{"id":413,"date":"2022-02-28T13:50:11","date_gmt":"2022-02-28T13:50:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/how-is-the-breast-augmentation-surgery-process\/"},"modified":"2026-10-27T16:32:36","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T13:32:36","slug":"how-is-the-breast-augmentation-surgery-process","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/blog\/how-is-the-breast-augmentation-surgery-process\/","title":{"rendered":"How Is the Breast Augmentation Surgery Process?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Breast augmentation surgery changes breast volume and contour, most often by placing an implant through a planned incision. The process covers more than the operation itself, since implant selection, incision placement and the way the result settles over time are considered together within <a href=\"\/en\/breast-aesthetics\/\">breast aesthetic options<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>What Does Breast Augmentation Surgery Mean?<\/h2>\n<p>Breast augmentation surgery is an operation that increases or restores breast volume and may also address differences in breast size or shape. The volume is added with an implant positioned in a surgically created space, and the planning is built around the existing breast rather than a fixed template. A <a href=\"\/en\/breast-aesthetics\/breast-augmentation\/\">breast augmentation procedure<\/a> is therefore planned individually rather than applied in one standard form.<\/p>\n<p>The reasons people consider it vary. Some have naturally small breasts and want more fullness. Others notice a loss of volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight change. Visible asymmetry between the two sides is another common reason for assessment. What can realistically be achieved depends on chest proportions, tissue quality and personal goals, so outcomes differ from person to person.<\/p>\n<h2>How Does the Surgery Process Begin?<\/h2>\n<p>The breast augmentation surgery process begins with a clinical examination and planning appointment held before any surgical date is set. During this assessment, existing breast volume, the width of the chest base, skin elasticity, nipple position, any asymmetry and the shape of the chest wall are measured and discussed together with what the person hopes to change.<\/p>\n<p>These findings guide concrete decisions: the surgeon&#8217;s examination determines implant size and shape, the plane in which the implant will sit and which incision is suitable. An implant is not simply a matter of choosing a larger cup size, because body proportions and the thickness of the soft tissue covering the implant influence how the final contour looks and feels.<\/p>\n<p>Medical history also shapes planning. Previous breast operations, current medication, smoking or other nicotine use, and earlier breast imaging may all affect how the operation is organised or whether further checks are requested first. Preparation instructions and the aftercare plan are clarified individually by the treating doctor rather than taken from general guidance. Informed consent is part of this stage, where expected benefits, limitations and possible complications are discussed in a balanced way so that the decision is made with realistic expectations.<\/p>\n<h2>What Happens During Breast Augmentation Surgery?<\/h2>\n<p>Breast augmentation surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia and proceeds by opening the planned incision, preparing a pocket for the implant and positioning the device within that pocket. The incision is then closed and dressings or a supportive garment are applied according to the surgical plan.<\/p>\n<p>Three incision approaches are commonly described. The inframammary approach uses the fold beneath the breast and can allow the surgeon to assess implant position directly while keeping the incision within a natural crease. The periareolar approach follows the border of the areola; because it lies closer to glandular tissue and sensory nerves, it is discussed carefully during planning. The transaxillary approach places the incision in the armpit, so there is no scar on the breast itself, although achieving symmetrical implant placement can be more demanding with this route in some cases. Each option carries a different balance between visible scarring, control of implant positioning and access to the tissues.<\/p>\n<p>The implant may be planned beneath the breast tissue, beneath the muscle, at a fascial level, or partly under the muscle and partly under the breast tissue in what is called a dual plane position. The choice depends on tissue thickness, skin quality and the contour being aimed for. Effects on breastfeeding or nipple sensation cannot be stated with certainty for any single incision or plane; the likelihood varies with anatomy and the surgical plan.<\/p>\n<h2>Operating Time and Hospital Stay<\/h2>\n<p>The length of breast augmentation surgery is not a single fixed figure; it changes with the approach that has been planned. The incision route, the plane chosen for the implant, the degree of asymmetry present at the start and whether a breast lift is performed in the same session all influence how long the operation takes.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large sy-writer-gorsel\"><img src=\"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/breast-augmentation-surgery-time.webp\" alt=\"Woman sits alone in a calm waiting room, reflecting on breast augmentation options as a staff member is blurred behind her.