Breast Augmentation Surgery
Natural Proportion, Symmetry and Personalized Planning in Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is one of the aesthetic surgical procedures considered for people who have developmentally small breast structure, experience volume loss after pregnancy or weight change, or want to reduce the volume difference between the two breasts. The operation does not only focus on increasing breast size; it aims to create a balanced form with the chest wall, breast base, existing tissue, skin structure and overall body proportions.
In evaluations performed by Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu, implant volume is not considered alone. Shoulder width, body structure, breast tissue thickness, nipple position, differences between the two breasts, lifestyle and expectations are evaluated together to create a personalized surgical plan.
What Is Breast Augmentation Aesthetics?
Breast augmentation aesthetics, or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to increase breast volume, correct loss of fullness in the upper part of the breast, balance developmental smallness, or reduce natural asymmetry. Augmentation is most commonly performed with breast implants. In suitable people, when a limited volume increase is targeted, fat injection using the person’s own fat tissue may also be considered.
The aim of this operation is not to create the same size or the same breast shape in everyone. Breast base width, the forward and lateral structure of the chest wall, skin elasticity, thickness of existing breast tissue and the person’s desired appearance are considered together. A natural appearance does not only mean choosing a small implant. The correct width, projection, placement level and soft tissue coverage must be compatible with the person’s anatomy.
Volume Increase
The aim is to make breast volume more balanced with the body structure and to regulate upper pole fullness to a personalized degree.
Shape and Symmetry
Natural differences between the two breasts are evaluated, and the implant and surgical technique are planned for the most balanced possible form.
Breast augmentation is not only about the question “how many cc?”
Although implant volume is important, the implant’s base width, profile, shape, anatomical placement plane and how much the existing breast tissue covers the implant are also decisive for the result.
In Which Situations Can Breast Augmentation Surgery Be Considered?
Breast augmentation surgery may be considered in the following situations according to the person’s physical characteristics and expectations:
- Developmentally small or insufficient breast volume
- Decrease in breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Noticeable loss of fullness in the upper part of the breast
- Congenital or acquired volume difference between the two breasts
- Desire for a breast volume more balanced with the chest wall and overall body proportions
- Need for volume and form correction in developmental shape differences such as tubular breast
- Need for revision related to the size, position or shape of a previously placed implant
Age alone does not determine the decision for surgery. Completion of breast development, general health status, realistic expectations and the decision for surgery being based on the person’s own wish are important. For more detailed information on this topic, the article titled the best age for breast aesthetics can be reviewed.
Suitability is determined by examination
Active infection, uncontrolled health problems, pregnancy or breastfeeding period, heavy smoking, or unrealistic expectations may affect the surgical plan. Each person’s health status should be evaluated separately.
Personalized Evaluation Before Breast Augmentation
A successful breast augmentation plan cannot be created only by evaluating an image the patient likes or the bra size they want. During the examination, existing breast volume, base width, nipple level, inframammary fold, skin quality, soft tissue thickness and chest wall structure are examined.
If there is a difference in volume, base or nipple level between the two breasts, the source of this difference is determined. If necessary, implants with different volumes or profiles may be evaluated on each side. However, since there is no complete mathematical equality in the human body, the goal is not perfect sameness, but to create a more balanced appearance that reduces existing differences within safe limits.
Anatomical Measurement
The breast base, chest wall width, nipple position and distance between the two breasts are measured.
Tissue Analysis
The thickness of existing breast tissue, skin elasticity and adequacy of soft tissue to cover the implant are evaluated.
Expectation Discussion
The person’s expectations for a natural, noticeable, fuller or more limited change are compared with what can be achieved anatomically.
Health Evaluation
Medications used, previous surgeries, smoking, pregnancy plans and personal or family history of breast disease are discussed.
How Is a Breast Implant Selected?
Breast implant selection is made by evaluating not only implant volume, but also width, height, profile, shape, filling and surface characteristics together. Two implants with the same volume may have different base widths and different forward projections. Therefore, the same implant used in another person should not be expected to produce the same result.
