Painless Breast Augmentation with Natural Results
Breast augmentation: the procedure, the implants used in breast augmentation, the dual plane technique, cost, experiences, results of breast augmentation, and everything you need to know in the text that follows.
Breast augmentation is the aesthetic surgery that increases breast size using silicone implants, simultaneously achieving a slight breast lift and improving its shape. Although autologous fat methods promise breast augmentation without silicone, they still need to pass the test of time successfully.
The breast, as a symbol of femininity, sexuality, and motherhood, is a quintessential characteristic of the female body. For this reason, breast augmentation is a favorite aesthetic surgery among modern women, as it addresses their concerns and worries about their appearance while improving their daily lives.
Breast augmentation is applied in cases where the size is small, the upper pole is “empty” after childbirth or weight loss, and when the shape is not normal (tubular breasts).
Individualization and naturalness are the two factors that determine the successful aesthetic result of breast augmentation, as increasing size alone is not enough to make a breast beautiful. The ideal breast is one that matches the body type of each woman, and its beauty is largely based on aesthetic proportions. Thus, the correct choice of implants comes from the somatometric criteria (height, chest width, existing breast), the desires of the interested party, combined with the plastic surgeon’s experience.
Breast Augmentation with the Dual Plane Technique
There are various techniques for breast augmentation, but the dual plane technique proposed by John Tebbetts (which I had the fortune to learn from him during my stay in Dallas) is the optimal choice. The dual plane technique combines the following criteria in the same procedure:
The implant is placed partially behind the pectoralis major muscle and partially behind the mammary gland (in two planes simultaneously).
A specific portion of the pectoralis major muscle origin is divided to anatomically modify the implant-soft tissue relationship (this criterion differentiates this technique from the old partial submuscular placement).
The relationship between the mammary gland and muscle changes, consequently altering the dynamic relationship between the implant and the mammary gland.
There are three (3) types of the dual plane technique, depending on the type of breast. The difference lies in the third criterion, i.e., how much the mammary gland will be detached from the muscle.
In the 1st type (no detachment at all), it suits normal breasts:
- Without ptosis
- Close association between gland and muscle
- When the nipple-to-inframammary fold distance is 4.0-6.0 cm
In the 2nd type (detachment up to the lower border of the areola), it suits:
- Breasts with slight ptosis
- Loose association between gland and muscle (the breast is quite loose and mobile relative to the anterior surface of the muscle)
- When the nipple-to-inframammary fold distance is 5.5-6.5 cm
In the 3rd type (detachment up to the upper border of the areola), it suits:
- Breasts with greater ptosis or an empty upper pole (pseudoptosis)
- Breasts with significant laxity
- When the nipple-to-inframammary fold distance is 7.0-8.0 cm
- Breasts with constricted or deformed lower pole, such as tubular breasts
Advantages of Breast Augmentation with the Dual Plane Technique
The dual plane breast augmentation technique offers numerous benefits:
- Reduces the likelihood of capsular contracture
- Reduces the probability of implant visibility or palpability
- Reduces the likelihood of lateral displacement of the implant
- Provides better control for the natural projection of the upper pole of the breast
- Achieves a better overall breast shape without being affected by muscle contraction
- Improves the definition of the lower pole of the breast and the inframammary fold
- Maintains accuracy in mammography
- Reduces postoperative sensitivity and recovery time with the correct technique.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
The inframammary incision for implant placement is superior to other incisions (periareolar and transaxillary incisions) because it better exposes the breast tissue, offers inconspicuous scars (as it is located precisely where the breast folds), and does not affect breastfeeding.
Breast augmentation surgery takes about 45-60 minutes, and the patient is discharged two hours after the operation with only a waterproof dressing on the 3 cm incision in the inframammary fold. It is recommended to wear a sports bra without an underwire for a few weeks. Postoperative symptoms include temporary mild pain, swelling, bruising, and breast tenderness for a short period. Return to work occurs in a few days, while full activity, such as gym workouts, resumes in 4-5 weeks. The final scar appearance forms in 3-10 months.
Combination Techniques
Breast augmentation with fat, which more women are asking about, is not yet the ideal “monotherapy” or the ultimate choice for breast augmentation and still needs to pass the test of time successfully. However, combined with silicone implants, it can provide the ideal breast: fuller, well-shaped breasts with natural, long-lasting results.
Breast Augmentation: Cost
The cost of breast augmentation depends on many factors, such as the technique chosen, the clinic, the implants, etc., which will be discussed in the preoperative session, as it is a highly individualized surgery. However, a low cost should be a concern for the interested party, as a discount in implant quality can compromise safety and the longevity of the results.
Options Regarding Silicone Implants Used in Breast Augmentation
Implant Size:
The attractiveness of the improved breast will be based on aesthetic proportions, individualization, and naturalness. Determining the right implant for you depends on many different factors, which will be thoroughly discussed and evaluated during the preoperative session. During the first visit, various sizes are tried under the bra, and even during the surgery, there is the possibility of a final check using sterile sizers that mimic permanent silicone implants.
Implant Position:
Silicone implants can be placed either under the mammary gland or under the pectoralis major muscle. With the dual plane technique I apply, they are placed in two planes simultaneously (partially behind the pectoralis major muscle – in the upper pole – and partially behind the mammary gland – lower and outer), offering the woman a series of incomparable advantages.
Implant Shape:
The choice of shape – round or anatomical (teardrop) – is determined based on the desired upper pole curve, skin firmness, and other somatometric criteria.
Implant Type:
Latest-generation silicone implants with cohesive gel are the golden standard in breast augmentation, as they are not comparable to water implants (which are now abandoned) or polyurethane implants in terms of reliability or aesthetic result quality. Latest-generation silicone implants with cohesive gel, which maintains its shape over time, offer a more natural appearance and feel and a better aesthetic result.
Implant Quality:
The good quality of silicone implants used ensures their durability over time (lifetime) and the avoidance of complications (e.g., capsular contracture). Regardless of the factors determining the above choices (size, position, shape, type of implants), the only non-negotiable element is the safety of the women who trust me with their surgery through the excellent quality of the implants I choose, approved by international organizations and guaranteed for material integrity.
Breast Augmentation: The Result
The result of breast augmentation is almost permanent, provided – as with other surgeries like breast lift – that the weight remains stable.
High Levels of Postoperative Satisfaction
The dual plane breast augmentation technique allows the breast to perform all its biological functions, offering women both functionality and attractiveness. Women who have undergone breast augmentation with this technique report: “My biggest concern about breast augmentation…since I did it at a young age…was that I might not be able to breastfeed later. Today, 8 years later, I have a daughter and enjoy all the benefits of motherhood thanks to the dual plane technique,” “What impressed me was the naturalness of the result, both in appearance and touch…and most importantly, the aesthetic result has remained over time,” “The placement of silicone implants with the dual plane technique successfully corrected the problem of tubular breasts that troubled me,” “The fuller and harmonious breasts with my body enhanced my femininity, helped me feel better about myself, and brought only positive changes to my life.”
Breast Augmentation FAQs
When can I consider breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation corrects size (not only of small breasts but also cases of asymmetry), ptosis, and shape. If any or all of these coexist, you are an ideal candidate to experience the postoperative satisfaction breast augmentation offers.
How can I be sure and satisfied with the correct choice of implant size?
We dedicate a lot of time to the selection process, as it is the most important factor for your increased postoperative satisfaction. During the first visit, we try various sizes under the bra because your opinion matters to us. If you like something very large, we need to see if the implant width fits the existing breast width for a natural result. The choice of implant type, whether round or anatomical (teardrop) with medium or large projection, depends on how we want the upper pole curve to be and how loose or firm the skin is. Additionally, for anatomical implants, we consider other somatometric criteria; for example, a short torso with a large circumference requires an implant with greater width and less height, while a tall and slender body needs the opposite.
Once we decide on the future breast size (e.g., increasing from cup B to cup D) that you desire and jointly evaluate that it suits you, we inform you – to make you feel confident – that during the surgery, we have the possibility of a final check using sterile sizers that mimic permanent implants.
