Breast Augmentation
Beautiful, Natural Breast Augmentation
Designed Around You
Overview
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, helping millions of women enhance their confidence by improving the size, shape, fullness, and symmetry of their breasts. However, modern breast augmentation is no longer simply about increasing breast size. Today’s approach focuses on creating elegant, natural-looking breasts that complement the patient’s overall body proportions while preserving softness, movement, and long-term harmony.
Every woman has a unique body shape and her own definition of beauty. Some women naturally have smaller breasts, while others experience volume loss after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss. Some wish to correct breast asymmetry, while others simply desire a fuller, more balanced silhouette. Whatever your goals may be, breast augmentation should always be personalized to your anatomy rather than based on temporary beauty trends or standard implant sizes.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, we believe that beautiful breast augmentation begins with careful planning. Our surgeons take the time to understand each patient’s anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals before recommending the most suitable implant, surgical technique, and implant placement. The objective is not simply to make the breasts larger, but to create breasts that appear naturally proportionate to the shoulders, waist, hips, and overall physique.
Using advanced surgical techniques together with premium Motiva® and Mentor® silicone breast implants, our experienced surgeons strive to achieve soft, balanced, and natural-looking results that enhance your figure while maintaining elegance and femininity.
Why Breast Augmentation Is So Popular
Breast augmentation has remained one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries worldwide for decades because it offers significant aesthetic improvement while allowing every treatment plan to be highly personalized.
For many women, breast augmentation is about far more than increasing cup size. It is about restoring confidence, improving body balance, and achieving proportions that better reflect how they wish to look and feel.
Women choose breast augmentation for many different reasons, including:
- Naturally small breast size
- Loss of breast volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Volume loss following significant weight loss
- Noticeable breast asymmetry
- Desire for improved upper breast fullness
- Better body proportions
- Enhanced cleavage
- Restoring a youthful breast contour
- Improving confidence in clothing and swimwear
Because every patient has different expectations, our surgeons customize every breast augmentation procedure rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
What Breast Augmentation Can Improve
Breast augmentation is one of the most versatile cosmetic procedures available today. In addition to increasing breast size, it can improve multiple aesthetic concerns simultaneously.
Naturally Small Breasts
Many women are born with naturally small breasts that may not feel proportionate to the rest of their body. Breast augmentation enhances volume while maintaining a natural relationship with the patient’s overall physique.
Volume Loss After Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
Pregnancy and breastfeeding often reduce breast volume, particularly in the upper portion of the breast. Breast augmentation restores fullness, improves projection, and recreates a youthful breast contour.
Volume Loss After Weight Reduction
Significant weight loss can reduce breast tissue and leave the breasts appearing deflated. Breast augmentation restores volume while improving overall body balance.
Breast Asymmetry
No woman’s breasts are perfectly symmetrical. However, some patients experience noticeable differences in size, shape, or projection. Through individualized implant selection and meticulous surgical planning, our surgeons can significantly improve breast symmetry while maintaining a natural appearance.
Loss of Upper Pole Fullness
One of the earliest changes associated with aging is loss of fullness in the upper portion of the breasts. Breast augmentation restores this gentle fullness, creating a youthful yet elegant contour without appearing overly augmented.
Body Proportions
Perhaps the greatest benefit of breast augmentation is improving the balance between the breasts, waist, hips, and shoulders. Beautiful breasts are not determined by cup size alone—they are determined by harmony with the rest of the body.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be an excellent candidate for breast augmentation if you:
- Are physically healthy.
- Have fully developed breasts.
- Wish to increase breast size.
- Desire improved breast shape or projection.
- Have lost breast volume following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
- Have noticeable breast asymmetry.
- Want to improve upper breast fullness.
- Have realistic expectations regarding surgery.
- Desire natural-looking, proportionate results.
During your consultation, our surgeons carefully evaluate your anatomy and discuss your goals before recommending the most appropriate treatment plan.
Breast Augmentation at Sketch Plastic Surgery
Every breast augmentation performed at Sketch Plastic Surgery is individually planned according to the patient’s anatomy rather than relying solely on the requested cup size.
Our surgeons carefully evaluate:
- Overall body proportions
- Height and body frame
- Chest width
- Existing breast tissue
- Skin elasticity
- Position of the nipples
- Breast footprint
- Lifestyle and physical activity
- Desired breast size
- Desired breast shape
- Long-term expectations
This comprehensive assessment allows us to recommend the implant and surgical technique most likely to achieve beautiful, natural-looking, and long-lasting results.
Rather than focusing on making the breasts as large as possible, our philosophy is to create elegant curves that appear naturally balanced with the patient’s entire figure.
