Breast augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery procedure with millions of women of all ages choosing this solution annually for personal reasons, often stemming from a desire to enhance their sense of femininity, confidence and body image.
The reasons that prompt women to undergo breast augmentation are many and varied. Some of the most common reasons include the following:
Breast Augmentation
1-2 hours
To increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts
Breast
Small or asymmetrical breasts
Implantation of silicone or other types of implants to increase breast volume
General
1 week for return to daily activities, full recovery in 4-6 weeks
Enhanced breast size and shape, improved symmetry
Indicative price (you could specify the cost range or average price here)
Breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure that can provide significant improvements in women's appearance and quality of life. Some of the benefits of modern breast augmentation include:
For more information on the benefits of breast augmentation, visit our article: The Multiple Benefits of Breast Augmentation.
Together we choose the breast and inlay that's right for you
During the pre-operative consultation, your plastic surgeon will perform a physical exam, take your history, and ask you questions about your expectations for the procedure.
A pinch test is then performed, which is the first step in the preoperative evaluation process for breast augmentation, where the density of the breast tissue is assessed and the breast site where the implants will be placed is selected. The plastic surgeon manually palpates a small amount of tissue on the upper part of both sides of the breast to check the elasticity of the skin. He then measures the thickness of the tissue to the nearest 0.5 cm. Taking this information into account, the surgeon will choose the technique and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.
If the tissue thickness is greater than 1 cm, it is usually recommended to place the implants under the mass gland or under the fascia of the muscle. This tissue thickness provides a natural base for the implants and minimizes the risk of scarring and abnormal implant movement. Placement under the fascia is preferred because it provides additional coverage of the implant.
If the tissue thickness is less than 1 cm, it is recommended to place the breast implants over the pectoralis muscle in either a subfascial or dual plane plane to avoid visibility. This option is recommended for people with very thin pectoral tissue, as it will provide a more natural and smooth appearance.
In addition to the pinch test, there are other factors that are taken into consideration when choosing the appropriate implant, which include
Through this process we ensure the ideal surgical design for you with a result that meets your expectations.
During your preoperative consultation, we will offer you the opportunity to try different sizes and shapes of implants so that together we can find the ideal result. With the help of special prosthetic pads placed on your breasts, you will be able to see in the mirror how the implants will look from different angles. We will guide you through various postures and body movements so that you can get a better idea of the final result.
Once we've come up with the implants that fit you, using the innovative Crisalix artificial intelligence program, we will create a three-dimensional (3D) simulation of your breasts, taking into account your own anatomical proportions and desires according to the measurements we have taken. In this way, you will know in advance how your new breasts will look with photos that we will give you to study at your leisure at home or to get the advice of your friends.
The final choice of implant will be confirmed on the day of surgery, where we will place special test implants in the pouch we create in the breasts to check the volume and weight before the regular implants are placed.
There are three basic techniques:
The dual plane technique is the latest and most advanced breast augmentation technique, as it combines the advantages of both sub-periosteal and sub-periosteal placement and can be tailored to each patient's needs. It is performed through an incision under the nipple or under the armpit, through which we place the implants in two planes: partially under the pectoralis major muscle in the upper part and the lower pole under the mass gland. As the implants are partly protected by the muscle and partly by the gland, we achieve greater support, a feeling of comfort and a richer, more natural result with a 2 to 3cm lift of the breast.
The method has a high level of safety, as it reduces the risk of complications such as ricnotic capsule development, visibility or palpation of the implant, implant displacement and disruption of breast imaging during digital mammography. Also, an important advantage is the faster recovery compared to the other methods, and the fact that the mass gland remains intact, which means that there is no problem with the ability to breastfeed.
The procedure is more complicated than the other techniques and requires particular skill and expertise on the part of the surgeon, since the creation of two pockets for the implants carries a risk of bleeding or infection and, in addition, the excision of part of the mass gland must be done in a way that does not interfere with breastfeeding.
The subfacial breast augmentation technique is a relatively recent technique that combines the advantages of subfascial and subpectoral placement and is recommended for women who have a sufficient breast volume with little breast drop.
The surgeon makes an incision under the fascia of the pectoralis major muscle and creates a pocket under the mass gland where the implant is placed. This provides more support for the insert. The fascia of the pectoralis major muscle then covers the implant.
As a result, we get a more natural and smoother appearance as the implants are covered by the natural breast fat. The procedure should be performed by an experienced surgeon, as there is a greater risk of the implants slipping or rotating due to the fact that they are not fully covered by the muscle.
The implant is placed under the mass gland but above the pectoral muscle. This technique is less common than the other methods of implant placement.
It is usually recommended for people with very thin chest tissue, because placement under the muscle may be difficult or impossible when there is insufficient tissue to provide a natural base for the implants.
It is a good option for people who have had previous breast surgery, such as mastectomy or lumpectomy. In these cases, the surgeon's experience is important because placing the implant under the muscle may be more difficult or cause tissue damage.
This technique is more invasive than submuscular or subperiosteal placement, but in a small and sagging breast it can provide a full and natural result.
The implants are placed under the pectoral muscle through an incision made under the nipple or under the armpit. The surgeon creates a pocket under the pectoral muscle and places the implant in it. The muscle is then sutured around the implant to hold it in place, which reduces the risk of slipping or rotation.
