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Augmentation or Breast Enlargement

A breast enlargement, also referred to as a breast augmentation or breast enhancement, all mean the insertion of an implant to increase the volume of the actual breast. There are three methods of inserting an implant, either through an incision around the nipple, through the armpit or most commonly through the inframammary fold (natural breast fold). To minimize the risk of capsule formation, and when possible the implants are placed behind the pectoral muscle.

What kind of implants exist?

Implants can differ in content, shape and outer covering, but whatever the size or shape they all exists in different sizes.

  • The outer wall is always made of silicone (even if the contents do not contain silicone): silicone is a foreign material that is well tolerated and widely used in many other medical devices (pacemakers, artificial joints ...). Scientific studies show that there is no connection between silicone and cancer, immunity diseases or fatigue syndromes.

  • The contents may consist of silicone (cohesive silicone gel) or a saltwater solution. The saltwater solution implants tend to have a shorter life expectancy and have been known to leak in some cases. Although more fragile than the silicone implants they do have their advantages.

  • The two different shapes that exist are round and anatomical (pear-drop shape). Both the round and the anatomical implants exist in different profiles: high, medium and low. The anatomical implants tend to give a more natural effect.

  • The surface of the implant may be smooth or rough. A rough surface seems to create less “capsular contracture” and is therefore our preferred choice.

  • During the consultation, you will be able to discuss the best type of implant for you and weigh up the pros and cons. Together with the expert, you will decide on the most suitable implant for you.

How long does the procedure take?

A breast enlargement takes approximately 1 hour.

What type of anaesthetic is used?

A breast enlargement is carried out under general anaesthetic.

Where does the procedure take place?

Surgery is carried out in the day hospital.

What are the side effects of the surgery?

Following a breast enlargement you may suffer from:

  • Chest and muscle pain, difficulty in raising the arms (for several days)

  • Swelling of the breasts and temporary loss of nipple sensation (can last up to 9-12 months)

  • Breasts can feel very sensitive to the touch and sometimes numb (for several weeks)

What are the risks of the procedure?

  • Asymmetry

  • Infection

  • Bleeding 

  • Capsular contraction

  • Implant displacement

  • Implant rupture or leakage

How long do the implants last?

The lifespan of the implants will depend on the type and the occurrence, if any, of capsular contracture. Most women keep their implants for 20 years, without any problem. SEBBIN, the manufacturer of our implants offer a lifetime guarantee.

What do I need to do after the procedure?

  • Immediately after the procedure, an adhesive dressing is applied to the wounds and a support bra is fitted.

  • You may shower two days following surgery (no baths for 6 weeks), although this may vary depending on the technique and the surgeon. Directly after the shower, the wounds should be dried, disinfected and dressed with a dry, sterile dressing.

  • During the first six weeks, we recommend a special support bra. This bra should be worn for six weeks night and day, unless prescribed otherwise

  • The stitches, if not absorbable, should be removed 7-10 days following the surgery. As soon as the stitches are removed, you can massage the scars with the prescribed scar cream.

Medication

If the breast implants are placed under the chest muscle, you may experience some quite strong muscle pain especially when stretching. Therefore, try to avoid any muscular effort and rest when possible. The following medication will help during the first post-operative week:

  • Paracetamol: 1g (3 times a day)

  • Ibuprofen: 400 mg (3 times a day with food)

  • In case of extreme pain (after consultation with your surgeon): A painkiller containing codeine, can be prescribed

  • Avoid aspirin and any other medication containing blood thinning properties, during the first post-operative week.

  • Applying ice packs for the first week, for 10 to15 minutes, four times a day, can help the swelling and alleviate some of the pain. Never put the ice directly on the skin: use a towel.

Sports

As the chest muscle may feel painful and sore for the first few weeks, we recommend:

  • Rest during the first two post-operative weeks.

  • 2 weeks following surgery, you can gradually take up light exercise again.

  • 6 weeks following surgery, you can exercise again as normal.

Massage

Two weeks following surgery, you may start to massage both breasts, this will help avoid any interior scarring and help the skin scars to develop smoothly and eventually fade. It is best to use a moisturizing cream.