The Sketch Philosophy
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, breast augmentation is never about choosing the biggest implant or following short-lived beauty trends.
Instead, we believe that successful breast augmentation should enhance your natural beauty while preserving harmony with your body.
Every patient has unique anatomy, different skin quality, varying amounts of existing breast tissue, and individual aesthetic preferences. For this reason, every breast augmentation performed at Sketch is fully customized.
Our surgeons carefully select the implant size, profile, placement, and surgical technique based on what will create the safest, most beautiful, and most proportionate outcome for each individual patient.
The most successful breast augmentation is often the one that looks and feels so natural that people notice your confidence before they notice your surgery.
Choosing the Right Breast Implant
One of the most important decisions in breast augmentation is selecting the implant that best suits your body. Contrary to popular belief, there is no single implant that is ideal for every woman. The most suitable implant depends on your anatomy, lifestyle, skin quality, existing breast tissue, and the aesthetic result you hope to achieve.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, implant selection is never based solely on cup size or current trends. Instead, our surgeons perform a detailed evaluation of your body proportions before recommending the implant that will provide the safest, most natural, and longest-lasting outcome.
During your consultation, our surgeons carefully assess:
- Height and overall body frame
- Chest width and breast footprint
- Existing breast tissue
- Skin elasticity
- Position of the nipples
- Thickness of the soft tissue covering the implant
- Desired breast size and projection
- Lifestyle and level of physical activity
- Long-term aesthetic goals
Using this comprehensive analysis, we develop a fully customized surgical plan that balances beauty, comfort, and long-term stability.
Premium Breast Implants at Sketch Plastic Surgery
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, we primarily use two of the world’s most trusted and extensively researched breast implant manufacturers:
- Motiva® Silicone Breast Implants
- Mentor® Silicone Breast Implants
Both manufacturers have earned worldwide recognition for their safety, quality, and long-term clinical performance. Rather than believing that one implant is universally superior, our surgeons recommend the implant that best matches each patient’s anatomy and desired outcome.
Motiva® Breast Implants
Motiva® has become one of the most popular premium breast implant brands worldwide and is especially favored by women seeking soft, natural-looking breast augmentation.
Developed using advanced implant technology, Motiva implants are designed to provide a smooth, natural appearance with excellent softness and movement. Their highly cohesive silicone gel allows the breasts to feel supple while maintaining beautiful shape and projection.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, Motiva implants are frequently recommended for patients who desire elegant, natural enhancement rather than an obviously augmented appearance.
Advantages of Motiva® Implants
- Exceptionally soft and natural feel
- Beautiful natural movement with body position
- Excellent long-term shape retention
- Advanced shell technology designed for durability
- Wide variety of implant sizes and projections
- Suitable for many primary breast augmentation patients
- Excellent option for patients seeking subtle and refined enhancement
Because of these characteristics, Motiva implants have become one of the preferred choices for women who want breast augmentation that blends naturally with their overall physique.
Motiva Round implants are designed to provide fuller upper-pole volume and increased breast projection while still maintaining a soft, natural feel.
They are often recommended for patients who desire:
- More noticeable upper breast fullness
- Increased cleavage
- Enhanced projection
- A youthful, rounded breast contour
Depending on the patient’s anatomy, Motiva Round implants can create anything from subtle enhancement to a more defined and glamorous appearance.
Motiva Ergonomix implants are designed to closely mimic the natural movement of breast tissue.
When standing, the silicone gel gently settles toward the lower portion of the breast, creating a naturally sloped contour. When lying down, the implant distributes more evenly, similar to natural breast tissue.
Patients who prioritize softness, natural movement, and subtle elegance often find Ergonomix implants to be an excellent choice.
Mentor® Breast Implants
Mentor® is one of the world’s most established breast implant manufacturers, backed by decades of clinical research and extensive long-term safety data.
Mentor implants are available in a wide variety of sizes, profiles, and projections, allowing surgeons to tailor breast augmentation to many different body types and aesthetic goals.
Depending on the patient’s anatomy, Mentor implants may be recommended for women seeking:
- Greater upper-pole fullness
- Increased projection
- More defined breast contours
- Enhanced structural support
- Specific profile options not suited to every implant type
Mentor implants continue to be a trusted option for women seeking predictable, long-lasting, and beautiful breast augmentation results.
Which Implant Is Better?
This is one of the most common questions we receive.
The truth is that there is no universally “better” implant.