Round Implants
They may be considered in situations where more noticeable upper fullness is desired or when the person’s anatomy is suitable. The result depends not only on implant shape, but also on placement plan and existing tissue.
Anatomical Implants
They have a teardrop-like form that provides more volume distribution in the lower part. Suitability is determined according to breast structure, tissue thickness and targeted appearance.
What does implant profile mean?
Profile refers to how much the implant projects forward from the chest wall relative to its base width. The decision between low, moderate or high profile options is not made only according to the desire for a more noticeable appearance. A profile that is not compatible with chest wall width and breast base measurements may go beyond natural boundaries or create unnecessary pressure on soft tissue.
How is implant volume determined?
Implant volume is expressed in cubic centimeters (cc); however, the same cc does not create the same bra size or the same appearance in every body. Breast base, existing breast tissue, body length and implant profile all affect the result together. Therefore, the final selection is made after examination, measurement and surgical planning.
Is a Breast Implant Placed Under or Over the Muscle?
A breast implant can be placed under the breast tissue, under the muscle fascia, under the pectoral muscle, or at the dual plane level. There is no single “best” placement level that applies to every patient. The decision is made according to the thickness of existing breast tissue, skin structure, implant characteristics, the person’s physical activity level and the targeted breast form.
Under the Breast Tissue
The implant is positioned under the breast tissue and above the pectoral muscle. It may be considered in suitable people with adequate soft tissue coverage.
Under the Muscle Fascia
This is the plane where the implant is placed under the fascia layer covering the pectoral muscle. Suitability is evaluated according to tissue structure.
Under the Muscle
This refers to positioning part or all of the implant under the pectoral muscle. It may help cover the upper part of the implant in patients with thin tissues.
Dual Plane
This is a combined placement approach in which the upper part of the implant is covered by muscle and the lower part is covered by breast tissue.
The placement plan may affect the result and recovery process
Implant visibility, shape changes that may occur during movement, upper pole transition and early tightness sensation may differ according to the selected anatomical plane. Advantages and limitations should be discussed individually during the examination.
How Is the Incision Site Determined in Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Different incision areas such as the inframammary fold, around the nipple or the armpit may be used to place the implant. Incision selection is made by considering implant type and size, breast anatomy, previous surgeries, scar placement and the surgeon’s need for safe access.
Inframammary Fold
This is an incision made through the natural fold under the breast. It may allow the implant pocket to be prepared under direct vision and the inframammary fold to be planned in a controlled manner.
Around the Nipple or Armpit
Alternative incision areas may be evaluated in suitable patients. Each approach has different technical limitations in terms of tissue access and scar location.
Every surgical incision leaves a scar. The goal is not for the scar to disappear completely, but for it to become less noticeable over time by placing it in an appropriate anatomical line, applying as little trauma to tissues as possible and managing postoperative care correctly.
Breast Augmentation or Breast Lift?
Breast augmentation surgery increases volume and projection; however, it may not always be sufficient on its own to correct noticeable sagging. If the nipple has descended below the inframammary fold, excess skin is noticeable or breast tissue has moved downward, breast lift surgery may be required.
In people with both volume loss and sagging, implant and lift can be combined within the same surgical plan. On the other hand, if existing breast volume is sufficient and the main problem is only loss of position, it may also be possible to perform a lift without using an implant. The decision is based on evaluating the expectation of “larger or lifted?” together with anatomical findings.
If the Main Problem Is Volume Loss
If the nipple is at an appropriate level and excess skin is limited, augmentation with an implant alone may be sufficient.
If Sagging Accompanies Volume Loss
Augmentation and lift may be evaluated together to reshape the breast tissue and remove excess skin.
To review the differences between the two operations in more detail, you can use the article titled breast lift or breast augmentation? For the general approach in which breast augmentation, reduction and lift options are considered together, you can review the breast aesthetics page.
Breast Augmentation with Fat Injection
In breast augmentation with fat injection, fat tissue taken by liposuction from suitable areas such as the abdomen, waist, hips or thighs is processed with special techniques and then injected into the breast area in controlled layers. The main difference of this method is that no foreign implant is used.
