Breast implant surgery is a procedure that involves placing a breast implant in the chest area to increase breast size. Women who have naturally small breast tissue or have experienced loss of breast tissue due to factors such as illness, childbirth, breastfeeding, or weight loss can achieve their desired breast size through breast implants. This not only helps them feel more feminine and attractive but also boosts their self-confidence. Breast implant surgery is one of the most commonly performed and highly successful aesthetic procedures due to its ease of application and the natural appearance it creates.

What is a Breast Implant?

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Breasts, as one of the most important elements of a feminine appearance, are organs that complete aesthetic harmony. Women with naturally small or underdeveloped breast tissue may not only feel insecure in their social lives but also struggle with wearing the clothes they desire. They tend to be more reserved in intimate relationships and may not gain an advantage in visual-focused industries. Accessories such as padded bras or cosmetic enhancements used to make the breasts appear larger do not create a natural look. The only effective, safe, and healthy way to achieve firm, full, and natural-looking breasts is through breast implant surgery.

Who is Suitable for Breast Implants?

Women who desire larger breast size are suitable candidates for breast implant surgery. Breast implants are appropriate for the following individuals:

  • Those whose breast tissue remains small due to genetics
  • Individuals with congenital breast underdevelopment
  • Those with asymmetric breasts
  • Individuals who have undergone a mastectomy
  • Women who have experienced breast shrinkage due to childbirth, breastfeeding, illness, or aging

Before the breast implant surgery, a patient’s medical history is reviewed, and various tests and examinations are conducted to ensure there are no contraindications for the procedure. In some cases, a breast ultrasound or mammogram may be required. After all these criteria are evaluated, and if the doctor deems it appropriate, the breast implant surgery is performed.

What are the Types of Breast Implants?

Breast implants are categorized into different groups based on implant size, texture, shape, and content:

  • Breast Implant Shapes: There are two main shapes of breast implants: round and teardrop-shaped implants. Round implants are suitable for individuals who want a fuller, round breast shape, including fullness in the upper part of the breast. Teardrop-shaped implants, on the other hand, are thinner at the top and fuller at the bottom, mimicking the natural contour of the breast. Those who prefer a more natural appearance often opt for teardrop implants.

  • Breast Implant Texture: Breast implants come with either a smooth or textured surface. Smooth implants have a soft texture and easily adapt to body movements. Textured implants, on the other hand, are designed to prevent shifting and reduce the risk of capsular contracture (the hardening of tissue around the implant).

  • Breast Implant Size: Breast implants come in low, medium, and high sizes, which are selected based on the individual’s anatomy and the desired increase in breast size. The choice of implant size is personalized to meet the patient’s aesthetic goals.

  • Breast Implant Content: Breast implants can be filled with either silicone or saline solution. Saline-filled implants consist of a saltwater solution and are rarely used today. Silicone implants, on the other hand, are filled with cohesive silicone gel and are preferred in all modern breast implant surgeries due to their safety and minimal risk.

How is Breast Implant Surgery Performed?

Breast implant surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Prior to the surgery, the selected implant is placed in the breast area according to the planned procedure. The placement location of the implant varies based on the individual’s anatomy. Depending on preference, the implant can be placed under the breast muscle, over the breast muscle, or in the dual-plane position, which involves both under and over the muscle. The incision site is chosen based on the most suitable technique and may be in the armpit, around the nipple, or under the breast. After the implant is positioned, the incision is closed with stitches. Breast implant surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete.

What Methods Are Used to Place Breast Implants?

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Breast implants are placed in the breast area either through an endoscopic method or direct incision. The endoscopic method involves inserting the implant through incisions made in the armpit. With the direct incision method, the implant is manually inserted through incisions made in areas such as the nipple or under the breast.

How is the Recovery Process After Breast Implant Surgery?

After breast implant surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for one night. Dissolvable stitches are used, so there is no need for stitch removal. The patient is discharged the next day with surgical tape over the breast area. During the recovery process, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and numbness. These effects usually subside within a week, after which the patient can return to work. It is recommended to wear a compression bra regularly for one month after the surgery, as it helps shape and support the breasts. The desired breast appearance typically begins to form from the third month onward.

Breast Implant Prices

The cost of breast implant surgery depends on various factors such as the surgical technique, type of implant, brand of implant, materials used, and the doctor’s experience. If the surgery is combined with other procedures, the price may vary accordingly. You can visit our clinic for a consultation to determine if you are a suitable candidate for breast implant surgery and to receive detailed pricing information.

Is Breast Implant Surgery Safe?

All breast implants used in surgery are FDA-approved. Breast implants do not cause cancer. There is no risk of the implant rupturing, tearing, or mixing with breast tissue. Breast implants are considered safe medical devices.

Are Breast Implants Permanent?

Breast implants are made from durable and safe materials using the latest technology. Once placed, breast implants are guaranteed for life and do not need to be replaced or renewed. However, if the patient wishes to have them removed, this can be done through surgery.

Do Breast Implants Affect Breastfeeding?

Breast implants do not interfere with breastfeeding. If the breast implant surgery is not combined with procedures such as breast lift or reduction, the milk glands are not affected. Women can comfortably breastfeed after pregnancy following breast implant surgery.

Can Breast Implants Burst?

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Breast implants do not rupture unless there is an exceptional circumstance such as an accident. In some cases, individuals who have been in accidents may experience leakage due to a puncture or capsule rupture. In such situations, medical intervention is performed to replace the implant. Apart from these rare instances, there is no risk of the implant bursting, melting, or tearing. The cohesive gel coating on the outer surface of the implant provides a protective function, preventing the implant from mixing with the body tissue.

Is Breast Implant Surgery Painful?

After breast implant surgery, once the anesthesia wears off, some pain may be felt. Relief can be achieved through the use of painkillers recommended by the doctor and cold compresses. The post-surgery pain gradually decreases and typically disappears completely within a maximum of 7 days.

Are Breast Implants and Silicone the Same Thing?

While breast implants and silicone are often used interchangeably in everyday language, they are actually different. Breast implants are medical devices used to enlarge the breasts. Silicone, on the other hand, is a flexible, water-resistant, soft material. Silicone gel is the filling material inside the breast implants. Implants with silicone gel provide a natural, flexible, and soft appearance when applied.

dr.leyla arvas
Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS

Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.

This article February 12, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr