Frequently asked questions about breast augmentation (FAQ)

At what age is breast augmentation possible?

Breast augmentation can be considered when the patient's body is fully grown and its development is complete.

This can be assumed if the patient has reached the age of 18.

Up to what age is breast augmentation possible?

At an advanced age, the general state of health is more important than the age itself. As long as the tissue is sufficiently firm and elastic, breast augmentation can also be performed at an advanced age with very good results.

Can I have a breast augmentation during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

As the breasts change considerably during pregnancy and the subsequent breastfeeding phase, I would advise you to postpone the operation if you have a specific desire to have children. In any case, you should bring up the subject in a personal consultation and let me provide you with detailed information.

Can I still breastfeed after breast augmentation?

Normally, an implant is placed under the breast tissue so that breastfeeding is generally still possible. Problems can only arise if the implants are placed over the areola, as this can damage the milk ducts.

Which method of breast augmentation is better: implant or autologous fat?

Breast augmentation with implants is still a popular method for enlarging and shaping the breast. However, for women who want a more voluminous breast but do not want to have foreign bodies in the form of implants inserted, breast augmentation with autologous fat is an option.

With this treatment technique, the patient's own fat cells are first removed from the body and then injected into the breast area. The possible volume increase with the autologous fat method is somewhat smaller than with breast augmentation with implants - around half a cup to one cup size more is usually possible.

How much does the implant weigh?

The weight of an implant depends on its size and filling volume. A 250 cc implant filled with 250 cc of gel weighs approximately 250 grams. B-Lite implants weigh 30% less.

Can the implants leak or burst?

Today's implants almost exclusively contain a cohesive gel (consistency similar to wine gum), which does not leak even in the very unlikely event of a tear in the implant. The implant therefore retains its shape and cannot burst.

What complications can occur during breast surgery?

Breast augmentation performed by a specialist in aesthetic and plastic surgery is considered to have few complications. As with any surgical procedure, post-operative bleeding and wound healing problems can occur.

Capsular fibrosis is a specific complication following breast augmentation, although it occurs in less than 5% of procedures. As with any foreign body, a soft capsule of scar tissue always forms around an implant. In the event of increased capsule formation, this shell hardens and can subsequently contract to such an extent that the breast becomes deformed. In rare cases, a second operation is necessary. In principle, the risk can be greatly reduced by using silicone implants with a roughened (textured) surface.

Should I take painkillers after my breast augmentation and for how long?

Pain after breast augmentation is not only unpleasant, it also leads to an increase in blood pressure and thus to an increased risk of post-operative bleeding. I therefore recommend taking painkillers up to 3 times a day.

As a result, my patients are able to go about their daily lives without major restrictions very soon after breast augmentation. The duration and medication of the painkillers depends on your personal perception of pain. If the healing process is normal, you will be largely pain-free within a week.

Over time, however, there may be a renewed increase in pain if the patient puts more strain on themselves again. This can be quite normal. Taking painkillers for a short time can also be useful here.

What else should I avoid after my breast augmentation?

In order not to restrict blood circulation after breast augmentation, I recommend that you do not smoke for four weeks after the operation. You should also avoid activities that prevent swelling after breast augmentation - sauna, steam bath and hot baths.

Can I sleep on my stomach / on my side after my breast augmentation?

Immediately after breast augmentation, you should avoid sleeping on your stomach or on your side. As a rule, patients report that sleeping on their back with their head elevated is most comfortable for them. However, after 14 days, whatever works is allowed. Your body will tell you if the side position is limited due to pressure sensitivity from existing swelling.

Showering / washing your hair after breast augmentation?

After a breast augmentation, you may shower and wash your hair again from the day of the operation.

When can I resume heavy lifting or carrying my child after my breast augmentation?

You should avoid heavy lifting after breast augmentation. However, I am aware that as a mother you cannot achieve 100% protection in everyday life. If you have to lift your baby or toddler from time to time, nothing will usually be damaged. Your body will tell you what is acceptable.

How should I care for the scars after my breast augmentation?

Scar care after breast augmentation does not differ significantly from the treatment of scars in general. I recommend not applying any traction to the scar and not exposing the body area around the scar to UV radiation (sun, solarium) for approx. 12 months. A special scar massage promotes rapid healing.

When can I go back into the sun or solarium after breast augmentation?

This question is primarily about scar healing. Scars should not be exposed to direct UV radiation for the first year after breast augmentation. Only then will the scars have faded or healed and you will be able to sunbathe again without any restrictions. Until then, you should cover the scar area with a piece of fabric or mask the scar when you go to the solarium, for example.

Is breast cancer screening with implants still possible?

The implants have no influence on the feasibility and accuracy of mammography or sonography.

When will I see the final result of the breast augmentation?

A positive result can usually be seen immediately. However, it usually takes up to 12 months until all swelling is gone and the scars have healed.