Breast Augmentation with Implants – Initial Consultation
Before the breast augmentation with implants procedure a consultation is necessary, during which the patient selects the implants that suit her and the method of placement. During the consultation the plastic surgeon visualises and proposes the optimal implant size and shape for the patient. At Artisan Clinic we use only implants from reputable manufacturers. We offer implants of various volumes and in different shapes, e.g. round or anatomical. Implants also differ in profile, i.e. the degree of projection. The wide range of implants we use allows selection of the appropriate size, shape, and profile to match the patient's individual preferences and anatomy.
The experience and knowledge of our doctors enable the optimal selection of implants and the method of placement.
The safety of our patients is our priority; each patient meets with the anesthesiologist before the surgery to agree on the details of anesthesia during the procedure.
After the consultation each patient receives detailed preoperative recommendations along with information about the tests she should complete before the procedure.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – Nutritional Recommendations Before the Procedure
To better prepare for the breast augmentation procedure it is also worth following nutritional recommendations. The diet before the procedure must not be restrictive, as protein deficiency impairs healing of postoperative wounds. However, certain modifications are worthwhile. The diet should be easily digestible and fatty products causing bloating should be eliminated. Smoking and alcohol must be stopped completely.
It is also worth paying attention to medications that may cause excessive bleeding, e.g. preparations containing vitamin E, ginkofar, and medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin and its derivatives). It is also advisable to avoid certain spices: chilli, cayenne pepper, garlic, ginger, saffron, onion, celery, and horseradish may increase the risk of bleeding.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – Type of Anesthesia
The breast augmentation with implants procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – Duration of the Procedure
The breast augmentation with implants procedure, from the moment anesthesia is administered to the fitting of the special bra, takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – Course of the Procedure
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The plastic surgeon makes a small incision in the inframammary fold or at the edge of the areola and lifts the pectoralis major muscle, creating a "pocket" in which the pre-selected implant is placed. This location makes the implant less visible and reduces the risk of complications such as capsular contracture, while at the same time making the breasts natural to the touch. After placing the implants the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures and dressings. The procedure ends with the fitting of a special postoperative bra, which simultaneously acts as a dressing and helps achieve the optimal breast shape by shaping and stabilising the implants.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – after the procedure
After the procedure the patient stays for one day under the care of qualified medical staff at Artisan Clinic. Pain, tenderness, and a feeling of pressure in the chest that may persist for several days can be relieved using pain relief medications recommended by the doctor. Some patients report reduced sensation around the nipple. This is temporary and resolves after several months.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – postoperative recommendations
In case of pain it is advisable to use pain relief medications recommended by the doctor.
For 6–8 weeks it is necessary to wear a special postoperative bra to provide stabilisation for the implants.
Postoperative scars after breast augmentation with implants are generally barely visible; however, from the 3rd week after surgery the use of scar patches or scar ointments is recommended. Healing scars should be massaged starting 4 weeks after surgery. Breast massage is also advisable.
Return to work is possible 7 days after surgery, however a break until tenderness at the operated sites subsides is recommended. This occurs after approximately 2–3 weeks.
Physical activity should be limited for 4 weeks. Not raising the arms above the shoulders, avoiding lifting heavy objects, and sleeping on the back are further important postoperative recommendations. Walking should be introduced as soon as possible, as it helps prevent swelling. Cardio sports activity can be resumed 4–6 weeks after the procedure. Return to more intensive exercise should take place after the recovery period has ended (approximately 3 months). Upon leaving Artisan Clinic, each patient receives detailed recommendations for the recovery period.
Recovery time
The final result is visible after approximately 3 months.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – Nutritional Recommendations After the Procedure
The diet after breast augmentation with implants surgery is extremely important, and proper balance ensures supply of nutrients essential for correct wound healing. Meals should be prepared so that they are easily digestible and nutrients well absorbed. The daily menu must include products that are sources of high-quality protein. Zinc, iron, and vitamins also play an important role in the recovery process, so adequate intake in the diet should be ensured.
Breast Augmentation with Implants – Frequently Asked Questions
I am a young mother. How long after giving birth can I have breast augmentation?
After giving birth or finishing breastfeeding, at least 6 months should pass so that the hormonal balance normalises and the breasts reach their stable, final size.
Will I be able to exercise intensively after breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation with implants does not limit sports activity. A full return to an active lifestyle is possible after the recovery period has ended.
Can I fly after breast augmentation with implants?
There are no contraindications to air travel. Flying does not affect the implanted implants.
Can I go scuba diving after breast augmentation with implants?
After implant placement you can enjoy diving without any restrictions.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation with implants?
The implant placement methods used at Artisan Clinic do not deprive future mothers of the ability to breastfeed.
Do implants need to be replaced after some time?
Implants used at Artisan Clinic do not require replacement. Occasionally implant replacement or removal takes place at the patient's request, when observing changes in her own body as a result of ageing she decides on a further improvement of breast appearance due to changing skin properties.
What will the scar healing and care process look like? How will the scars change over time?
Scars after breast augmentation with implants, despite being a few centimetres long, are generally barely visible. Initially the scar is red. The use during this period (from the 3rd week) of silicone patches or scar ointments and laser therapy reduces its visibility. It is also the time for scar mobilisation (after 4 weeks from surgery) to make the incision site more pliable and prevent possible adhesions.
Are there contraindications to breast augmentation with implants?
As with any other surgical procedure, contraindications exist for breast augmentation with implants. They can be divided into absolute contraindications, which exclude performing the procedure, and relative contraindications, which allow it to be performed with special caution.
Absolute contraindications include: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active infection, malignant disease, cardiorespiratory failure, blood clotting disorders, undiagnosed breast lump, silicone allergy.
What types of implants are available?
There are round and anatomical implants. Patients at Artisan Clinic most often choose anatomical implants because they closely resemble the appearance of a natural breast. The wide range of these implants allows individual fitting and ensures patient satisfaction. Anatomical implants vary in width, height, and projection, allowing them to be matched to the patient's height, breast width, and desired bust projection.
All implants have safe silicone filling. They may differ in shell texture and fill level. The decision on implant selection is made by the patient during the consultation with the plastic surgeon.
Can an implant rupture?
Modern implants do not rupture spontaneously. Implant rupture is very rare and is most often caused by mechanical trauma to the chest, e.g. as a result of a car accident. However, stories about leaking silicone in the case of modern implants are a myth. The silicone filling the implant is in the form of a dense gel and, in the event of implant damage, returns to its original shape and does not leave the implant.
