Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most frequently preferred operations in female body aesthetics. It is performed to increase breast volume, compensate for volume loss that occurs after childbirth or weight loss, or correct natural asymmetry. In this guide, we cover how breast augmentation surgery is performed, implant types, the recovery process, and factors that determine prices.
What Is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast augmentation is a procedure to increase breast volume by placing silicone or saline prostheses in the chest area or by applying fat transfer. The most common method is the use of silicone gel prostheses. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ulaş Bali evaluates each patient’s body structure, chest wall anatomy, and aesthetic goals, aiming to achieve natural and balanced results.
Silicone vs. Saline Implant Differences
Silicone gel prostheses offer the closest feel and appearance to natural breast tissue; therefore, they are the most preferred implant type today. Saline (salt water) prostheses offer the advantage of volume adjustment during surgery, but may feel slightly different from silicone to the touch. Both types are safe; the choice is made based on the patient’s anatomy, skin thickness, and aesthetic expectations.
Prosthesis Shape and Placement
Prostheses can be round or anatomical (teardrop) shaped. Round models provide upper breast fullness, while anatomical (teardrop) models create a more natural profile. Placement location also affects the result: the prosthesis can be placed under the muscle (submuscular) or above the muscle (subglandular). Submuscular placement offers a more natural appearance and lower capsular contracture risk; however, which method is appropriate varies according to body structure. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ulaş Bali determines the most suitable prosthesis type, size, and placement plan together with the patient during the examination.
Surgical Process
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and generally lasts between 1 to 2 hours. The incision is made through one of several options including the inframammary fold, around the areola, or the armpit; the most common choice is the inframammary fold because it is well-concealed and advantageous in terms of surgical access. Patients are typically discharged the same day or the next day after surgery.
Recovery Process
Rest is recommended in the first week after surgery; swelling, tenderness, and tightness are normal. The use of a sports bra or compression bandage is necessary for controlling swelling and ensuring the implant settles into the correct position. Most patients can return to their daily activities within 1-2 weeks; heavy exercise and upper body movements are started after 4-6 weeks. The final shape usually becomes clear within 3-6 months.
What Factors Affect Breast Augmentation Prices?
Breast augmentation prices vary according to factors such as the implant type and brand, the scope of the surgery (standalone or combined with lift), the surgeon’s experience and clinic equipment, anesthesia and hospital stay durations, and post-operative care requirements. It would not be appropriate to give a fixed price; the exact cost becomes clear after a detailed examination and personalized surgical plan.
Can Breast Augmentation and Lift Be Done Together?
Especially in women who experience both volume loss and sagging after childbirth or breastfeeding, breast augmentation and breast lift (mastopexy) can be combined in a single session. This approach both increases volume and reconstructs the breast shape. Breast aesthetics is also one of the procedures frequently included in mommy makeover planning.
Pre-Operative Considerations
Quitting smoking at least 4 weeks in advance, adjusting blood-thinning medications, and general health evaluation are the basic pre-operative steps. Realistic expectations are the most important component of a successful outcome. During the consultation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ulaş Bali helps the patient visualize their expectations through 3D simulation or sizer trials for implant size.
Life After Breast Augmentation
Once recovery is complete, increased breast volume and improved symmetry positively reflect on daily life. Greater comfort in clothing choices, balance in body proportions, and increased self-confidence are the most frequently expressed benefits. Regular check-up appointments (usually once a year) are recommended for patients with prostheses; during these check-ups, the condition of the prosthesis and breast health are evaluated. A healthy lifestyle and appropriate undergarment use are beneficial for long-term maintenance of results.
Common Concerns About Breast Augmentation
Among the most frequently expressed concerns before the decision to undergo surgery are whether the prosthesis will look natural, whether it will affect breastfeeding, and the lifespan of the prosthesis. Natural appearance is largely achieved with the correct implant size, shape, and placement selection; therefore, planning during the consultation is of critical importance. Breastfeeding is not affected in most cases; however, the incision site and technique are determining factors. Modern silicone implants are long-lasting but do not offer a lifetime guarantee; transparent information on this matter is the foundation of a reliable patient-surgeon relationship.
Breast Augmentation with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ulaş Bali
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ulaş Bali has made it a principle to achieve natural and balanced results in breast aesthetic surgeries. Each patient’s body structure, chest wall anatomy, and aesthetic expectations are individually evaluated. The prosthesis size, shape, and placement plan are determined together with the patient during the examination; 3D simulation and sizer trials help the patient visualize their expectations. The recovery process and results are closely monitored through regular post-operative check-up appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do breast implants last?
Modern silicone implants are long-lasting; however, a lifetime guarantee is not provided. Regular check-up appointments are recommended.
Does surgery affect breastfeeding?
In most cases, it does not; however, the incision site and implant placement may be determining factors. This matter is evaluated in detail during the consultation.
Will there be scarring after surgery?
The incision scar is hidden in the inframammary fold or around the areola; it fades significantly over time.
Why does the price vary per patient?
Implant type, scope of surgery, need for combined procedures, and hospital conditions are the main factors determining price.
When do results become final?
Implant settling and swelling resolution generally takes 3-6 months; the final shape becomes clear during this process.