Both Motiva® and Mentor® are premium implants with excellent safety records and outstanding clinical performance. The ideal implant depends entirely on the patient’s body, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, our surgeons do not recommend implants based on popularity alone. Instead, we evaluate your anatomy carefully before selecting the implant that is most likely to produce natural-looking, balanced, and long-lasting results.
Our recommendation is always based on what is best for you, not on a one-size-fits-all approach.
Choosing the Right Implant Size
One of the biggest misconceptions about breast augmentation is that implant selection is based on cup size.
In reality, cup size varies significantly between bra manufacturers and countries, making it an unreliable guide for surgical planning.
Instead, our surgeons determine implant size by considering:
- Chest width
- Breast dimensions
- Existing breast tissue
- Skin elasticity
- Body proportions
- Desired projection
- Long-term tissue support
Selecting an implant that is proportionate to your anatomy helps create a more natural appearance while reducing unnecessary stress on the surrounding tissues.
Rather than simply choosing the largest implant possible, our goal is to achieve breasts that remain elegant, comfortable, and balanced for many years.
The Sketch Recommendation
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, we encourage patients to think beyond cup size.
The most beautiful breast augmentation is not necessarily the largest—it is the one that looks naturally suited to your body.
By carefully selecting the appropriate implant type, size, profile, and surgical technique, our surgeons strive to create results that enhance your confidence while preserving natural proportions, softness, and long-term harmony.
Breast Augmentation Surgery at
Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea
Every breast augmentation procedure at Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea is carefully planned according to the patient’s individual anatomy, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle. Rather than using a standardized surgical technique for every patient, our surgeons customize every aspect of the procedure—from implant selection and placement to incision location—to achieve the safest, most natural, and longest-lasting result.
On the day of surgery, your surgeon will review the surgical plan with you, confirm the implant selection, perform pre-operative markings, and answer any remaining questions before you are taken to the operating room.
Implant Placement
One of the most important decisions during breast augmentation is where the implant will be positioned. The placement of the implant influences the final appearance, softness, recovery, and long-term outcome.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, the appropriate implant placement is determined after carefully evaluating your breast tissue, skin thickness, chest anatomy, and desired result.
The Dual Plane technique is one of the most commonly performed methods for breast augmentation and is often recommended for patients with limited natural breast tissue.
In this technique, the upper portion of the implant is positioned beneath the pectoralis major muscle, while the lower portion sits beneath the natural breast tissue. This combination provides additional soft tissue coverage over the upper part of the implant while allowing the lower breast to maintain a natural shape and movement.
Potential advantages include:
- A more natural upper breast contour
- Better implant coverage in patients with thinner breast tissue
- Reduced visibility or palpability of the implant in selected patients
- Smooth transition between the chest and breast
- Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Because of these benefits, the Dual Plane technique is commonly recommended for many primary breast augmentation patients.
With submuscular placement, the implant is positioned beneath the pectoralis major muscle.
This technique may be recommended for patients with very little natural breast tissue, as the additional muscle coverage can improve the appearance of the upper breast and provide extra support.
Our surgeons will determine whether full submuscular placement or the Dual Plane technique is more appropriate based on your individual anatomy.
There is no single implant placement that is ideal for every patient.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, implant placement is selected only after carefully considering:
- Thickness of existing breast tissue
- Skin elasticity
- Chest anatomy
- Implant size
- Implant type
- Desired breast shape
- Long-term stability
Our goal is always to create breasts that look natural, feel soft, and remain beautiful for many years.
Incision Options
Every breast augmentation requires a carefully planned incision through which the implant is inserted. Our surgeons place great importance on selecting an incision that provides excellent surgical access while minimizing visible scarring.
The most appropriate incision depends on your anatomy, implant selection, and surgical plan.
The inframammary fold incision is made within the natural crease beneath the breast.
This is one of the most commonly used approaches because it provides excellent visibility during surgery, allows precise implant placement, and typically heals with a discreet scar hidden beneath the breast fold.
For many patients, this approach offers the greatest precision and long-term aesthetic outcome.
The periareolar incision is made along the border between the darker areola and the surrounding breast skin.
Because the scar follows the natural color transition, it can become well concealed once fully healed.
This approach may be suitable for selected patients depending on their anatomy and surgical requirements.
Not every patient is a candidate for every incision.
During your consultation, your surgeon will recommend the incision that best balances safety, precision, scar concealment, and your desired result.
Fat Grafting
Although breast augmentation at Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea is primarily performed using premium silicone implants, fat grafting may be recommended in carefully selected situations.
Fat is gently harvested from another area of the body using liposuction, purified, and strategically injected into the breasts to enhance contour or improve soft tissue coverage.
