Breast augmentation

The Procedure

A breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing or restoring breast volume.

This can be done in two ways:

• With silicone implants: These are placed under or over the chest muscle.

• With your own fat (lipofilling): Fat is removed via liposuction from areas such as the abdomen or thighs and injected into the breasts.

Pros and cons of silicone implants:

• Pros: Immediate and predictable results, long-lasting effect.

• Cons: Implants are foreign objects and will need to be replaced over time.

Pros and cons of lipofilling (own fat):

• Pros: Natural feel, no foreign materials, body-contouring effect at the liposuction sites.

• Cons: Less predictable outcome, some fat is reabsorbed by the body, multiple treatments may be needed.

The choice between the two methods depends on your body type, personal preferences, and medical suitability.

 

Type of Anaesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. You will be completely asleep during the surgery and will not feel anything. An anaesthesiologist will monitor your vital signs throughout the operation.

 

Duration of the Procedure

A breast augmentation typically takes between 1 and 2 hours. The duration may be slightly longer when using your own fat, due to the extra liposuction procedure. The surgery is performed as day treatment. If all goes well, you may return home the same day.

 

Before the Surgery

Good preparation reduces the risk of complications:

• Stop smoking: Smoking impairs wound healing and increases the risk of infections. It can also negatively affect anaesthesia.

• Discontinue blood thinners: In consultation with your doctor, you will need to temporarily stop this medication.

• No creams or makeup: On the day of surgery, your skin must be clean and free of any products.

• Pre-operative consultation: During your consultation, you will discuss your desired cup size, surgical technique, and expected outcome.

 

Aftercare and Follow-Up Appointment

Proper aftercare is essential for recovery:

• Rest: Avoid heavy lifting, intense physical activity, and sports for the first 6 weeks.

• Bra: You will wear a special postoperative bra for support.

• Recovery time: Most women can resume their normal activities after 4 to 6 weeks.

• Follow-up: During one or more follow-up appointments, your recovery will be assessed, and you can ask any questions.

 

Scars

Scars depend on the chosen surgical technique:

• With implants, scars are usually located in the breast fold.

• With lipofilling, scars are small and scattered over the areas where fat was removed and injected.

Scars typically fade over time, but they remain visible. Sun protection and proper wound care help ensure optimal healing.

 

Complications

Breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries some risks:

• Bleeding: This can cause additional swelling and may require an additional procedure in some cases.

• Infection: Keep the wound clean to avoid infections. If you experience signs of infection, such as redness around the wound, pus, and/or fever, contact the clinic. Antibiotics may be required.

• Thrombosis: While you should take it easy after the procedure, it’s important to stay mobile. Move gently several times a day to help prevent blood clots.

• Wound separation and/or widened scar: The skin may not heal properly, leading to broader scars.

• Asymmetry: Minor differences between the two breasts may occur.

• Altered sensation in the skin and/or nipple (areola): Temporary or permanent changes in sensation may happen.

With lipofilling (own fat):

• Pain or swelling at liposuction sites

• Asymmetry in donor areas

• Uncertainty about how much fat will be retained over time

Discuss with your surgeon beforehand what is most suitable for you and what results you can realistically expect.

 

Reimbursement and Costs

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance in most cases.

 

Silicone Breast Implant Information Leaflet – NVPC

For reliable information on silicone breast implants, it is recommended to read the surgical information leaflet by the Dutch Society for Plastic Surgery (NVPC).

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