\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-2798\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/breast-augmentation-surgery-time.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/breast-augmentation-surgery-time-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/breast-augmentation-surgery-time-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Time in hospital is a separate matter from operating time. Patients are usually kept under observation overnight after breast augmentation. Anaesthesia preparation beforehand, the period of monitoring afterwards and the discharge plan all sit outside the surgical time itself and are explained as part of the overall schedule.<\/p>\n<h2>Implant Types and Selection<\/h2>\n<p>Implant choice takes account of chest width, the available soft tissue cover, skin characteristics and the contour being aimed for, not volume alone. Measurements such as <a href=\"\/en\/blog\/breast-implant-sizes-how-width-profile-and-volume-shape-the-result\/\">implant width and profile<\/a> are matched to the chest base so that the device sits in proportion rather than exceeding the tissue available to cover it.<\/p>\n<p>Implants differ by filling, shape and surface. Silicone gel implants consist of an outer shell filled with cohesive gel. Saline implants have an elastomer silicone shell filled with sterile salt solution, and the volume used affects firmness and shape; if saline leaks from the shell, the solution is absorbed and eliminated by the body. Round implants give fullness across the upper pole, while anatomical or teardrop implants are narrower above and wider below, producing more emphasis in the lower pole. Neither shape produces a better result for everyone, and selection follows the individual plan.<\/p>\n<p>Surfaces may be smooth or textured. Capsular contracture, a complication in which the capsule of tissue forming around an implant tightens, is one of the issues considered when surface type is discussed, alongside other surgical and device-related factors. Implants have a limited lifespan and may need to be reviewed or replaced in time. Follow-up, imaging or the possibility of further surgery in the future depends on individual circumstances and is reviewed over time.<\/p>\n<h2>Where Are Breast Augmentation Scars Located?<\/h2>\n<p>The location of breast augmentation scars depends on the incision approach used during surgery. A scar may lie in the fold beneath the breast, along the border of the areola, or within the armpit. Because an incision is required, some degree of scarring is expected in every case.<\/p>\n<p>A scar in the inframammary fold is usually positioned so that it sits within the natural crease. A scar at the areolar border can be less noticeable where pigmented and non-pigmented skin meet. With the armpit approach there is no incision on the breast itself. Scars change in appearance over months, although how they settle is influenced by skin type, individual healing tendency, incision site and post-operative care, and complete invisibility cannot be promised. Incision choice is therefore made together with implant position and anatomical requirements rather than on scar preference alone.<\/p>\n<h2>Breast Augmentation Surgery Recovery<\/h2>\n<p>During breast augmentation surgery recovery, pain, tightness and sensitivity in the treated area are common in the first week. Medication prescribed by the doctor should be taken regularly, and the recommended sports bra is used for support during the early weeks. Difficulty raising the arms may be noticed soon after surgery, and pushing, pulling or lifting heavy objects is generally advised against during this period.<\/p>\n<p>Most patients can return to work within 3-5 days, depending on the nature of their job. Strenuous physical activity, heavy housework and sport are avoided for the first 4-6 weeks. Swimming in the sea or a pool and spending time in very hot environments such as saunas or a Turkish bath are resumed only once wound healing allows and the surgical team has confirmed the timing.<\/p>\n<p>Swelling affects appearance early on. The breasts may look larger than planned or uneven between the two sides while oedema is still present, and this settles gradually rather than within days. Fever, increasing pain, rapidly developing swelling, discharge from the wound or a marked change in skin colour are reasons to contact the surgical team for assessment rather than to wait.<\/p>\n<h2>How Does the Result Settle Over Time?<\/h2>\n<p>The appearance after breast augmentation continues to change as early swelling subsides and the tissues settle around the implant. Oedema may take roughly 6-12 months to resolve fully and for the breasts to reach the planned size and position, which is why early impressions do not represent the final shape.<\/p>\n<p>Healing does not always progress at the same pace on both sides, so temporary differences between the two breasts are not unusual during this period. Images of other people reflect a different chest structure, skin quality and implant plan, and are therefore of limited value in predicting an individual outcome. Where sagging is more pronounced, an implant can add volume but may not correct excess skin on its own, which is where <a href=\"\/en\/blog\/can-a-breast-lift-be-combined\/\">implant and lift planning<\/a> becomes part of the discussion.<\/p>\n<h2>Can Breast Augmentation Be Combined With a Breast Lift?