Fat grafting is most commonly considered for:
- Subtle volume enhancement
- Refining breast contours
- Improving the transition around the implant
- Selected revision procedures
Because only a portion of the transferred fat survives permanently, fat grafting generally provides a more modest increase in breast volume than implant-based augmentation. For this reason, implants remain the preferred option for patients seeking significant and predictable breast enlargement.
General Anesthesia
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, breast augmentation is performed under General Anesthesia administered by a qualified anesthesiology team.
General anesthesia allows you to remain completely asleep and comfortable throughout the entire procedure while your vital signs are continuously monitored.
Patient safety is always our highest priority, and our medical team carefully monitors every stage of the operation from induction of anesthesia through recovery.
Procedure Time
The duration of breast augmentation varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and whether additional procedures are performed at the same time.
On average, breast augmentation surgery takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
If breast augmentation is combined with procedures such as a breast lift or fat grafting, the overall surgical time may be longer.
Recovery Room
After surgery, you will be transferred to a dedicated recovery area where our experienced nursing staff will closely monitor your condition as you wake from general anesthesia.
Most patients remain in the recovery room for approximately 1–2 hours, depending on their individual recovery.
Once you are fully awake, medically stable, and comfortable, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions before returning to your accommodation or, if recommended by your surgeon, staying overnight for observation.
Recovery & Downtime
Every patient’s recovery is unique, but most women are pleasantly surprised that breast augmentation recovery is more comfortable than they anticipated.
During the first few days, it is normal to experience:
- Mild swelling
- A feeling of tightness across the chest
- Temporary bruising
- Mild to moderate discomfort
- Temporary changes in nipple sensation
These symptoms gradually improve as healing progresses.
First Week
Most patients spend the first few days resting while taking prescribed medications. Light walking is encouraged to promote healthy circulation, but strenuous activity should be avoided.
One to Two Weeks
Many patients are able to return to office work and other light daily activities within 7–14 days, depending on the nature of their job and individual recovery.
One Month
Most swelling has noticeably improved, and the breasts begin to soften and settle into a more natural position.
Three to Six Months
The implants continue to settle, the tissues relax, and the breasts develop a softer, more natural appearance.
Final Results
Although patients enjoy immediate improvements after surgery, the final results are typically appreciated over 6 to 12 months as healing is completed and the breasts fully settle into their final shape.
Medication & Aftercare
Following surgery, patients are prescribed medications for approximately five days, which may include:
- Antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Pain medication
- Stomach protection medication when appropriate
Our team provides detailed written aftercare instructions covering:
- Sleeping position
- Surgical bra usage
- Showering
- Scar care
- Activity restrictions
- Follow-up appointments
- Warning signs that require medical attention
Carefully following these instructions plays an important role in achieving a smooth recovery and optimal long-term results.
Returning Home
Many of our patients travel to Korea from overseas for breast augmentation.
Before returning home, your surgeon will examine your healing, confirm that you are recovering appropriately, and provide personalized recommendations regarding travel, follow-up care, and activity after you leave Korea.
Our international patient team remains available to answer questions and provide ongoing support even after you have returned to your home country, ensuring that you continue to feel confident and well cared for throughout your recovery journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation
Creating natural-looking results is one of the primary goals of breast augmentation at Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea. By carefully selecting the appropriate implant size, profile, placement, and surgical technique, our surgeons strive to create breasts that complement your body proportions rather than appearing artificial or overdone. Final results continue to improve as swelling subsides and the implants settle into their natural position.
Modern silicone breast implants are designed to closely resemble the softness and movement of natural breast tissue. While the final feel depends on factors such as your existing breast tissue, implant selection, and implant placement, most patients find that their breasts become increasingly soft and natural over the months following surgery.
Modern breast implants are highly durable and are not designed to be routinely replaced after a specific number of years. Many patients enjoy their implants for many years without any problems. However, implants are not considered lifetime devices, and future surgery may become necessary because of natural aging, changes in the breasts over time, implant-related issues, or personal preference.
Regular follow-up examinations and appropriate breast imaging, when recommended, are important for monitoring long-term breast health.
Every surgical procedure leaves a scar; however, our surgeons carefully place incisions in locations where scars are generally well concealed. As healing progresses, scars usually become lighter and less noticeable over time. Proper scar care and following your surgeon's post-operative instructions can further support optimal healing.
Yes. Mild to moderate breast asymmetry can often be significantly improved through individualized surgical planning. Depending on your anatomy, different implant sizes or surgical techniques may be used to achieve a more balanced appearance. While perfect symmetry is not possible because natural breasts are never identical, noticeable differences can often be greatly reduced.