Fat injection may generally be considered in people who want a limited and softer volume increase and have sufficient donor fat in their body. Not all of the injected fat may be permanent; some of it may be absorbed by the body during the healing process. It should be known that more than one session may be required depending on the targeted volume and that the noticeable volume increase achieved with implants may not be possible with fat injection in every person.
Implants and fat injection are not exact equivalents of each other
While implants may provide a more predictable and noticeable volume increase, fat injection has features such as more limited volume, the need for sufficient donor fat and variable retention rate. Which method is suitable is determined according to the person’s expectations and anatomy.
Evaluate the implant and surgical plan suitable for your breast structure together
Implant volume, shape and placement plan can only be determined individually after anatomical measurement and examination. You can create an evaluation appointment at the clinic in Istanbul Şişli / Nişantaşı.
How Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Performed?
Breast augmentation surgery is performed in a hospital environment and mostly under general anesthesia. The surgical plan is reviewed one final time according to the measurements made before surgery; the incision line, inframammary fold and the area where the implant will be placed are marked.
The selected incision area is used to prepare the appropriate anatomical pocket for the implant. After bleeding control is achieved, the planned implant is placed and the height, volume and fold relationship between the two breasts are evaluated. If necessary, small planning differences can be checked again during surgery. Incisions are closed in accordance with anatomical layers and dressing is applied.
1. Surgical Marking
The breast midline, existing inframammary fold, planned new borders and asymmetry points are determined.
2. Preparation of the Implant Pocket
The selected subglandular, submuscular or dual plane area for the implant is created in a controlled manner.
3. Implant Placement
The implant suitable for the measurements is placed and breast form and balance between the two sides are checked.
4. Closure and Follow-Up
Incisions are closed in layers, dressing is applied and the postoperative follow-up plan is started.
Operation duration may vary depending on the technique used, accompanying asymmetry correction, implant replacement or the presence of an additional procedure such as breast lift. Hospital stay and discharge decisions are also made according to personal health status and the scope of the operation.
Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation
In the first days after surgery, tightness, pressure sensation, swelling and temporary limitation of movement may be seen in the chest area. Especially in cases where the implant is placed under the muscle, more tightness may be felt during movements involving the chest muscle. Regular use of prescribed medications and compliance with the follow-up plan are important.
First Days
Rest, short walks, protection of wound care and avoiding sudden movements that strain the arms are prioritized.
First Weeks
Return to daily life varies from person to person. Heavy lifting, intense exercise and movements that strain the upper body should not be started without the doctor’s approval.
A medical bra may need to be used for the recommended period after surgery. Sleeping position, showering, driving, returning to work and starting sports are explained individually according to the scope of the surgery. Since smoking negatively affects wound healing, it is important to stop it before and after surgery.
The appearance in the first weeks is not the final result. It takes time for swelling to decrease, the implant to adapt to the planned position and tissues to soften. The healing speed of the two breasts may not be the same; mild level or firmness differences seen in the early period may change during follow-up.
Will There Be Scars After Breast Augmentation?
A surgical incision is required to place the breast implant, and every incision creates a permanent scar. The scar may be located in the inframammary fold, around the nipple or in the armpit. The length and visibility of the scar may vary depending on the technique used, implant size, skin characteristics, genetic tendency, smoking and wound care.
Scars may appear pink, firm or raised in the early period. During the maturation process, they usually soften and lighten in color; however, they should not be expected to disappear completely. If the person has a tendency to form scars, silicone-based products, sun protection or different scar treatments may be considered at the appropriate time.
Possible Risks of Breast Augmentation Surgery
As with every surgical procedure, breast augmentation surgery also carries risks such as bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, delayed wound healing, anesthesia-related problems, noticeable scarring, pain, sensory changes and unwanted differences between the two breasts.
In operations where implants are used, implant-specific conditions such as capsular contracture, implant displacement or rotation, palpable implant edges, rippling appearance, changes in the inframammary fold, disruption of implant integrity and the need for additional surgery in later years may also occur.
