Breast Augmentation with Implants

The size of the implant will be determined by your attending physician together with you. There are implants with a volume of 80 to 750 ml. As a rule of thumb, about 200 ml corresponds to a bra size. Breast augmentations with a volume of 250 to 350 ml have the most natural effect.

Usually, breast implants with silicone gel are used. The new generation implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel. This is more viscous than the silicone gel of the past, which has the advantage that the implants are dimensionally stable and no silicone leaks even in the case of small cracks. In addition, there are implants with saline, which are filled with saline only after they have been anchored in position in the breast. Therefore, the operation can be performed with relatively small incisions. However, these implants feel unnatural when worn and lose size over time, which also changes the shape of the breast.

A distinction is made between the inframammary technique, in which the incision is made in the breast crease and the implant can be placed comfortably under the breast muscle. The axillary technique, however, has the advantage that the breast remains completely scar-free, since the incision is made in the armpit. In this very demanding technique, the implant is placed over the breast muscle.

Implants have different shapes. A distinction is made between round and teardrop-shaped implants. The teardrop ones look more natural, as they are most similar to the shape of the bust. Therefore, these implants are also called anatomical implants. Round implants, however, are mainly used when the décolleté is to be emphasized.

The implants differ in their surface structure. If implants with a smooth surface also feel more natural, this type is more likely to develop capsular fibrosis. Therefore, implants with a roughened surface are preferred nowadays.

Capsular fibrosis is a complication of breast augmentation that is as rare as it is feared. The body forms a thin layer of scar tissue around the implant. This is a normal immune reaction, as the implant is recognized as a foreign body and the organism tries to reject it. In rare cases, the immune system overreacts and the scar layer becomes too thick. This is called capsular fibrosis. In such a case, your attending physician will discuss the further treatment with you

The manufacturers give a guarantee of 10 years. However, on average, the new generation breast implants often last up to 20 years. Your attending physician will decide if and when a breast implant needs to be replaced. In principle, implants can remain in the body as long as they are not damaged, and you have no complaints.

Modern prostheses have a safe filler, but even it will not be able to leak, thanks to the barrier shell in 1-3 layers.