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Many women are able to breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation. However, future breastfeeding cannot be guaranteed, as milk production depends on many factors unrelated to surgery. If you plan to have children in the future, be sure to discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation so the surgical plan can take your future goals into consideration.
Recovery varies between patients and according to the type of work performed. Many patients with office-based jobs return to work within one to two weeks, while physically demanding occupations may require additional recovery time. Your surgeon will provide individualized guidance based on your healing progress.
Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote healthy circulation. More strenuous activities—including weight training, upper-body exercise, swimming, and high-impact sports—should be avoided until your surgeon confirms that healing has progressed sufficiently. Most patients gradually resume exercise over several weeks according to personalized instructions.
Patients are generally advised to sleep on their back with the upper body slightly elevated during the early stages of recovery. Side sleeping is usually introduced only after sufficient healing has occurred and with your surgeon's approval.
Temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation are relatively common during the early healing period. Most patients experience gradual improvement as the tissues recover, although individual healing varies and permanent sensory changes are possible with any breast surgery.
Yes. Breast augmentation is frequently combined with procedures such as a breast lift, liposuction, facial surgery, or body contouring procedures depending on the patient's overall treatment plan. Combining procedures may allow patients to achieve more comprehensive body rejuvenation while undergoing a single recovery period, provided it is medically appropriate.
The recommended length of stay depends on your surgical plan and recovery progress. In most cases, international patients are advised to remain in Korea for approximately 10–14 days to allow for follow-up examinations and early post-operative care before traveling home. Your treatment coordinator will help create a schedule that fits your procedure and travel plans.
Why Choose Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea?
Choosing a clinic for breast augmentation is one of the most important decisions you will make. At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, we are committed to combining surgical expertise with personalized patient care to deliver results that are elegant, natural-looking, and long-lasting.
Our patients choose Sketch because we offer:
- Experienced surgeons specializing in aesthetic breast surgery
- Individually customized treatment plans
- Premium Motiva® and Mentor® silicone breast implants
- Advanced surgical techniques focused on safety and precision
- A philosophy centered on natural proportions rather than excessive enlargement
- Comprehensive pre-operative planning and detailed consultations
- Dedicated English-speaking coordinators and multilingual support for international patients
- Personalized post-operative care and long-term follow-up
- Honest recommendations based on your anatomy and goals
From your first consultation through your recovery, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every patient feels informed, comfortable, and supported throughout the entire surgical journey.
Begin Your Breast Augmentation Journey with Confidence
Breast augmentation is much more than increasing breast size—it is about restoring confidence, improving body harmony, and achieving results that feel naturally your own.
At Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea, every procedure is designed around the individual. We believe that the most beautiful results are those that enhance your natural proportions while reflecting your personal vision of beauty.
Whether your goal is subtle enhancement, restoration after pregnancy, improved symmetry, or a more balanced silhouette, our experienced surgeons are committed to helping you achieve elegant, natural-looking, and long-lasting results.
We invite you to schedule a complimentary online consultation with our experienced medical team. During your consultation, we will carefully evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, answer all of your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you.
We look forward to welcoming you to Sketch Plastic Surgery Korea and being part of your journey toward greater confidence and timeless beauty.
Nowadays, women can change or adjust any part of their bodies that they don’t very much like.
Cosmetic surgeries have made it easier to be more visually appealing and more satisfied with one’s appearance.
Some people may go for a nose job to enhance their facial features. Others, especially Asians, might go for eyelid surgeries to adjust their eyelids and have wider eye fields.
One of the most popular cosmetic surgeries is breast augmentation.
Many women have small breast sizes, and they are not satisfied with it. Maybe they want bigger and fuller breasts for reasons that differ from one woman to another.
Plastic surgery has helped those women to get what they want. Women can get what’s called “breast augmentation surgery”, also known as breast implants or augmentation mammoplasty, to have the look they want and feel better about their appearance.
However, breast augmentation is not considered a cosmetic surgery only. It can also be done for reconstructive purposes such as after mastectomy for breast cancer.
But let us discuss one purpose at a time.
First, let’s dive deeper into breast augmentation for cosmetic purposes.
So, what is breast augmentation again?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure which aims to increase the breast’s size, shape, or fullness. Augmentation can be from the placement of an implant under the breast tissue or chest muscles or less commonly, fat transfer to breast augmentation.
Anatomy and Physiology
The female breast is placed on the anterior chest wall, inferior to the clavicle, between the sternum and the latissimus dorsi muscle. The inframammary fold (IMF), also known as the inframammary ligament, is located on the inferior border. The superficial and mammary fascias fuse to produce this fold, which is a dermal structure.
