Breast Augmentation

What is breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure in which small breasts are given the desired volume and shape using silicone implants and/or fat tissue injections.

What is the purpose of breast augmentation surgery?
The purpose of breast augmentation surgery is to achieve breasts of a more appropriate size and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance instead of small breast tissue.

Is breast augmentation surgery a difficult operation, and how long does it take?
Breast augmentation surgery is not a difficult operation. It is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 1 hour.

How is breast augmentation surgery performed?
In breast augmentation surgery, according to the preoperative markings, a 4 cm incision is made along the breast fold and a pocket is created under the muscle (or above the muscle). The planned silicone implant is then placed into this pocket. Afterwards, the incision is closed in layers. In some patients, drains may be placed to remove excess fluid that may collect in the area, and a compression garment is applied.

What are the possible risks and complications of breast augmentation surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, bruising-swelling, asymmetry and scarring after breast augmentation surgery. These risks will be minimized as much as possible with the appropriate approach of your surgeon and by the patient strictly following the recommendations.

Are there any side effects of breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery does not have any specific side effects, and the surgical risk is not higher than that of other aesthetic surgeries.

Will there be scars after breast augmentation surgery?
In breast augmentation surgery, since the implants are placed through the fold under the breast, a line-shaped surgical scar approximately 4 cm in length forms along the breast fold. These scars fade over time and become much less noticeable. In the long term, the scars become barely visible.

How long do the effects of breast augmentation surgery last, and will I need another operation in the future?
Normally, depending on the shape given to the breast tissue, patients remain satisfied with the results of breast augmentation surgery for many years. However, due to hormonal changes, excessive weight loss or weight gain, aging and pregnancy, the breast tissue may lose its shape over time. Depending on the patient’s preference, procedures such as breast lift surgery or changing the size of the implant may be requested.

What should be done before breast augmentation surgery?
Before breast augmentation surgery, our doctor evaluates the patient and a plan is made regarding the procedure to be performed. The surgery date is decided. As with all other surgeries, smoking should be stopped 2 weeks before surgery. Blood-thinning medications, herbal teas, vitamins and weight-loss medications should not be used starting 1 week before surgery. Only medications that the patient needs to use because of existing diseases should be taken with the doctor’s knowledge. You will be informed about how many hours you need to fast on the day of surgery.

Why is it important to stop smoking before breast augmentation surgery?
Since smoking significantly affects wound healing and may cause risks including nipple loss, it is strongly recommended that you do not smoke for 15 days before and 15 days after surgery. The patient should be aware that smoking is one of the main causes of poor healing.

How should we sleep after breast augmentation surgery?
In order to prevent swelling from increasing and to allow it to decrease over time, you should sleep with your head elevated using 2-3 pillows. During the first weeks, you should not sleep on the implants as this may increase tension. After 2 months, the patient may sleep in any position.

How is dressing performed after breast augmentation surgery?
As long as the tapes applied during surgery are not removed, no additional dressing is required. There may be minimal leakage in the dressing area. Your doctor will check the wounds through the tapes at certain intervals, and the tapes are removed after 20 days. After that, no dressing is required. Your doctor may recommend creams for the wound line.

When can I return to work after breast augmentation surgery?
After breast augmentation surgery, your tissues will have healed sufficiently within 7 days. However, in most cases, completing 10 days is sufficient before going out in public and returning to work.

When can I start exercising after breast augmentation surgery?
For the first 3 days after breast augmentation surgery, you are generally advised to rest, walk around the house and perform simple daily activities. After 3 days, you may take short and careful walks outside. However, lifting weights and strenuous exercise are not recommended during the first weeks. Generally, all types of sports activities are allowed after 2 months.

Will I need to wear a breast compression garment after breast augmentation surgery?
After breast augmentation surgery, a breast compression garment will be applied over the dressing to provide pressure to the area. You should wear the breast compression garment continuously for as long as your doctor recommends. Generally, it is no longer needed after 3-4 weeks.

Will drains be used in breast augmentation surgery?
After breast augmentation surgery, your doctor may sometimes use drains to prevent blood from accumulating in the area. This closed vacuum system removes blood and fluid accumulated under the tissues. The drain is generally removed easily on the third day, so please do not worry.

Will the stitches be removed after breast augmentation surgery?
Since the sutures used in breast augmentation surgery are completely hidden, there is no need for stitch removal.

Is breast augmentation surgery very painful?
After breast augmentation surgery, especially in some patients in whom the implants are placed under the muscle, pain may occur during the first days. This pain generally improves with the use of painkillers. The pain and tightness disappear within days, and regular use of the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers is generally sufficient.

When can I take a shower after breast augmentation surgery?
During the first days after surgery, the wound areas should not be wet. However, since the appropriate time for showering varies according to the condition of the wound, you may take a shower when your doctor gives approval. Generally, showering is allowed after 9 days. Extremely hot or extremely cold water is not recommended during the early period.

When can I swim in the pool or sea after breast augmentation surgery?
It is recommended to wait 2 months before swimming in the pool or sea.

When can I travel after breast augmentation surgery?
After breast augmentation surgery, short-distance road travel can be made after 3 days. For a 1-2 hour flight, it is appropriate to wait until 7 days have passed.

How long should sexual intercourse be avoided after breast augmentation surgery?
During sexual intercourse, blood pressure increases, which may cause unwanted bleeding after surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to wait 3 weeks before sexual intercourse.

When can I start sunbathing or use a solarium after breast augmentation surgery?
After breast augmentation surgery, sunbathing and solarium use are not appropriate for the first 3-4 months because the surgical areas may be affected and the scars may become darker.

Are silicone implants lifelong?
Although silicone implants can be used without problems for many years, it is recommended that they be replaced with new ones after approximately 10-12 years, considering possible deformities.

How much does breast augmentation surgery cost?
In order to provide clear information about the cost of breast augmentation surgery, the patient’s complaints and aesthetic expectations need to be evaluated objectively, and the procedures required need to be determined. Pricing information will be provided after the examination.

If you have any questions regarding surgeries or would like to be evaluated by Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Fatih Söylemez, you can request an appointment via WhatsApp or Contact Form now.