Short answer
Breast augmentation is surgery that increases breast volume, usually with silicone implants placed behind the breast tissue or the chest muscle. The operation typically takes 1 to 2 hours under general anaesthesia, with one night in hospital. Most patients stay in Istanbul for about 6 to 7 days and return to desk work within 1 to 2 weeks.
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation is an operation to make the breasts fuller and better balanced. Most often a silicone implant is placed through a small incision, either in front of or behind the chest muscle.
Some patients prefer a more modest change using their own fat, taken by liposuction from another area. Fat transfer gives a smaller, softer increase and part of the fat is usually reabsorbed, so it suits those wanting about one cup size or less.
Who is it for?
It suits healthy adults who feel their breasts are small, uneven or have lost volume after pregnancy or weight loss. You should be at a stable weight and have realistic expectations.
- Naturally small or asymmetric breasts
- Volume loss after breastfeeding or weight change
- Wish for better proportion between chest and hips
- Non-smokers, or willing to stop for several weeks
How the procedure is done
Your surgeon examines you in person, measures your chest and discusses size, shape and incision site. The incision is usually placed in the fold under the breast, where the scar is well hidden.
Under general anaesthesia a pocket is created and the implant is positioned, then the skin is closed in layers. You wear a special support bra from the first day. Your hotel, VIP transfers and a medical interpreter are arranged before you land in Istanbul, and a personal coordinator stays with you throughout.
Recovery and results
Most patients feel tightness and soreness for the first few days, which is controlled with medication. Light walking starts on the day after surgery.
You can usually return to desk work in 1 to 2 weeks and to the gym after about 6 weeks. Implants settle into a softer, more natural position over 3 to 6 months. Implants are not lifetime devices and may need replacing in the future.
Implants or fat transfer: choosing your approach
The right approach depends on how much change you want and how much natural tissue you have. Implants give a predictable, larger increase in volume and a clear shape. Fat transfer gives a softer, smaller change and also slims the area where fat is taken.
Your surgeon also discusses implant shape, profile and placement. Round implants add fullness to the upper breast, while anatomical implants follow a sloping shape. Placement behind the muscle can give better cover in slim women, while placement in front of the muscle may suit those with more tissue.
Your package includes pre-operative tests, one night in hospital, medication, a special bra, six hotel nights with breakfast, VIP transfers, a final check-up and one year of WhatsApp follow-up.
- Implants: larger, more predictable change
- Fat transfer: subtle change of about one cup or less
- Combined with a lift when there is sagging
Risks and safety
As with any surgery, there are risks. These include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, visible scarring, implant rippling and capsular contracture, where scar tissue tightens around the implant.
A doctor assesses your suitability in person, reviews your tests and explains the risks before you decide. Some women may need a breast lift as well as an implant for the best shape, and your surgeon will tell you honestly if this applies.
Recovery timeline
- Day 1Hospital night, support bra fitted, short walks
- Week 1Check-up and dressing change, flight home after clearance
- Week 2Return to desk work for most patients
- Week 6Gym and upper body exercise usually allowed
- Month 3-6Implants soften and settle into final position
Frequently asked questions
Should the implant go above or below the muscle?
It depends on your tissue thickness and goals. Placement below the muscle often gives more natural cover in slim patients, while placement above the muscle can suit those with more breast tissue.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Many women can breastfeed after augmentation. An incision in the breast fold avoids cutting through the milk ducts, but this cannot be guaranteed for every patient.
How do I choose the right size?
Your surgeon measures your chest width and skin stretch and shows you sizing options during the consultation. The aim is a size that fits your frame rather than the largest possible implant.
Will I need to replace my implants?
Implants are not designed to last for life, and some patients need replacement or revision at some point. Regular check-ups help spot any change early.
When can I fly home?
Most patients fly home about 6 to 7 days after surgery, once the surgeon has checked the wounds at the final appointment.
