the muscle, and it can be relieved with the painkillers prescribed after surgery. Swelling and bruising appear in and around the breasts and usually disappear within 2 weeks. However, it takes between 6 months and 1 year for the swelling to subside completely and for the breasts to take on their final shape.
If the patient does not do very heavy work, they can return to work and normal life 3 days after surgery. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about a month.
What are the risks of surgery?
Bleeding and infection related to surgery are rare but can occur. Some patients may experience reduced or increased sensation in the nipples, which is usually temporary.
The body forms a membrane-like layer around the implant called a capsule. While this membrane is thin, it causes no problems. In some patients, however, the capsule may thicken to a moderate or advanced degree, in which case a second procedure may be needed.
Implant rupture is unlikely except in cases of serious chest trauma, such as a car accident, a fall from a height or a stab injury.