The pectoralis major and minor muscles create the posterior or bottom border of the breast, which is connected to the superior breast parenchyma. The subdermal plexus of arteries supplies blood, with substantial contributions from the internal mammary artery, the external mammary artery, and the intercostal perforators. The intercostal plexus provides the majority of nerve supply, with the third through fifth intercostal nerves contributing the most.
Why is Breast Augmentation done?
As we mentioned, for some women it is a way to feel more confident about themselves, and for others, it is a way to rebuild the breast for different reasons.
Reasons to Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation might help you in:
- Enhance your appearance if you think your breasts are small or one is smaller than the other, which impacts the way you dress or the size of the bra you use to make them look equal in size.
- Restore breast size after pregnancy, significant weight loss, and breastfeeding.
- Correct uneven breasts after breast surgery for other conditions. In other words, restore the symmetry of the breasts.
- Boost your self-esteem and improve your self-confidence. In 2007, a study by researchers from the University of Florida found that breast augmentations through cosmetic surgery boost women’s self-esteem and their feelings about their sexuality.
Despite all these reasons, breast augmentation is mainly considered cosmetic surgery.
Breast Implants
What is a breast implant?
- It is a medical prosthesis that is placed inside the breast to augment, reconstruct, or create the physical form of the breast.
- Doctors usually use one of three types of implants including saline, silicone gel implants, and alternative composite implants.
- Different types of implants are used as well.
- Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution called saline. The solution is inside a bag or shell made of a specific type of silicon called elastomer silicone.
Saline Implants
- Saline implants can be filled with different amounts of saline to control the feel, shape, and firmness of the breast.
- The FDA has authorized saline breast implants for breast augmentation in women over the age of 18 and for breast reconstruction in women of any age. These implants have a silicone outer shell filled with sterile saline with the following characteristics:
- It might be empty at first (and then filled during the implantation operation) or pre-filled.
- Different sizes are available
- Have smooth or textured surfaces to their shells
- Can be used in conjunction with integrated remote-fill ports: Allow for postoperative modification of implant saline volume as well.
- Less costly than silicone-filled products
- Implant ruptures quickly detectable
- Possible visible implant rippling on surface of augmented breast in women with thin breast tissue
- Saline implants are safe in a way because if they leak, the solution will be absorbed by the body and expelled naturally.
The other type is Silicone-gel Filled Implants
Silicone gel-filled breast implants have been authorized by the FDA for breast augmentation in women aged 22 and above, as well as breast reconstruction in women of any age. These implants have a silicone outer shell filled with different consistencies of silicone gel and have the following features:
- Available in different sizes
- Have smooth surfaces
- More expensive than saline-filled implants.
- They feel more natural than saline-filled implants.
- Less noticeable rippling in thin-skinned augmentations
- Unlike remote-fill ports, they cannot be implanted through a transumbilical incision, but they may be inserted through periareolar, inframammary, and transaxillary incisions.
In this implant, if there is leakage, the gel either stays in the shell or gets out of the shell into the implant pocket. This may or may not lead to implant collapse. Patients who choose this type of implants should check up on the implant more often in comparison to those with saline implants.
MRI and ultrasound scan are used to check the condition of the implant.
The last type of implants, the alternative composite implants, are filled with different types of substances such as polypropylene, soy oil and other materials.
- These implants are typically placed empty, and the surgeon then uses a tiny port to administer the required amount of sterile saline to inflate the implant. After that, the port is withdrawn, and the implant has a self-sealing tab for the port insertion site. Because saline implants generally have a 25 to 50 mL range indicated by the manufacturer, the surgeon has a lot of leeway in filling them to varied quantities.
- Some saline implants are filled by the surgeon during surgery, while others are prefilled by manufacturers; nevertheless, prefilled saline implants are not widely utilized in the United States.
- The implant’s exterior shell might be smooth or textured. Texturing is utilized in shaped implants as well as certain spherical implants. Texturing aids in the prevention of rotation in shaped implants and has been proved in certain studies to reduce the occurrence of capsular contracture when the implant is placed in the subglandular pocket.
- Texturing does not appear to reduce the occurrence of contracture when put in the submuscular pocket.
- The implants can be positioned either above or below the pectoralis muscle. Subglandular and submuscular are other terms for the same thing. Each strategy has merits and downsides.
- The selection is influenced by the patient’s anatomy as well as the surgeon’s inclination. There is no one method of placement that is universally recognized as the best, and this should be established through collaboration between the patient and the surgeon. The inframammary crease, transaxillary, and peri-areolar sites are also common places for access incisions.
