Breast implants in Turkey | Composition, techniques & prices

What are breast implants used for?

Breast implants are high-quality medical devices designed to restore or enhance breast volume and shape. They are used in two main contexts: aesthetic breast augmentation and reconstructive surgery.

Aesthetic augmentation

Most patients choose breast implants to enhance the size, shape, or symmetry of their breasts, for underdeveloped, asymmetrical, or tubular breasts, or to restore volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight change. In this context, implant type, size, and placement are chosen together with the surgeon based on the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Reconstructive surgery

Implants are also used in a reconstructive context, following:

• A mastectomy due to breast cancer. After breast removal (mastectomy) performed to treat breast cancer, implant-based reconstruction helps restore volume and contour close to the patient's original anatomy. This reconstruction can be performed immediately, during the same procedure as the mastectomy, or delayed by several months, once complementary treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy) are completed.
• An injury or trauma to the breast. An accident, a severe burn, or any other trauma resulting in a loss of breast tissue may also justify the placement of an implant to reconstruct the damaged breast and restore symmetry with the healthy breast.

In these cases, implant-based breast reconstruction is primarily intended to support the patient through a process of physical reconstruction after a medical ordeal, helping her regain a natural silhouette and a better quality of life. The choice of implant type (round or anatomical),size, and surgical technique is made in consultation with the surgeon, based on the patient's body shape, the extent of the mastectomy or injury, and her personal expectations.

Choosing a breast implant material

Breast implants feature a silicone shell, either smooth or textured, containing different materials. The main options are:

• Saline solution: A recognized safe choice. If leakage occurs, the body absorbs it naturally.
• Silicone gel: The most frequently selected because it feels natural and lasts longer. It adapts well to the body and maintains aesthetic results over time.
• Hydrogel (polyacrylamide): A less common but innovative option. Lighter and more flexible, it aims to replicate natural breast tissue consistency more closely.

Some implants use polyurethane shells, which may lower the chances of capsular contracture and other complications.

Our partner clinics use internationally recognized breast implant brands such as Mentor breast implants, known for their safety, reliability, and long-standing clinical performance in breast augmentation and reconstruction procedures.

Breast implant placement techniques

Considering breast augmentation? Two separate decisions shape the outcome: where the incision is made, and where the implant is positioned relative to the muscle. Turkish plastic surgeons select the approach that works best for your body and the type of implant chosen.

Incision site

Periareolar insertion

The implant goes in through an incision around the areola. The scar fades into the natural color boundary between breast and nipple, making it nearly undetectable. This works well with both silicone and saline implants when the right size is selected.

Submammary insertion

An incision is made below the breast fold, which suits larger implants better because positioning is easier. The scar sits hidden underneath, though visibility varies based on individual anatomy.

Axillary insertion

The incision goes through the armpit, leaving no scar on the breast itself. Mainly used for saline implants with a special cannula, this technique is less ideal for very thin women due to potential implant visibility.

Implant position

Independently of the incision site, the surgeon also chooses where the implant sits relative to the pectoral muscle:

Submuscular placement

Positioning implants beneath the pectoral muscle creates a more natural appearance, especially for subtle results. This requires adequate muscle thickness. Without sufficient space, a subglandular placement becomes the better option.

Subglandular placement

The implant sits above the muscle and directly under the breast tissue. This suits patients with enough natural tissue coverage and can offer more projection, though it may be less ideal for very thin patients.

Want to explore breast augmentation options in Turkey? Get in touch with specialists today for a consultation tailored to you.

Preparing for surgery

Avoid aspirin and blood thinners for about two weeks before surgery, as they increase bleeding risk during the procedure.

If you take oral contraceptives and have risk factors such as obesity or circulation issues, your surgeon may recommend stopping them beforehand. This lowers the chance of complications during anesthesia and surgery.

While not an absolute requirement, quitting smoking at least 30 days before your procedure significantly improves healing. Smoking slows recovery and raises the likelihood of post-operative problems. Following these guidelines helps you achieve faster healing and better results.

Adverse effects of breast implants

Breast implant surgery carries certain risks, both during and after the procedure. Your surgeon should discuss these openly with you before you decide to proceed.

Immediate post-surgery effects

Common side effects in the days following surgery include:

• Pain: Typical in early recovery.
• Swelling: Usually temporary.
• Bleeding: May happen during or immediately after surgery.
• Infection: Requires medical attention, from mild to serious cases.
• Altered sensation: Sometimes temporary changes in the breast or nipple area.

Longer-term concerns

Over time, some issues can develop:

• Implant shifting: Asymmetry or movement sometimes occurs.
• Implant rupture: The shell can tear or break.
• Capsular contracture: Scar tissue hardens around the implant, potentially causing pain and shape changes.
• Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): Rare immune system cancer linked to implants, serious but uncommon, requiring prompt medical care.
• Aesthetic concerns: Dissatisfaction with implant size, shape, or appearance.

Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice persistent pain, visible changes, or unusual symptoms. Regular check-ups help catch any problems early.

Have an in-depth conversation with your surgeon before scheduling surgery. Ask about risks, possible side effects, and what steps to take if complications arise. Making an informed choice means understanding both benefits and drawbacks.

Lifespan of breast implants

Modern breast implants are designed to last 10 to 20 years on average, though individual results vary. Research shows some implants last well beyond 20 years, while others may require earlier replacement due to rupture or other complications.

Unlike medications, breast implants don't have an expiration date. The FDA classifies them as non-lifetime devices, meaning eventual replacement or removal may be needed, but no fixed replacement schedule is mandated.

A rupture may require surgery to remove or replace the implant.

On average, breast implants function for 10 to 20 years, though individual results vary.