Who considers breast augmentation
- Women whose breasts are naturally small or did not develop fully
- Women who lost volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Women with a difference in size between the two breasts
- Women who want to restore volume after a previous implant was removed
- Small volume
- Implant adds volume and shape
Choosing the implant
Modern implants have a silicone shell filled with cohesive silicone gel. They differ in shape — round or anatomical (teardrop) — in projection, and in width, which is matched to the width of your breast. Measurements of the chest and of the skin's stretch are taken during the consultation, and the options are explained with sizers.
- Even upper and lower pole
- Fuller lower pole
- Chest wall
Where the incision is placed
- Breast fold (inframammary) — the most common choice; the scar lies in the natural fold.
- Edge of the areola (periareolar) — useful when the areola is also adjusted.
- Armpit (axillary) — no scar on the breast itself, in selected cases.
- Breast fold (inframammary)
- Edge of the areola (periareolar)
- Armpit (axillary)
In front of or beneath the muscle
The implant can be placed beneath the breast tissue (subglandular or subfascial) or partly beneath the chest muscle (dual-plane). When the breast tissue is thin, muscle coverage softens the upper edge of the implant; when there is enough tissue, a position in front of the muscle avoids movement of the breast during muscle contraction.
- Implant
- Chest muscle
- Breast tissue
- Muscle cover
Recovery
Breast augmentation usually takes one to two hours under general anaesthesia, followed by one night in hospital or a day-case discharge. A supportive bra is worn for about six weeks. Most women return to desk work within a week and to sport after four to six weeks.
- 01ImplantCohesive silicone gel
- 02Operation1–2 hours
- 03Hospital stayDay case or 1 night
- 04Stay in IstanbulAbout 5–7 days
Long-term care and risks
Implants are not lifetime devices; some women need another operation years later because of capsular contracture, rupture or a change in breast shape. Regular check-ups and, where advised, ultrasound or MRI are recommended. Textured implants have been associated with a rare lymphoma (BIA-ALCL); the type of implant used is recorded on your implant card.
Breast augmentation in Istanbul, Turkey
For breast augmentation, most international patients stay in Istanbul for about five to seven days. Your implant card, with the type and size of implant used, is given to you before you return home.
Frequently asked questions
How much does breast augmentation cost in Turkey?
The cost depends on the implant brand and type, the hospital stay and whether a lift is also needed. A personal quote is given after your photographs and measurements have been reviewed.
When can I fly home after breast augmentation?
Most patients can fly about 5–7 days after breast augmentation, once the wounds have been checked.
How long do breast implants last?
There is no fixed expiry date. Many implants remain in place for well over ten years, but further surgery may be needed at some point. Regular check-ups help detect problems early.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Most women can, particularly when the incision is placed in the breast fold and the implant is placed beneath the gland or muscle.
How is the right size chosen?
The width of your chest and breast, the quality of your skin and your wishes are combined. Trying sizers during the consultation helps visualise the result.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Fatih Kılıç, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon. This page is for general information and does not replace an individual consultation.