Capsular Contracture
This is the hardening of the natural capsule tissue formed by the body around the implant, causing tightness, shape change or pain in the breast.
Disruption of Implant Integrity
Different situations may occur, including deflation in saline-filled implants and silent rupture without symptoms in silicone gel implants.
Changes in Position and Symmetry
Displacement of the implant downward, sideways or in another direction may affect breast shape and the balance between the two sides.
Rare Implant-Associated Conditions
The rare type of lymphoma called BIA-ALCL has been associated especially with certain textured-surface implants. Evaluation is required if persistent swelling, fluid accumulation, a mass or pain occurs in the late period.
Informed decision-making requires discussing not only benefits but also limitations
Before surgery, the characteristics of the implant to be used, expected change, possible risks, alternative methods and the possibility of additional surgery in the future should be evaluated clearly.
Can Breast Implants Be Used for a Lifetime?
Breast implants are not devices guaranteed to be used for a lifetime without any follow-up. However, there is also no single rule that applies to everyone stating that an implant with no problems must automatically be replaced only because a certain number of years has passed. The decision for replacement is made according to complaints, examination findings, imaging results, the condition of the implant and the person’s expectations.
In silicone gel implants, disruption of integrity may sometimes not show any external symptoms. Therefore, regular clinical follow-up and, when necessary, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging may be used. Keeping the device card containing the implant’s brand, model and serial information is important for future follow-ups.
In which situations should follow-up not be delayed?
- Newly developing or progressively increasing firmness in the breast
- Unilateral and persistent swelling or noticeable volume change
- Newly developing pain, mass or fluid sensation
- Changes noticed in breast shape, implant position or inframammary fold
- Suspicion about implant integrity after trauma
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Breast Screening
Pregnancy is possible after breast augmentation surgery. However, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight change and aging may affect breast skin and natural breast tissue; therefore, the form achieved with surgery may change over time. In people planning pregnancy in the near future, surgery timing should be evaluated separately.
The possibility of breastfeeding may vary according to the person’s milk production capacity before surgery, the incision and surgical technique used, and the degree to which breast tissue and milk ducts are affected. It is important for people who plan to breastfeed in the future to share this expectation during the examination.
People with breast implants should continue routine breast health checks appropriate for their age and personal risk status. Before mammography or other imaging procedures, the technician and relevant physician should be informed that implants are present. Implant follow-up and breast cancer screening have different purposes and are planned individually.
Are Aesthetic Breast Augmentation and Breast Reconstruction the Same Procedure?
Aesthetic breast augmentation aims to regulate the volume and form of existing breast tissue in line with the person’s expectations. Breast reconstruction, performed after cancer surgery, trauma, congenital differences or significant tissue loss, is a reconstructive process aimed at recreating lost tissue.
Although implants can be used in both fields, the surgical purpose, existing tissues and planning are different. Reconstructive surgery may sometimes require flap methods using the person’s own tissues in addition to implants, or multiple staged operations.
Why Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu?
Breast augmentation surgery requires evaluating not only implant volume selection, but also breast tissue anatomy, blood circulation, chest wall structure, inframammary fold, possible asymmetries and the long-term behavior of tissues together.
Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu’s academic and clinical experience in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery contributes to handling aesthetic goals together with tissue safety, anatomical limits and personalized planning. His academic publications, invited lectures, educational roles and professional work can be accessed from the scientific studies page.
Personalized Measurement and Planning
Implant width, profile, volume, incision site and placement level are determined separately according to the person’s breast structure.
Aesthetic and Reconstructive Perspective
Breast form is evaluated not only in terms of size, but also in terms of tissue integrity, symmetry, scar placement and long-term changes.
Breast Augmentation Surgery Prices in Istanbul
Breast augmentation surgery prices in Istanbul may vary depending on the characteristics of the implant to be used, surgical technique, implant placement plan, whether an additional procedure such as asymmetry correction or breast lift is required, hospital conditions and personalized treatment plan.
