Breast Augmentation : what is it?
Breast augmentation increases breast volume and balances body proportions. Volume can be created with a silicone implant or by transferring the patient’s own fat. The most common reasons are loss of volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding, a marked difference between the two breasts, or naturally limited breast tissue. The right implant is chosen together, based on chest width, breast base measurements, skin quality and the appearance you want.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- At least 18 years old with breast development complete
- Unhappy with limited volume or a noticeable difference between the breasts
- Loss of volume and fullness after pregnancy and breastfeeding
- No active breast disease and up-to-date screening
- Able to stop smoking before and after surgery if you smoke
How is it performed?
The implant can be placed through three incisions: the inframammary fold, the edge of the areola or the armpit. The inframammary fold is used most often; the scar sits within the natural crease.
The implant is placed under the breast tissue, under the muscle, or between the two (dual plane). Where breast tissue is thin, a submuscular or dual plane position is preferred so that the edges of the implant are not visible.
Fat transfer is an alternative for those who want a limited increase without a foreign material: fat harvested by liposuction is processed and transferred to the breast. Some of the transferred fat is absorbed in the first months, so a second session is occasionally needed.
Recovery
The timeline below shows an average course. Your personal recovery depends on your age, skin quality, smoking and the extent of the operation.
There is a feeling of pressure and tightness across the chest; this is more pronounced with submuscular placement. A sports bra is fitted immediately after surgery.
Arms are not raised above shoulder height and nothing heavy is lifted. Pain decreases markedly after the first 48 hours. Desk workers return to work within 3 – 5 days.
The sports bra is worn day and night for 4 – 6 weeks. Light cardio is allowed from week 4; chest and upper-body weight training waits 6 – 8 weeks.
The implant settles fully into its pocket and the breasts soften from their initially high position into a natural one. The final appearance emerges in this period.
Possible risks
Every surgical procedure carries risk. Knowing them is not meant to frighten you but to let you decide with full awareness. Each point is discussed individually at your consultation.
- Bleeding, infection, seroma (fluid collection)
- Capsular contracture: hardening of the tissue around the implant
- Temporary or permanent change in nipple and skin sensation
- Asymmetry, implant displacement or a visible implant edge
- The possibility that the implant will need replacing during your lifetime
- Fat absorption and cyst formation with fat transfer
This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. The method that may apply to you, the expected outcome and the risks can only be determined after a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Do silicone implants prevent breastfeeding?
Generally not. The chance of affecting the milk ducts is slightly higher with incisions at the areolar edge; if you plan to breastfeed, the incision is chosen accordingly.
How long does an implant last?
Implants have no automatic expiry date, but they are not considered lifelong either. If a problem develops over the years or the appearance changes, replacement may be needed.
Do implants increase the risk of breast cancer?
Current scientific evidence does not show that implants increase breast cancer risk. An implant does change mammography technique, however, so always tell the radiologist you have one.
Fat transfer or implant?
If you want a clear and predictable increase in volume, an implant; if you want limited, more natural fullness and have enough fat to harvest, fat transfer. The decision is made together at your consultation.
