Breast implants in Turkey | Composition, techniques & prices

What are breast implants used for?

Breast implants are medical devices designed to restore or enhance breast volume. They serve different purposes depending on each patient's situation:

• Breast reconstruction after mastectomy or injury.
• Addressing congenital breast asymmetries, such as Poland's Syndrome.
• Cosmetic breast augmentation to modify breast shape and size.

For reconstructive or aesthetic goals, implants offer a stable solution tailored to what each patient is seeking.

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.

Breast implant placement techniques

Considering breast augmentation? The insertion method depends on your body and the type of implant chosen. Turkish plastic surgeons select the approach that works best for you.

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.

Sub-muscular 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.

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

The FDA considers a minimum lifespan of ten years as a standard. Research shows some implants last well beyond 20 years, while others fail sooner. Many women successfully keep their implants for two decades or more.

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.

Unlike medications, breast implants don't have an expiration date. The FDA doesn't classify them as lifetime devices.