Op. Dr. Bora Yücel
klinikest@gmail.com +90 (545) 191 49 19
- Sep 12, 2025
- 4 min read
- Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Bora Yücel
What are the steps of breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery aims to enhance the size and shape of the breasts, involving the insertion of implants to achieve a fuller and more youthful appearance. For those considering this procedure, it’s essential to understand the steps involved to make an informed decision and prepare for the process.
Breast enlargement surgery involves the following steps:
Consultation
Before undergoing breast augmentation, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this meeting, the surgeon will:
Under or Over The Muscle?
Silicone or Fat Injection?
This consultation is crucial in determining the right course of action to achieve your desired results.
Pre-Operative Preparation
- Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon may request blood tests, imaging studies (like mammograms), and other tests to be sure you're in good health for the surgery.
- Medications and Supplements: You may need to stop taking certain medications, like blood thinners, for a specified time before surgery.
- Smoking and Alcohol: You should avoid smoking for several weeks before surgery.
- Plan for Recovery: Plan for a recovery period of several days to a week.
Anaesthesia
Before the surgery, anaesthesia will be administered. This is usually done using general anaesthesia, which will keep you unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Making the Incision
The surgeon will make incisions based on the surgical plan. Incisions can be made in the inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary areas. The choice of incision placement depends on various factors, including the type of implant, desired outcome, and surgeon's preference.
Implant Placement
There are two main options for implant placement: subglandular (above the chest muscle) or submuscular (beneath the chest muscle). The surgeon will discuss the most appropriate placement based on your anatomy, lifestyle, and desired outcome.
The implant is carefully positioned either behind the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle.
Incision Closure
Once the implants have been placed, the incisions are sealed using either sutures, surgical tape, or skin adhesive. The surgeon may use techniques to minimise scarring, such as placing the incisions in inconspicuous areas or using dissolvable sutures.
Dressings and Recovery
After the incisions are closed, dressings and a supportive bra or compression garment will be applied to support the breasts during the initial healing phase. Drainage tubes may be inserted to remove any excess fluid or blood that may accumulate.
Post-operative Monitoring
After being transferred to a recovery room, your surgeon will assess your vital signs, ensure your comfort, and provide any necessary pain medication.
Follow-up Care and Recovery
Your surgeon will provide you with comprehensive postoperative instructions that cover wound care, pain management, activity limitations, and follow-up appointments.
Depending on personal circumstances and the surgeon's style, the precise procedures and methods may change. Every surgical plan is customised based on the patient's particular requirements and goals. Your doctor will answer any questions you may have, explain the procedure in detail, and give you a thorough rundown of what to anticipate from your breast enlargement surgery during your consultation.
What are the healing phases of breast augmentation?
To get the best results from breast augmentation, the healing process is essential. Knowing the stages of healing will help you control your recuperation, establish reasonable goals, and determine when to consult a doctor if issues develop.
The recovery phases of breast enlargement surgery can be broken down into several stages.
Right After Surgery:
You will be observed in the recovery area until the anesthesia's effects begin to wear off. During this period, you might feel drowsy, groggy, and a little uncomfortable.
To offer support and aid in reducing swelling, you will be given bandages or dressings. The initial swelling may cause you to feel constricted in the chest area.
During the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery:
You may experience some pain, swelling, and soreness. To treat any discomfort, your doctor might recommend painkillers. It's possible for your breasts to feel sensitive and tender when touched.
It is advised to avoid any physically demanding activities during this time and to relax and take it easy. During a follow-up visit, any drainage tubes that were placed to remove extra fluid from the surgical site will be taken out.
First week:
In the first week following surgery, swelling and bruising are normal and usually reach their peak. Your breasts may seem tight and high at first, but they will eventually settle into a more natural position.
As directed by your surgeon, you will wear a supportive bra to help reduce swelling, offer appropriate support, and encourage healing. Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to take a shower and take care of your incision. It's critical to adhere to any special care instructions and keep the incisions dry and clean.
Weeks 2 to 3:
Less Swelling: During the second and third weeks, swelling will continue to lessen, but it may still be apparent, particularly around the incision sites. Your breasts will begin to take a more natural shape.
Sensitivity Improvement: Some patients may have hypersensitivity or numbness in the breast or nipple region, but such discomfort usually goes away with time. The breasts feeling firm during this stage is normal.
Returning to Normal Activities: Many patients are able to resume light activities and go back to work after one to two weeks. However, until your surgeon gives the all-clear, you should refrain from doing any strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
Weeks 4-6:
Your breasts will gradually take on a more natural shape and feel as the swelling and bruising continue to go down. Most people can resume light activities and return to work in a week or two.
For at least four to six weeks, you should continue to refrain from any heavy lifting, intense exercise, or activities that put strain on your chest muscles.
Months 1 to 3:
Your breasts will continue to settle and the scars will progressively disappear over the next few months. The final results won't be fully visible for several months.
Breast Softening: Your breasts ought to feel considerably softer and more natural by this point. By the time the implants settle in, the swelling should almost completely disappear.
Final Shape: Your breasts' size, shape, and symmetry will all significantly improve as the surgery's final effects begin to show.
Physical Comfort: You might still feel a little tight or uncomfortable, but this should be minimal by now.
6 Months to 1 Year:
The implants will have completely settled and the breast tissue will have softened, giving your breasts their final shape. The appearance should be exactly what was anticipated after six months.
Scar Fading: After six to twelve months, incision scars should start to disappear and become much less noticeable. Depending on personal healing factors, scarring can vary.
Long-Term Comfort: The majority of patients report little to no problems over the long term. The implants should stay firmly in place, and your breasts should feel entirely natural.
Individual recovery experiences may differ, and it is crucial to adhere to the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. They will offer tailored advice based on your particular situation. If you experience any problems or unexpected symptoms while recovering, speak with your surgeon.
Please contact us for more information.