Although the interested party’s contribution to the decision-making for her new breast is important, some women experience mixed emotions postoperatively because they cannot get used to their new appearance. If you experience something similar, do not rush and “fall into the trap” of thinking that the aesthetic result is not as desired. It is natural to feel surprised since there has been a change in your body – which you notice even when wearing clothes. Give yourself some time to manage the image renewal, and once the correct selection process has been followed by the plastic surgeon and you have secured a natural result, you will quickly get used to and, above all, enjoy your new breasts.
How many shapes and types of implants are there?
There are two types of implants, round and anatomical (teardrop). Round implants are distinguished by low, medium, and high projection degrees, while anatomical ones, in addition to the above projections, differ in height, which can be the same as the width, less than the width, or greater than the width. In choosing the implant, besides the interested party’s desire, the body type and the existing breast are also considered: all these will be thoroughly discussed during the first visit. Water and silicone gel implants are no longer used.
Can breast augmentation improve my breasts after childbirth?
This depends on the degree of breast laxity, which will be assessed during the preoperative session. When the nipple is at the level of the inframammary fold (where the lower part of the breast connects to the chest wall), breast augmentation alone offers a satisfactory aesthetic result. However, when the nipple’s height is lower than the inframammary fold level, a breast lift is also necessary.
What should I do before my surgery?
To help detect and record any changes in breast tissue, the plastic surgeon may recommend a mammogram as a reference before surgery or, for younger women, an ultrasound. It is also good to avoid being in the early days of your cycle, reduce smoking a few weeks before breast augmentation to contribute to faster healing, and avoid taking aspirin, some anti-inflammatory medications, and dietary supplements.
Is there a chance that breast implants will need replacement?
Today’s generation of implants (from certified companies) comes with a lifetime integrity warranty.
What role can a future pregnancy play in the result of breast augmentation?
This depends on the previous condition of the breast. For example, if the skin is inelastic and the breast is small, a future pregnancy may help achieve an even more beautiful aesthetic result. However, if there is previous laxity and sufficient size, a small ptosis may occur, and in rare cases, a breast lift may be necessary.
Can breast augmentation cause future oncological problems?
Large retrospective studies from major international universities have categorically answered that the use of silicone implants is not a risk factor for oncological or any other medical problems. Additionally, it has been found that women who have undergone breast augmentation, because they are more diligent and meticulous in periodic breast examinations, detect any findings – which would appear in the specific breast regardless of the surgery – more quickly.
Will I have problems with breastfeeding?
Since the implant insertion does not affect the “architecture” of the mammary gland, theoretically, a woman has the same chances of breastfeeding as she would have if she had not undergone breast augmentation. Thanks to modern plastic surgery methods, women today can enjoy both the aesthetic benefits of breast augmentation and the benefits of breastfeeding: one does not negate the other.
When can I have sexual intercourse after breast augmentation?
The answer to this question is somewhat subjective, considering the interested party’s mood and feelings. If she feels well, it can be a few days after breast augmentation, but with caution initially to avoid sudden or forceful movements.
Can future weight loss affect the result of breast augmentation?
If we talk about minor weight loss, there will be no problem, and your breasts might even look more natural. However, if the weight loss is significant, it is better to wait until you stabilize at your new weight before undergoing the surgery.
I want to undergo the surgery but worry that it will cause diagnostic problems in detecting future findings. Is there such a risk?
Today, with digital mammography, diagnostic capabilities have multiplied, and if there is any diagnostic issue, accompanying tests such as MRI or ultrasound provide an absolute solution to the problem.
How long after childbirth can I proceed with breast augmentation?
As with other plastic surgeries like abdominoplasty, it is recommended for women to rest after pregnancy and childbirth, wait for their body changes to stabilize, and allow a sufficient period to pass after stopping breastfeeding before visiting the plastic surgeon.
Is the use of a special bra necessary after breast augmentation?
Is the use of a special bra necessary after breast augmentation?