- This surgery is most commonly performed under general anesthesia, however it can also be performed under sedation or even local anaesthetic in some instances. Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that typically takes 45 to 90 minutes to complete. Recovery is typically quick, with most people able to return to light work and activities within a week. It may take up to 6 weeks to return to full activities.
Saline Versus Silicone Gel
- When compared to silicone-filled goods, saline implants are less expensive. Some goods can also be filled via a remote port, allowing a surgeon to install them via a transumbilical route. Furthermore, if an implant ruptures, it is generally more obvious. However, in individuals with thin breast tissue, there is a greater risk that implant rippling will be evident on the enhanced breast’s surface.
- In comparison, silicone implants are more expensive, but they are usually thought to have a more natural feel, and rippling in thin-skinned augmentations is less visible. These cannot be implanted through a transumbilical incision, but they may be inserted through periareolar, inframammary, and transaxillary incisions.
How we do Breast Augmentation Surgery?
- The procedure itself will take about one to two hours and is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with oral sedatives. You can discuss this with your surgeon to decide the best type of anesthesia for you.
- Breast augmentation can be done in several ways.
- Your surgeon can access the breast via the incision under the breast, known as the inframammary fold, the areola, known as the nipple incision, or via the armpit which is known as the trans axillary approach.
- No doubt that your surgeon will discuss all these options with you to determine the best option that suits you.
Surgical Incisions and Dissection Planes
- Inframammary, periareolar, transareolar, transaxillary, and transumbilical incisions are the five surgical techniques used to place breast implants.
- Breast implants can be put subglandular, submuscular (under the pectoralis muscle), or in a dual plane with the superior section covered by muscle and the inferior part under the gland.
Breast Augmentation Risks
Breast augmentation, just like any other surgery, has some risks and complications, including:
- Scar issue, which distorts the shape of the breast implant.
- Infection at the site of the incision.
- Changes in the nipple and breast sensation due to nerve damage. The nipples may become more sensitive, less sensitive, or completely numb. It can be temporary or permanent.
- Implant site changes.
- Implant leakage or rupture.
- Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. The U.S Food and Drug Administration has identified a possible association between breast implants and an uncommon type of immune cell cancer called anaplastic large cell lymphoma. However, that doesn’t mean that the implants necessarily cause this condition. Therefore, further research is needed to confirm or deny this association.
- Breast implant illness. After the breast augmentation surgery, some patients reported systemic symptoms including fatigue, memory loss, skin rash, trouble concentrating and thinking clearly, and joint pain. This relationship between the implant and the symptoms is not totally understood. However, the removal of the implants may improve these symptoms. Research is still ongoing to determine the association between breast implants and these symptoms.
- Creases or folds in the implant.
- Rotation of the implant within the breast. This rotation results in an abnormal shape.
- Rippling of the implant. This happens when the implant is covered by a thin layer of tissue only, which sticks to the surface of the implant. It is very difficult to treat.
- Not being able to breastfeed or producing slightly less breast milk than you would without a breast implant.
Surgeons do not know what causes contracture, although many assume a sub-clinical or low-grade infection, which can produce inflammation and a capsule biofilm, which can cause contracture. Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes are the most often identified bacteria from breast implant capsular contracture investigations.
Capsular contracture is rated on a scale of 1 to 4, with severe cases necessitating surgical correction or possibly implant removal. It is critical that individuals undergoing this operation understand that many women who have breast implants may require further breast surgery at some time in their lives.
There have recently been indications that women who get breast implants are more likely to be diagnosed with anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). The precise link between implants and ALCL has yet to be discovered, although it may be more frequent with a specific sort of texturing on the implant.
Before your breast augmentation surgery, you must understand the whole process and discuss with your surgeon everything including the type of the implant, the type of anesthesia, and the preparation before the surgery.
You will also consult with your surgeon about the size, feel, and shape you want. You should also review the written information about the type of implant you choose carefully.
You need to keep in mind some facts about Breast Augmentation and Breast Implants. For example:
- Breast implants won’t prevent your breasts from sagging as you age. If you already have sagging breasts, your surgeon will recommend a breast lift along with breast implants.
- Breast implants won’t last a lifetime. Implant rupture is possible. Besides, the average lifespan of an implant is 10 years. And as your body changes and as you gain or lose weight, the way your breasts look will change as well. These situations can lead to other surgeries.
- Mammogram screening will be more complicated than usual. If you have breast implants, in addition to a mammogram, you will need additional screening tests and views.
- And as we mentioned before, breast implants can interfere with breastfeeding.
- Some insurance companies, or almost all of them, don’t cover breast augmentation surgeries unless it is medically necessary such as after mastectomy due to breast cancer. So, be prepared to deal with all the expenses including future surgeries and tests.