The technique is not suitable for all patients. For example, patients with weak pectoral muscles may not be suitable. In addition, recovery is usually slower than other techniques and the risk of complications is higher, making it difficult to choose the method.
Fat transfer is a good option for women with small breasts or for women who have had previous breast surgery. Autologous fat can be used for augmentation without implants, to cover imperfections after ricinous capsule development or for additional implants coverage in cases of large augmentation with very thin patient skin.
A prerequisite for breast augmentation using fat is that the appropriate amount of fat must be present in the patient's body in the area from which the fat will be taken. The disadvantage of the technique is that a very large breast augmentation cannot be performed and also over time a percentage of the fat will be absorbed resulting in a change in breast size.
The procedure is usually completed in two stages, with an interval of 6 months. In the first stage, fat transfer is performed and after an assessment of the result, it is decided whether additional fat transfer will be needed in a second stage.
Simultaneous breast augmentation and breast lift is a good option for women who wish to correct breast sagging while increasing breast size and firmness. This can be achieved in a single surgery or two with a minimum of 6 months between each. We usually choose to perform the surgery in one stage, informing the patient that a second minor surgery may be required to correct any imperfections or asymmetries. In most of our patients' cases, the option of augmentation with lift in one surgery is done without problems and without the need for reoperation.
Breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure that can provide significant benefits to women's appearance and quality of life. Some of the benefits of breast augmentation include:
Breast augmentation can be performed through three different incisions: the submast, peritoneal and axillary incisions. The choice of incision depends on several factors, such as the size and shape of the breast, the amount of breast tissue and the desired location of the implants.
Submammary incision: Done in the submammary crease, under the breast, it is safe, effective and heals quickly. The incision is usually about 4 cm long and heals well so that it is not visible.
Peritoneal incision: Performed around the nipple; applied to women with small breasts or women who wish to combine breast augmentation with a minor lift. It is shorter than a submastectomy, but can affect the sensation of the nipple.
Cervical incision: Done under the armpit is the main option because the scar is not visible. It requires skill from the plastic surgeon because it may affect the sensitivity of the nipple especially in women with small breasts.
All incisions heal over time, leaving an almost indistinguishable fine line.
Silicone, saline (saline) and polyurethane implants are already available. Only silicone implants are approved in Europe, which are divided into two categories according to their surface area.
Silicone, saline and polyurethane implants are already available. Only silicone implants are approved in Europe, which are divided into two categories depending on their surface area.
Breast inserts according to their shape are easier to use because they are more delicate and less costly.
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The type of implant, type of incision, placement site and the patient's overall health can affect the lifespan of breast augmentation implants. Although implants do not have an expiration date, over time they may become prone to rupture, capsular hardening or shifting with changes in breast shape or size. Usually after 10 - 15 years they will need to be replaced. It is important every 1 - 2 years to have a regular check-up with your plastic surgeon and inform them immediately of any changes you notice in your breasts.
After the procedure, the plastic surgeon will place a bandage on your breasts, which will be removed after 1 - 2 days. Then for 15 - 20 days you will wear a sports elastic bandage with no bandages or reinforcements to hold the breast in a stable position during healing.
During the procedure, general anesthesia ensures that you will not feel any pain. After the procedure, you may feel discomfort around the breasts, incision and underarms. The pain is usually mild to moderate and easily tolerated with painkillers given by the surgeon. It is recommended that you apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain, rest and avoid activities that may injure the breast. When lying down, keep your head up and wear the bandage or sports bra that supports the chest. If the pain is severe or any symptoms persist, such as redness, swelling or discharge from incisions or other concerns, contact the doctor.
How your breasts will look after breast augmentation over time depends on a number of factors, including age, skin quality, where the implants are placed, and the size and type of implants.
Skin elasticity decreases with age and after some years the implants become visible. Also large implants may put more pressure on the skin and thus become visible.
Sagging and drooping of the breasts, with or without implants, is to be expected over time.
Such problems are resolved with corrective surgery or even removal of the implants.
Breast augmentation, like any surgery, can have several side effects. Usually, the complications are mild, transient and involve,
● Pain
● Swelling
● Numbness
● Tenderness
● Effusions
● Erythema
Quite rarely more serious complications have been reported, such as infection, bleeding, blood clot, implant rupture, hypesthesia, scar malformation, which are all transient and treatable.
Choosing the appropriate implant size for breast augmentation depends on your personal expectations and your anatomy. For example, you may want more natural or fuller breasts, but this may not suit your body type. Your plastic surgeon will advise on the right implant for you based on your age, skin quality, the size and shape of your chest, the amount of glandular tissue, and the position and size of your nipples.
Dr. Ioannis Dalianoudis is an experienced plastic surgeon, a graduate of the University of Ioannina with a professional career that includes work in several countries, including France, Denmark and Ireland. Specializing in plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, he trained in Germany in facial cosmetic surgery. He has performed a variety of procedures including eye surgery, facelift, rhinoplasty, bariatric surgery recovery and body contouring. In addition, he is a member of the "European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS)" and is dedicated to patient satisfaction, making him a trusted choice for plastic surgery seekers. His dedication to patient satisfaction, his expertise and his vast experience in the Greek and international arena make him a reliable choice for those looking for plastic surgery.
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