Termin

Gain Confidence: Everything You Need to Know About Breast Augmentation

Jonathan J. Redeker, MD

July 6, 2024

What is breast enlargement?

Breast augmentation is an aesthetic procedure that aims to reshape the breasts and improve their appearance to achieve a more balanced and proportioned bust. During this elective surgery, which is medically known as breast augmentation, implants that are either filled with a saline solution or made entirely of silicone are often inserted either behind the mammary gland tissue, partially under the pectoral muscles or under the muscle membrane (fascia).

Am I suitable for breast enlargement?

The ideal candidate for breast augmentation is a woman who wants to improve her appearance and self-esteem. Unfortunately, perfection and symmetry are not always possible. You must be physically healthy, have no active infections or previous illnesses such as clotting disorders and be willing to minimize smoking. Mental health is also of paramount importance as the procedure can permanently alter one’s appearance, which requires a healthy attitude and realistic expectations.

Requirement

The prerequisite for breast enlargement is complete breast development and a minimum age of 18 years. After surgery, adequate recovery time and some limitation of physical activities are required.

Premium implants

The choice of implant type, size, location of the scar and the layer in which the implants should be placed are discussed during the consultation. We offer breast implants from all leading manufacturers such as: Polytech, Motiva, Sebbin, Mentor and GC Aesthetics.

Autologous fat transplantation

Alternatively, it is possible to remove fat from different areas of the body, a procedure known as breast augmentation with fat or lipofilling.

Breast lift

If your breasts are sagging, I may recommend a breast lift along with augmentation (augmentation mastopexy).

Personal treatment from A to Z

I will personally guide you through the entire process, ensuring a thorough understanding of the procedure and an individualized approach to achieve the desired result.

What can you expect from the consultation?

During the consultation it is important to let me know your goals and expectations to ensure they are specific while remaining realistic. Be prepared to discuss your entire medical history, including breast biopsies, allergies, previous treatments, surgeries, and current medications. Any family history of breast cancer and the results of preventive examinations are also discussed. This information is very important for comprehensive advice . I conduct a thorough examination, taking into account factors such as the size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin, and the position and size of your nipples and areolas

Diagnostics

Sometimes I may request a breast ultrasound or mammogram to assess the health of your breast.

How is the operation performed?

The procedure for inserting and positioning breast implants depends on your individual anatomy and your preferences. I will work with you to determine the appropriate breast size, location of incisions, and location of implants. The incisions can be made in various places, for example in the breast crease or around the areola, with care being taken to ensure that the scars are as visible as possible.

Technology

I typically use the incision in the inframammary fold because this is where the risk of malposition, bacterial contamination, and capsular contractures (scar tissue that deforms the shape of the breast) is lowest. Through 30-40 mm long incisions, I lift the breast tissue and skin, creating symmetrical pockets. The implants are then inserted using a “minimal touch” technique. It is performed under general anesthesia to ensure a painless and safe procedure. The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. I generally avoid drains.

What are the benefits of breast enlargement?

  • Improved self-confidence
  • Enlarged breast projection
  • Tailored implant selection and sizes
  • Restoring breast firmness after pregnancy or weight fluctuations
  • Possibility of combining with other procedures such as breast lift
  • Correction of breast asymmetry
  • Implants can be removed or replaced later at will

What are the main risks of breast enlargement?

  • Postoperative bleeding (very rare)
  • Infection (extremely rare)
  • Temporary changes in nipple and breast sensation
  • asymmetry
  • Changes in implant position (very rare)
  • Rupture of the implant (very rare)
  • Capsular contracture (rare)

How does recovery work?

After breast enlargement with implants, you must expect some physical limitations in the first one to two weeks after the procedure. You can go home on the day of surgery and have mild to moderate pain, which can be adequately treated thanks to my “Rapid Recovery Breast Augmentation Protocol” with paracetamol and ibuprofen. A compression bra is worn for 4-6 weeks to support the breast and aid healing. In the following days after surgery, it is important to seek help as surgery may temporarily limit your ability to lift heavy objects during the recovery period. Light exercise can usually be resumed within 48 hours, while I advise against more strenuous activity for two to six weeks, depending on the type and intensity. During the consultation you will receive specific instructions for the period after the operation. It may take weeks or months to fully realize the benefits of breast augmentation, but get ready for feelings of happiness and maybe some new clothes! It is my job to accompany and support you as best as possible in achieving your goals!