Breast Augmentation Surgery Istanbul

Many women consider undergoing breast augmentation surgery. In some cases, breast development is completely insufficient or less than desired. Some feel that their breasts have always been very small, while others are concerned about changes after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. Regardless of the reason for considering breast augmentation, the most important point is that the decision should be made solely by you. This procedure should not be considered to please someone else. Additionally, as with all aesthetic surgeries, it is important to remember that these procedures alter the shape of the body but do not fundamentally change your life.

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Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation forms a well-defined group of surgical procedures. Over the past 30 years, more than three million women worldwide have undergone this surgery. Most importantly, the majority of these women are satisfied with the results of the procedure.

With implants, your breasts can be enlarged and corrected. They are also used in cases of sagging, though an additional lifting procedure, called mastopexy, may be necessary. For this application, you can refer to the breast lift section on our website.

The implants used in breast augmentation are either filled with silicone or saline (sometimes saltwater). Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Briefly:

  • Saline implants are quite safe and can be placed with minimal scarring. However, leakage may occur, and they may need to be replaced. Additionally, in thin women, rippling or wrinkling of the breast skin may occur.
  • Silicone gel implants look more natural, and the risk of rippling is lower. Today, most plastic surgeons prefer cohesive (non-flowing) silicone implants. These do not leak even if the outer membrane is damaged. Silicone gel implants require a slightly longer incision for placement.

For years, the media and press have exaggerated questions about the safety of silicone implants. You should discuss any concerns you have with your doctor during consultation.

Breast Augmentation Evaluation (Discussing Your Goals)

A successful breast augmentation begins with careful planning to meet your specific desires. Many decisions must be made: the first is choosing between saline or silicone implants, as explained above.

The second is choosing between round or anatomical (teardrop-shaped) implants. The goal is to provide the most natural-looking breast possible.

Some people feel that round implants create an unnatural upper fullness, while in some cases this is true. However, if you have sufficient breast tissue and are considering moderate augmentation, this issue does not usually occur. For thin individuals with little breast tissue covering the implant, anatomical implants appear more natural.

For those seeking very large breast augmentation, regardless of implant type, achieving a natural look can be difficult, and wrinkling on the sides of the breast may occur, known as traction rippling.

Implant size must also be discussed, as the same implant may look different on two women depending on body type. Your doctor will help guide you in choosing a size that creates a natural and attractive breast appearance.

Other topics for discussion with your doctor include placing the implant under the breast tissue or under the pectoral muscle and choosing the incision site. Submuscular silicone implant placement often provides natural results with minimized risk and is frequently preferred. For a natural and attractive appearance, a dual-plane technique—placing the upper part under the breast tissue and the lower part under the muscle—has been used for years with satisfying outcomes.

Finally, your doctor will discuss the risks and what to expect during recovery.

Expected Procedure Approaches

There are three main approaches for breast augmentation:

  • Inframammary incision: The implant is inserted through a 4–5 cm incision under the breast fold. This is currently the most popular technique.
  • Periareolar incision: Through the lower half of the nipple-areola complex, which must have a minimum diameter of 3.5–4 cm.
  • Transaxillary incision: Through the armpit, which does not allow submuscular placement and is suitable for round implants only.

Regardless of technique, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia. For the first method, an incision is made under the breast, and a pocket is created under the breast tissue or pectoral muscle. Small bleeding points are controlled, and the implant is placed. The incision is closed with absorbable materials under the skin, and a supportive bra or bandage is applied. You will need to bring the supportive bra for your follow-up appointment 5–7 days later, which should be worn day and night (except during bathing) for approximately six weeks.

Postoperative Expectations

Mild tenderness and swelling for a few days after surgery are normal. Some guidelines will be given during this period.

After general anesthesia, mild nausea may occur, which can be controlled with prescribed medications. No oral intake is allowed for the first four hours, but sipping water will help normalize the process. Nurses will assist with care during this period.

The supportive bra should not be removed during the first week unless instructed by your doctor. Special tapes may be used to aid scar healing. Medications should be taken as prescribed, and arm movements may be restricted as advised.

Hematoma (blood collection under breast tissue) may occur in the first 24 hours, so early arm movements should be limited.

Recovery Period

You can usually go home the same day, though it is advisable to have someone accompany you for the first 24 hours.

Early postoperative precautions:

  • Avoid driving for approximately 10 days.
  • Air travel should be delayed for 7–10 days unless in emergencies.
  • Mild pain may occur for a few months but typically subsides.
  • Avoid exercise for about 3 weeks to prevent seroma formation.
  • Initial nipple sensitivity is normal and temporary.

Most common complication: Capsular contracture, where scar tissue around the implant tightens, making it feel firm and noticeable. Modern textured implants greatly reduce this risk. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood.

Additional Considerations

  • Only you should decide on this procedure. The surgeon’s role is to provide objective guidance.
  • Scar evaluation: initially noticeable, fades over time, occasionally thick scars may require special treatment.
  • Routine breast exams should continue.
  • Implants do not pose a health risk.
  • Once fully healed, you can resume normal activities.

Surgery Summary

  • Anesthesia: General
  • Hospital Stay: Not required
  • Suture Removal: Not required (absorbable materials)
  • Return to Work: 3–7 days
  • Full Recovery: 4–6 weeks
  • Postoperative Care: Supportive bra 24/7 first week, then daily for 6 weeks
  • Possible Complications: Capsular contracture, infection, bleeding, asymmetry

Assoc. Prof. Dr. M. Beşir Öztürk

Specialist in Aesthetic, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery