Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty) is one of the most popular and transformative cosmetic surgeries performed worldwide. Whether you desire more volume, want to restore fullness lost after pregnancy or weight loss, or simply wish to achieve a more balanced figure, this procedure offers a personalized solution to boost your confidence.
Turkey has become a premier destination for breast surgery, offering access to world-class surgeons and the highest quality FDA-approved implants (such as Mentor and Motiva) at a fraction of the cost found in Europe or the UK.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases the size and improves the shape of the breasts using medical-grade implants. It is designed to:
- Increase fullness and projection.
- Improve the balance of breast and hip contours.
- Restore volume lost due to aging, weight loss, or breastfeeding.
- Correct natural breast asymmetry (one breast smaller than the other).
Choosing Your Look: Implant Types & Shapes
No two bodies are the same. During your consultation, you will choose the implant that best fits your aesthetic goals.
1. Implant Material: Silicone vs. Saline
In Turkey, we primarily use Cohesive Gel Silicone Implants (often called “Gummy Bear” implants).
- Why Silicone? They feel much more natural (like real breast tissue) and are less prone to rippling than saline (saltwater) implants. They hold their shape perfectly over time.
2. Implant Shape: Round vs. Anatomical (Teardrop)
- Round Implants: These provide fullness in the upper part of the breast (upper pole) and create a more lifted, cleavage-enhancing look. This is the most popular choice for a “perky” aesthetic.
- Anatomical (Teardrop) Implants: These are shaped like a natural breast—thinner at the top and fuller at the bottom. They are ideal for patients seeking the most subtle, natural-looking enhancement.
Implant Placement: Under or Over the Muscle?
Your surgeon will recommend the best placement based on your natural tissue.
- Sub-Muscular (Under the Muscle): The implant is placed partially under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This is the standard for most patients as it provides extra soft tissue coverage, reducing the risk of seeing the implant edges and offering the most natural feel.
- Sub-Glandular (Over the Muscle): The implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue but on top of the muscle. This is sometimes used for women who already have significant natural breast tissue and want a faster recovery (less muscle soreness).
Are You an Ideal Candidate?
You are a good candidate for breast augmentation if:
- You are physically healthy and not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You feel your breasts are too small or have lost volume.
- Your breasts are fully developed.
- You have realistic expectations about the outcome.
The Procedure and Recovery
- The Surgery: Performed under general anesthesia, typically taking 1 to 2 hours.
- The Incision: The most common incision is the Inframammary Incision (in the crease under the breast). This hides the scar perfectly in the natural fold.
- Hospital Stay: You will typically stay 1 night in the hospital for monitoring.
- Week 1: You will experience soreness and a feeling of “pressure” or tightness in the chest, especially if the implant is under the muscle. You will be given a special medical sports bra that you must wear 24/7.
- Return to Work: Most patients can return to desk jobs after 5-7 days.
- Exercise: Heavy lifting and gym workouts must be avoided for 6 weeks.
- Final Result: The implants will sit high and tight at first (the “drop and fluff” phase). They will settle into their natural, beautiful position over the course of 2-3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Breast Augmentation
How long do breast implants last?
Modern implants are incredibly durable. While they are not considered “lifetime devices,” many last 15-20 years or more without issue. You do not need to replace them every 10 years unless there is a problem (like a rupture).
Can I breastfeed with implants?
Yes. In the vast majority of cases, breast implants (especially when placed under the muscle and via the under-breast incision) do not interfere with the milk ducts or the ability to breastfeed.
Will I lose nipple sensation?
Changes in nipple sensation are common immediately after surgery but are usually temporary. Sensation typically returns to normal within a few months as the nerves heal. Permanent loss of sensation is rare.
Can I fly home after surgery?
Yes. We typically require patients to stay in Turkey for 5-7 days post-surgery for check-ups. After your final check-up, it is perfectly safe to fly. The cabin pressure does not affect the implants.