What is Breast Lift with Implants and Why is it Preferred?
Breast lift with implants, as the name suggests, is a combination of two different procedures:
Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Aims to restore sagging breasts to a perkier, firmer and more youthful position.
Breast Augmentation (Implant Placement): It aims to increase breast volume by using silicone or saline-filled implants.
When these two surgeries are performed in the same session, both the sagging problem of the breast is eliminated and the desired fullness is achieved. If we explain this with a simple analogy: Imagine a pillowcase that is partially empty and sagging like a bag. You can think of it as first tightening and narrowing this sheath (breast lift) and then adding a sufficient amount of filler (implant) into it. In this way, you can achieve a firmer, well-formed and as full as you want in terms of volume.
Breast lift with implants is generally preferred by people with moderate or severe breast sagging and volume loss. Patients who see that their breasts lift up, become fuller and symmetry improves after surgery usually report a significant increase in self-confidence. Although this procedure is about physical appearance, it also contributes significantly to personal happiness and a sense of comfort.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Breast Lift with Implants?
One of the most important factors when deciding on a breast lift with implants is the person's own body structure and expectations. Some people experience only mild sagging and minimal volume loss; in this case, only breast lift or only implant placement may be preferred. On the other hand, if there is severe sagging and volume loss, breast lift with implants becomes the most ideal method. So, which points should be considered for this procedure?
Degree of Breast Sagging
The degree of breast sagging is determined by how far the nipple (nipple-areola complex) falls below the lower breast line. If the nipple is below the inframammary fold and even looks down, this usually indicates a level that requires a lift.
Volume Loss
Did your breasts used to be fuller but now look "hollow"? Are your breasts unable to provide the fullness you want in bras of the same size? Then it is conceivable to gain volume with the addition of implants.
Skin Elasticity
The elasticity of the skin is an important factor that determines how well the postoperative results will be maintained. In people with good skin elasticity, the breast tissue can maintain its form longer after lifting.
General Health Status
Conditions such as smoking, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes can affect the risk profile of the surgery and the healing process. Before breast lift with implants, the general health status of the person is evaluated.
Realistic Expectations
It is extremely important to know before the procedure that the surgery will not have a "magic wand" effect. Every body has its own characteristics and the results are shaped according to these characteristics.
If you feel comfortable with these factors, you are likely to be a suitable candidate for surgery. Before making a final decision, it is absolutely necessary to have a detailed examination and expert opinion.
How Does the Surgical Process Proceed?
Breast lift surgery with implants takes an average of 2 to 4 hours and is usually performed under general anesthesia. The duration varies depending on the patient's needs, the technique to be applied and the presence of additional procedures. We can summarize the surgical process step by step as follows:
Preparation
Standard tests such as blood tests and ECG are performed before the operation. Since smoking may adversely affect healing before and after surgery, it is recommended to take a break for a while if possible.
Planning the Incisions
There are several different incision (surgical incision) techniques for breast lift with implants. There can be periareolar (only around the nipple), vertical (vertical line; "lollipop" shaped) or inverted T (anchor, anchor-like) incisions. Which type of incision to choose depends on the degree of breast sagging and the size of the implant.
Breast Lift Phase
First, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is tightened and the nipple is moved to a higher desired position. This is the basic stage of sagging correction. Again, if we go back to the pillowcase example, the excess parts of the expanded and deformed cover are cut off, and the remaining part is re-sewn in a narrower form.
Implant Placement
Implants can usually be silicone or saline-filled. The choice is based on personal preferences, desired size and tactile sensation. Implants can be placed under the pectoral muscle (submuscular), under the muscle sheath (subfascial) or under the breast tissue (subglandular). Each method has its own advantages and possible side effects.
Closure and Wrapping
After the procedure is completed, the incision lines are closed with stitches. Your breasts will be wrapped with shaping bands or a bra-like support. In some cases, drains (thin tubes) may be inserted to monitor healing more easily and to prevent possible accumulation of blood or fluid.
At the end of the surgical process, the aim is to achieve a more upright, more vibrant and voluminous breast form. Although the success rate of the surgery is high, it is important to know one's own body, to clearly explain one's wishes to the physician and to carefully follow the recommendations in the postoperative period in order to get the best results.
What to Expect in the Recovery Period?
Although the recovery period after breast lift with implants varies from person to person, there are usually common points to be considered in the first few weeks:
Pain and Discomfort
In the first few days, pain, burning or pressure in the operation area is normal. Regular use of painkillers and antibiotics prescribed during this period both reduces pain and reduces the risk of infection.
Swelling and Bruises
After the surgical intervention, edema (swelling) and bruising can be observed in the chest area. These symptoms usually gradually decrease over a few weeks. In some people, this process may take a shorter time, while in others it may take up to several months.
Using a Supportive Bra
A special bra or elastic bandage is recommended to support the breast tissue and aid healing. These bras provide comfort by restricting excessive movement while maintaining the new shape of the breasts.
Physical Activity Limit
In the first weeks, it is not recommended to lift heavy weights, exercise intensely or strain the upper body area too much. This is very important to prevent the risk of opening of the suture line and change in the position of the implant. Light walks can contribute to healing by increasing blood circulation.