<\/h2>\n<p>Breast augmentation can be combined with a breast lift within the same plan in selected cases, although the decision depends on the degree of sagging and on tissue characteristics. An implant contributes volume and upper pole fullness, while a breast lift, known medically as mastopexy, focuses on reshaping the breast tissue and repositioning the nipple.<\/p>\n<p>Teardrop implants may be considered in some people with mild sagging who do not require a lift, though this applies to particular situations rather than as a general rule. Sagging, skin excess, nipple position, asymmetry and the volume being aimed for are assessed together. A combined approach is a more extensive surgical plan, so expectations around scars and recovery form part of the same conversation. Suitability for breast augmentation, with or without a lift, is determined by examination carried out by <a href=\"\/en\/editorial-and-medical-review\/prof-dr-sukru-yazar\/\">Prof. Dr. \u015e\u00fckr\u00fc Yazar<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<details class=\"sy-faq-item\">\n<summary><span>What is breast augmentation surgery?<\/span><span class=\"sy-faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/summary>\n<p>It is an operation that changes breast volume and contour, usually by placing implants through a planned incision. The implant type, position and incision are selected around the individual anatomy and surgical plan.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<details class=\"sy-faq-item\">\n<summary><span>How long does breast augmentation surgery take?<\/span><span class=\"sy-faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/summary>\n<p>Operating time varies with the incision, implant position, degree of asymmetry and whether another breast procedure is planned in the same session. Anaesthesia preparation and post-operative observation are separate parts of the day.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<details class=\"sy-faq-item\">\n<summary><span>Does breast augmentation surgery leave scars?<\/span><span class=\"sy-faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/summary>\n<p>An incision is required, so a scar is expected. Its location may be in the breast crease, around the areola or in the armpit, depending on the surgical approach.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<details class=\"sy-faq-item\">\n<summary><span>How long is breast augmentation surgery recovery?<\/span><span class=\"sy-faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/summary>\n<p>Recovery varies, although many patients return to work in 3-5 days and are advised to avoid strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks. Swelling and breast position continue to change beyond the first days.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<details class=\"sy-faq-item\">\n<summary><span>Can the surgery affect breastfeeding or nipple sensation?<\/span><span class=\"sy-faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/summary>\n<p>It can affect breastfeeding or nipple sensation in some people, particularly when surgery is close to glandular tissue or sensory nerves. The likelihood depends on anatomy, incision choice and the surgical plan.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<details class=\"sy-faq-item\">\n<summary><span>Can uneven breasts be corrected with implants?<\/span><span class=\"sy-faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/summary>\n<p>Implants may improve visible differences in breast volume or shape, but natural asymmetry can remain. Implant size, placement and any need for reshaping are considered during surgical planning.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kaynaklar\">References<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"sy-kaynaklar\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.plasticsurgery.org\/cosmetic-procedures\/breast-augmentation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Breast Augmentation \u2014 American Society of Plastic Surgeons<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/cosmetic-procedures\/breast-enlargement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Breast enlargement cosmetic surgery \u2014 NHS<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Breast augmentation surgery changes breast volume and contour, most often by placing an implant through a planned incision. The process covers more than the operation itself, since implant selection, incision placement and the way the result settles over time are considered together within breast aesthetic options. What Does Breast Augmentation Surgery Mean? Breast augmentation surgery [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":2799,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-413","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-breast-aesthetics"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/413","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=413"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/413\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2800,"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/413\/revisions\/2800"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2799"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=413"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=413"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sukruyazar.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=413"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}