- If you decided to remove your implants, you might need additional surgeries. You might need a breast lift or another corrective surgery to help restore the old appearance of the breasts.
- You will need to screen for silicone breast implant rupture. The FDA recommends routine screening with breast MRI five to six years after placement of the silicone implant to check for implant rupture. After that, a breast MRI is recommended every two to three years. Ultrasound can be an alternative method to check for implant rupture. You can discuss with your surgeon the suitable method of screening for your case.
- You might need a baseline mammogram before your surgery.
- Your surgeon might ask you to take some medications before the surgery or to avoid some medications, for example, your doctor might ask you to stop aspirin or other medications that can increase bleeding.
- If you are a smoker, your doctor will ask you to stop smoking for about four to six weeks before and after the surgery.
Another important point you need to keep in mind when you are considering breast augmentation surgery is that you can still get breast cancer after having breast implants. This means that you need to be aware of how your breasts look and feel after the surgery so that if any abnormal lump or change appears on your breasts you can report it to your doctor.
In addition, you should still have your regular breast cancer screening after having breast implants. But the technician will do the mammogram in a different way to allow the breast tissue to appear.
How do you prepare for the surgery?
Formal consultation in our offices is required to adequately diagnose and address your upper eyelid concerns. You will be given a thorough package that contains written information regarding the surgery as well as detailed post-operative care recommendations.
During the consultation, preoperative photographic evidence will be gathered, as well as answers to any of your procedure-related queries. According to Medical Board of Australia rules, a cooling down period of at least 7 days will be provided. If you have any more questions, a second or future appointment may be scheduled.
Equipment
Breast augmentation surgery generally only necessitates the use of basic operating room equipment. Some surgeons prefer to use a lit retractor to see within the breast pocket made for the implant, while others prefer to use a headlamp. When using the umbilical or axillary methods, an endoscope or other specialist equipment may be required.
Some surgeons may propose inserting the implant through a customized implant sleeve. This may make implant placement simpler and is part of the no-touch method, which allows for as little contact of the implant as possible. This may reduce the possibility of implant damage and bacterial infection.
Breast Augmentation Recovery Essentials
Breast implants are not designed to last forever, although most firms provide a 10-year warranty in the event of a rupture. On physical examination, saline implant rupture is frequently more easily identified than silicone implant rupture. As a result, the FDA recommends that women with silicone gel implants have breast imaging with MRI three years after implantation and every other year afterwards to identify silent rupture.
Patients who have saline implants should follow their prescribed mammography routine for breast cancer screening. Furthermore, patients may develop capsular contracture over time and should consult with a plastic surgeon if they have any concerns or questions about this.
Contraindications of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is not contraindicated in the majority of individuals. However, they include active breast infection, active malignancy, pregnancy, a history of autoimmune illness, current radiation therapy, unstable medical conditions, or known silicone sensitivity. This procedure should not be performed on individuals who are psychologically unstable or who have unreasonable expectations.
Outcomes
Breast augmentation produces the best outcomes of any cosmetic surgery. The majority of patients are not only satisfied with the outcome, but they also gain self-esteem and confidence as a result. Complications following breast augmentation are uncommon and vary according on surgeon expertise. According to surveys, around 70-80 percent of patients are happy and believe the outcome was excellent.
Breast Augmentation Surgery Cost
Breast implant surgery ranges in price from £3,500 to £8,000. This generally does not include the cost of consultations or follow-up treatment.
Is Breast Augmentation safe?
Breast augmentation and reconstruction with both saline and silicone implants are deemed safe. Both types of implants are still being studied for their safety and efficacy.
Conclusion
There are many types of breast surgery. Depends on why the patient wants one. If the person has small breasts, we can enlarge them. If the breasts sag, we can lift. And, if the breasts are too large, we can reduce them. And for cancer patients who lost their breasts, we also do reconstruction.
Breasts can sag for a variety of reasons. Breastfeeding or change in weight due to sudden weight loss or gain. If breasts enlarge then subside, they tend to sag. Lift surgery addresses that type of issue.
Implants are now in their sixth generation as the first ones came to market in the 1960’s. If old implants have no issues, there is no reason to have them removed and changed. However, there are issues that require attention, including leaking, bleeding or infections. Also, some are known to be problematic, such as Allergan’s implants. If a patient has an Allergan, she is recommended to have them removed and replaced with a safer one.
As to the concerns for being able to breastfeed after augmentation, yes, it is no problem as the implant lies below the muscle layer while the breast milk is generated above the muscle layer.
Consultation