Breast augmentation – implants and lipofilling
Beautiful breasts are an essential aspect of natural femininity.
Indication
Breast augmentation is a commonly performed procedure in aesthetic plastic surgery. It may be considered when the breasts are perceived as too small in proportion to the rest of the body or have lost volume over time. This can affect overall well-being and self-confidence.
Breast augmentation is a frequently performed procedure in aesthetic surgery. Women of all ages opt for it to improve the natural contours of their breasts and harmonise their figure. It is usually not about extreme augmentation, but about an aesthetic result that harmonises with your figure.
How we do breast augmentations
The procedure begins with detailed planning, taking into account your wishes and individual anatomy to achieve a natural result.
Breast augmentation with silicone implants is performed through an incision in the breast crease or, in rare cases, around the nipple. High-quality silicone implants are used, which are positioned under the muscle skin or partially under the pectoral muscle.
Breast augmentation with autologous fat
Breast augmentation with autologous fat can provide a natural form of enhancement, although the achievable volume is limited and sufficient fat reserves are required. This modern surgical technique leaves only millimetre-sized scars in the liposuction areas, making it aesthetically advantageous for the patient. It offers the benefit of achieving a very natural result while simultaneously removing unwanted fat deposits from the abdomen, back, and legs.
In some cases, a combination of implants and autologous fat may be the optimal solution for breast augmentation.
Aftercare and result
After the operation, a support bra and, in the case of autologous fat transplants, an additional compression garment is required to support the tissues. You may shower again the day after the operation. The wounds are dressed with special sterile dressings. The swelling initially makes the breast appear larger and firmer. After a few weeks, the swelling goes down and the final volume becomes visible.
Find out in a consultation how a customised breast augmentation can fulfil your aesthetic goals.
Summary
Type of intervention
outpatient under general anesthesia
Pain level
low to moderate
Suture removal
resorbable sutures
Scars
in the breast crease, around the areola, or minimal (autologous fat)
Final result
12 months
Return to regular activity
1-2 weeks
Avoid sport
3-12 weeks (depending on the sport)
Cost
from 7 000 CHF
Frequently asked questions about breast augmentation
What is the procedure for a breast augmentation?
On the day of the breast augmentation, you will arrive at the private clinic about an hour before the operation. The operation takes about an hour and a half. You will be allowed to return home a few hours later. An overnight stay at the private clinic is also possible.
Why do we usually make the incision in the breast crease?
Our preference for incisions in the breast crease is based on a worldwide expert consensus that points to increased risks associated with distant approaches. By using a so-called “Keller funnel”, we keep the scars as small as possible.
Are the results of breast augmentation permanent?
The results of breast augmentation with silicone implants or autologous fat are permanent. However, after weight fluctuations, pregnancies or with age, a correction may become necessary over time due to sagging skin.
Does breast augmentation leave scars?
The scar, which is around 2.5 to 4.5 cm long, is placed in an inconspicuous place in the breast fold or on the areola (periareolar). After healing, it is usually barely visible and doesn’t influence the shape of the breast. Breast augmentation with autologous fat leaves scars of up to 5mm in the area of the liposuction.
Do implants have to be replaced after 10 years?
The ability to choose implants from leading manufacturers gives you a wide range of options and lifelong coverage. Implants do not need to be routinely replaced, but regular follow-up examinations, including ultrasound checks, are recommended to detect implant rupture or other abnormalities at an early stage.
Which implants are used?
We use high-quality implants from Motiva, Mentor, Eurosilicone, Sebbin and Polytech made of cohesive silicone gel, which do not leak and provide natural results.
Will the implant be noticeable?
A slight feeling of pressure may occur at the beginning, especially with implants under the muscle. The feeling usually normalises after a few weeks.
What are the risks of breast augmentation?
Risks associated with breast augmentation with implants include general surgical risks as well as specific complications such as capsular contracture, also known as capsular fibrosis. This involves the formation of a connective tissue envelope around the implant, which makes it tighter and can lead to hardening.
What should be considered before and after breast augmentation?
We will of course provide you with comprehensive verbal and written instructions to follow before and after your breast augmentation. Further general information on pre- and post-operative care for breast augmentations can be found in the “For Patients – Resources” section.
How long do the drains remain in place after breast augmentation?
We only use drains in exceptional cases. And if these are necessary, they are removed the very next day.
When can I shower again after breast augmentation?
You may shower again the next day.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation does not affect the ability to breastfeed.
Does breast augmentation lead to an increased risk of breast cancer?
Studies show that non-textured breast implants and autologous fat transplantation do not represent an increased risk of breast cancer.
Why do we only use smooth breast implants?
With textured implants, there is a rare risk of malignant lymphoma (anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALCL) developing over time.
Are breast cancer screening examinations affected by breast augmentation?
No, breast cancer screening examinations are not affected if you have sufficient radiological expertise. Nevertheless, we recommend having an ultrasound scan performed as a baseline finding before the operation. This facilitates the interpretation of future examination findings, especially with anatomically inserted breast implants.
Does the feeling in the nipples change after breast augmentation?
Until most of the swelling has subsided, the sensation in the nipples may be altered
How long will I be unable to work?
Depending on your profession, you should take at least 3 days to 2 weeks off.
When can I do exercise again?
After 3 weeks you can slowly start doing light exercises again, intensive sport should be resumed after 6 to 12 weeks at the earliest, depending on the type of sport. This recovery period is important to minimise the risk of undesirable changes in breast shape after breast augmentation.
How much does a breast augmentation cost?
The costs vary depending on the extent and size of the treatment and start at 7 000 CHF for a breast augmentation with autologous fat and 8 000 CHF for a breast augmentation with silicone implants. We would be happy to discuss the exact costs in a personal consultation.
Are the costs covered by health insurance?
The costs of breast augmentation are not covered by health insurance.