There are three breast augmentation techniques. The first one is breast augmentation with implants, which uses implants usually filled with silicone gel to achieve a firm and soft texture. This technique is the most common breast augmentation procedure. Fat grafting breast augmentation is another technique which uses the patient’s own fat tissue to increase breast volume. During the procedure, fat is harvested in other areas of the body and reinjected in the breasts. Fat grafting offers a perfectly natural and permanent result, but it can only increase breast size by one cup. The third breast augmentation technique combines the two previous ones: implants and fat grafting to achieve the desired result.

Precautions after breast augmentation

In the case of breast implants: patients are advised to use a soft soap (neutral pH) for washing and wear a supportive bra night and day. Resting is the most important thing to do after surgery, which means no work for at least a week and no exercise for 4 to 6 weeks.

In the case of fat grafting breast augmentation : the same recommendations apply for washing and supporting the breasts with a special bra. Postoperative instructions specific to fat grafting include walking regularly, wearing a compressive garment in liposuction areas and taking blood thinners for 15 days after surgery. These instructions will be specified by your surgeon.

Breast augmentation recovery

Healing time can vary depending on the technique used and the patient. Definitive results can be seen 3 to 6 months after surgery. For patients with breast implants, postoperative pain is well tolerated and painkillers can be prescribed if necessary. Bruising develops in most cases and disappears after 15 days. Swelling (oedema) takes more time to resolve and disappears after a few months. For patients recovering from a fat grafting breast augmentation, soreness can be felt after the procedure, which can also be alleviated with prescribed painkillers. Bruising and swelling are also to be expected in the breasts area. These typically resolve 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.