Sleep Position
It is recommended to rest on your back or side after the operation to avoid putting pressure on the breasts. Sleeping on your stomach should be postponed for a few weeks as it can overload the chest area.
Follow-up appointments
The first few weeks after surgery are very critical in terms of doctor control appointments. During this period, issues such as removal of stitches and early detection of possible complications may come up.
Some patience is required during the healing process. Although mild pain and restricted movements may be annoying in the first days, as the weeks progress, you may notice that your breasts get used to their new form and you feel better. Wearing a supportive bra, paying attention to hygiene and avoiding activities that will strain the body are very important to increase the permanence of the expected results.
What are the Possible Risks of Breast Lift with Implants?
As with any surgical intervention, there are some risks and the possibility of complications with an implant breast lift. Although these are unlikely to occur, it is important to be aware of them before the procedure:
Infection
It is one of the most common problems. Paying attention to hygiene rules and using antibiotics regularly during the postoperative recovery period significantly reduces the risk of infection. Nevertheless, if possible redness, severe pain or discharge is noticed, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Hematoma and seroma
Blood (hematoma) or tissue fluid (seroma) may accumulate at the surgical site. This can usually be controlled by drainage or additional intervention. If the swelling and discoloration become significant, medical intervention may be necessary.
Capsular Contracture
It is normal for the body to form a capsule as a kind of "defense" against the implant. However, in some people, this capsule may thicken and tighten, putting pressure on the implant and distorting the shape of the breast. This condition, described as "breast hardening", does not occur in all patients, but when it does, surgical correction may be required.
Implant Rupture
It is important to remember that implants are not a "lifetime guarantee" product. External factors or many years can cause silicone implants to leak or rupture. This can occur especially in the case of a traumatic blow or rare errors in the implant manufacturing process.
Sensory Changes
There may be numbness or hypersensitivity in or around the nipple. In most cases, this effect is temporary and disappears within a few months. However, in rare cases, permanent sensory changes may also occur.
BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma)
This very rare condition is a type of lymphoma especially associated with implants with textured surfaces. Although cases are rare in the world, awareness is still important. If fluid accumulation, pain or a lump is felt around the breast, a medical evaluation should be performed.
Although the risks can sometimes be frightening, it is important to remember that they are unlikely to occur and can be controlled. If the patient is in good general health and the surgeon is experienced, complications can be resolved with timely intervention.
How Permanent are the Results and How Should I Care?
Although breast lift with implants offers results that can maintain their form in the long term, factors such as aging of the body over time, gravity and weight changes can affect these results. In addition, breast implants are not lifetime products; although they can be used for 10-15 years or more without any problems, a check or replacement may eventually be required. The main factors affecting permanence are as follows:
Weight Control
Sudden weight gain and loss can cause the skin to loosen and sag again. Since the breast area is also rich in adipose tissue, it is highly affected by weight fluctuations.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Those planning a future pregnancy should consider the possibility of re-deformation of the breasts. Since breastfeeding causes the breasts to naturally grow and then shrink, there may be some change in shape.
Regular Check-ups
Just like car maintenance, periodic check-ups after breast lift with implants are also important. Visiting the doctor once a year in the first years and then every few years to assess the condition of the implants enables early detection of possible risks.
Supportive Clothing
In terms of maintaining the new shape, using supportive bras, especially during sports, does not strain the breast tissue and skin too much. This simple practice can significantly delay sagging in the long term.
When you apply these treatments without interruption, both lifting and implant results can be enjoyed for years. Regular inspection of implants is also useful for early detection of a rupture or leakage.
Summary and Conclusion
Breast lift with implants is a plastic surgery method that offers very satisfactory results in terms of both removing sagging and adding volume. On the one hand, mastopexy, which provides lifting by lifting the breast tissue, and on the other hand, it results in volume gain with implant placement. This method can be thought of as reshaping the pillowcase and adding filler: Tightening the texture and increasing the fullness aims to give the person a younger and more dynamic appearance.
This procedure should be shaped according to personal preferences as well as factors such as current body structure, skin elasticity and general health status. The clearer the expectations, the higher the postoperative satisfaction. On the other hand, as with any surgical intervention, it is important to remember that there are certain risks in breast lift with implants. Minimizing these risks is largely related to preoperative preparation, the experience of the surgical team, postoperative care and regular check-ups.
During the healing process, it is critical for the patient to be patient, to follow hygiene rules and not to overstrain his/her body in order for the procedure to yield successful results in the long term. In order to see the final result of the surgery, edema and bruises should be expected to disappear in the first weeks. As time passes and the tissue heals, the breasts take on a more natural form. Although surgical scars do not disappear completely, their visibility is often significantly reduced.
In the long term, lifestyle habits such as regular weight control, healthy eating and regular exercise help to maintain this new shape. It is also important to monitor the condition of the implants at regular intervals. To prevent the breasts from sagging again, it is always useful to avoid excessive weight changes and to take measures to maintain skin elasticity (moisturizing, sun protection, etc.) as much as possible.