Since each patient’s breast structure and needs are different, it is not accurate to determine a standard operation plan and exact price only by phone or message. After the examination, implant selection, scope of surgery, hospital process, follow-ups and possible additional procedures are clarified and personalized information is provided.
Compare the scope of the operation as well as the price
When making an evaluation, the brand and features of the implant, the hospital where the surgery will be performed, the anesthesia process, surgical follow-up and whether postoperative controls are included in the planning should be considered together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation
How many cc implants are used in breast augmentation surgery?
Implant volume is not determined only according to the desired bra size. Breast base, chest wall, existing tissue thickness, implant profile and targeted appearance are evaluated together. The same cc may create different results in different people.
Do round or anatomical implants look more natural?
A natural appearance does not depend only on implant shape. The implant’s width, profile, placement level and the thickness of the breast tissue covering the implant are all effective. The suitable option is determined by examination.
Does breast augmentation surgery correct sagging?
In limited skin looseness, an implant may provide a certain degree of fullness; however, if there is noticeable sagging, augmentation alone may not be sufficient. Breast lift or augmentation with lift may be considered.
Should a breast implant be placed under the muscle?
Submuscular placement is not mandatory or the only correct option for every patient. Subglandular, subfascial and dual plane options may also be evaluated according to tissue thickness, lifestyle and the targeted result.
When can one return to work after breast augmentation?
Return to work varies according to the physical demands of the job, implant placement and the person’s healing speed. Return to desk work and return to heavy physical work are not the same; personal timing is determined during follow-ups.
When can exercise be started after breast augmentation?
Short walks may be allowed in the early period; however, weightlifting, running and exercises that strain the upper body should not be started without the doctor’s approval. The duration varies according to the surgical technique.
Can breast implants rupture?
Disruption of the outer shell of the implant may occur over time or due to reasons such as trauma. Deflation is easier to notice in saline-filled implants, while silent rupture may occur in silicone gel implants. Imaging is performed when there is suspicion.
Are breast implants replaced every 10 years?
There is no rule that applies to everyone stating that every implant must automatically be replaced in the 10th year. Implants are not lifetime devices; the decision for replacement is made according to complaints, examination, imaging and the condition of the implant.
Can breastfeeding be possible after breast augmentation?
Many people can breastfeed after surgery; however, breastfeeding capacity may vary according to preoperative characteristics and the technique used. People who plan pregnancy in the future should share this during the examination.
When does the breast augmentation result settle?
The volume change is visible immediately after surgery; however, reduction of swelling, adaptation of the implant to its position and softening of tissues occur over weeks to months. The final appearance should not be evaluated in the early period.
Is it possible for the two breasts to be completely identical?
Natural asymmetries exist in the human body. Noticeable differences can be reduced with surgery; however, it cannot be guaranteed that the two breasts will be mathematically completely identical.
Is a drain used in breast augmentation surgery?
Drain use may vary according to the surgical technique, implant pocket, bleeding control and accompanying procedures. It may not be routinely necessary in every patient; the decision is made during surgery.
Medical Information and Content Currency
This page has been prepared for general informational purposes about the scope, planning process, alternatives and possible risks of breast augmentation surgery. The information here does not replace personal examination, diagnosis or treatment recommendations. The suitable surgical method can only be determined after physical examination and health evaluation.
Last update: July 2026
Contact and Examination Appointment
You can contact Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu’s clinic in Istanbul Şişli / Nişantaşı to get detailed information about breast augmentation surgery, evaluate implant options suitable for your breast structure and create a personalized surgical plan.
During the examination, your expectations, anatomical measurements, implant options, scope of surgery, recovery process, possible risks and long-term follow-up plan are evaluated according to your personal condition. For information about choosing a specialist in Istanbul and the plastic surgery evaluation process, you can review the Istanbul plastic surgeon page.
Personalized breast augmentation planning in Istanbul Şişli / Nişantaşı
You can create an appointment for a breast augmentation evaluation that is compatible with your body proportions and considers natural appearance and long-term tissue health.