What is breast surgery?
The term breast surgery refers to a group of aesthetic and reconstructive procedures that change the size, shape, position or firmness of the breasts. In practice, this most often means one of three different procedures, chosen according to what troubles the patient and what her goals are.
Breast augmentation involves placing silicone implants to increase volume and improve the shape of the breasts. Breast reduction removes excess glandular tissue, fat and skin in women whose overly large breasts cause physical discomfort. A breast lift (mastopexy) restores sagging breasts to a higher, firmer position, without necessarily adding an implant.
All three procedures can be performed on their own or in combination — for example, a lift with simultaneous implant augmentation when the breasts are both sagging and have lost volume. At Medical Time, the surgical plan is always made after a detailed consultation, examination and measurements, because there is no single solution that suits everyone.
The goal of modern breast surgery is not simply a larger or smaller size, but a natural appearance, proportion with the rest of the body and a result that stays harmonious over the long term. That is why the pre-operative conversation gives equal weight to the patient's wishes and to what is anatomically possible and safe to achieve.
Who is breast surgery for — indications
The reasons women choose breast surgery are both aesthetic and medical. With augmentation, the motive is most often small volume, asymmetry or loss of fullness after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss. With reduction, the priority is the physical discomfort that large breasts cause, while a lift is chosen for pronounced sagging.
Breast surgery may be the right solution in the following situations:
- naturally small breasts, or breasts that look disproportionate to the rest of the body
- pronounced asymmetry — one breast is noticeably larger or a different shape than the other
- loss of volume and fullness after pregnancy, breastfeeding or major weight loss
- sagging breasts in which the nipple sits below the level of the inframammary fold
- overly large breasts that cause pain in the neck, shoulders and back, and bra-strap grooves
- difficulty with physical activity, sweating and skin irritation beneath large breasts
- a wish to improve breast shape and regain confidence and freedom in choosing clothes
How breast surgery is performed — techniques
The technique depends on the type of procedure. For augmentation, the type and size of the implant, its position (over or under the pectoral muscle) and the incision site are all chosen. Today's implants are silicone, with a cohesive gel that holds its shape, and come in round or anatomical (teardrop) forms, in various dimensions and profiles.
The incision for augmentation is most often made in the inframammary fold, at the edge of the areola or in the armpit, so that the scar is as inconspicuous as possible. For reduction and lifting, the incisions are somewhat larger because excess skin and tissue must be removed and the nipple repositioned higher; the scar may run around the areola, vertically toward the inframammary fold, or in the shape of an inverted T.
All the details — implant type, position, incision shape and expected size — are decided together with the surgeon, based on the structure of the chest, the quality and amount of tissue and the patient's wishes. The aim is a natural result with discreet, well-hidden scars.
At Medical Time, precise measurements and assessment are carried out before surgery, and the patient is told why a particular technique is recommended. An honest conversation about the possibilities and limitations of each method is part of a responsible approach and is key to satisfaction with the result.
Preparing for breast surgery
Preparation begins with a consultation and examination, at which the surgeon assesses the condition of the breasts, takes measurements and agrees on the surgical plan with the patient. Because the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, standard pre-operative preparation for the safe use of anaesthesia is also needed.
The following is usually requested before surgery, with the exact scope tailored to your health:
It is important to tell the surgeon and anaesthesiologist everything about your health honestly, as this directly affects safety and the course of recovery.
- laboratory blood tests, including clotting parameters
- an ECG and, if needed, an examination by an internist or anaesthesiologist
- a breast ultrasound and, in older patients, a mammogram when recommended
- a list of all medications you take, especially blood thinners
- stopping smoking for several weeks before and after surgery, as smoking impairs healing
- information about chronic conditions, previous surgeries and drug allergies
- arranged escort on the day of surgery and help at home during the first days of recovery
The procedure, anaesthesia and duration
Breast surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, so the patient is asleep and feels nothing during the procedure. Before starting, the surgeon again marks the planned incision lines while the patient is standing, because the position of the breasts changes when lying down.
For augmentation, the surgeon creates a pocket for the implant through the chosen incision, over or under the pectoral muscle, and places the implant while attending to symmetry and position. For reduction and lifting, excess skin and tissue is removed, the nipple is moved higher and the breasts are given a higher, firmer shape. Finally, the wounds are carefully sutured in layers, and thin drains are sometimes placed.
The duration depends on the type of procedure. Breast augmentation usually takes about one to two hours, while reduction or lifting can take longer, as they are technically more demanding. After surgery the patient wakes in the recovery room, with monitoring of vital functions.
Throughout the operation the anaesthesiologist continuously monitors pulse, breathing, blood pressure and oxygen saturation, so the procedure is both calm for the patient and safe. The hospital stay is most often one day, and somewhat longer for more complex procedures, at the surgeon's discretion.
Recovery after breast surgery — realistic, phase by phase
Recovery is gradual and unfolds in phases. In the first days a feeling of tightness, swelling, bruising and breast tenderness are expected; pain is well controlled with prescribed medication and is moderate for most patients. Most women are up and moving around the room by the next day.
For the first two to three weeks, a special elastic bra is worn to support the breasts and help the swelling subside, while straining, lifting and raising the arms overhead are avoided. Many patients return to sedentary work in about one to two weeks, while physically demanding activities require more time.
Swelling subsides gradually over several weeks, and the final shape and softness of the breasts are usually seen only after a few months, once the tissue has fully healed and the implant has settled. Scars appear more prominent and reddish at first, then fade over the months and become less noticeable, though they remain permanent.
It is important to have realistic expectations: healing is individual, and patience during the first months is part of a successful result. At Medical Time, follow-up appointments are scheduled after surgery to monitor recovery and give clear recommendations.
- first days: swelling, bruising, a feeling of tightness and moderate breast tenderness
- wearing the elastic bra day and night, as instructed by the surgeon
- avoiding exertion, lifting and exercise for several weeks
- a gradual return to daily activities, starting with lighter and moving to more demanding ones
- final breast appearance and maturing of the scars over several months
Risks and possible side effects
Breast surgery is a standard procedure with a high level of safety when performed by an experienced team in a well-equipped facility, but like any operation it carries certain risks that should be discussed openly before deciding. The great majority of patients recover without complications.
Possible side effects and risks include:
Following the instructions before and after surgery, stopping smoking and attending regular check-ups significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. The purpose of discussing risks is not to frighten, but to enable an informed and calm decision.
- swelling, bruising and a temporary change in the sensitivity of the nipple and skin
- infection, bleeding or fluid collection that sometimes requires an additional intervention
- visible or thickened scars, which also depend on the skin's tendency to scar
- capsular contracture — thickening of the capsule around the implant after augmentation
- asymmetry, a change in implant position or the need for correction in the future
- an effect on breastfeeding and sensitivity, discussed before surgery
- general risks associated with anaesthesia, which are assessed before the procedure
Why have your breast surgery at Medical Time
Breast surgery is a decision that calls for trust, expertise and an honest conversation. At the Medical Time hospital in Belgrade we combine an experienced team of plastic surgeons, modern equipment and an individual approach in which the plan is made for you, not from a one-size-fits-all template.
From the first consultation, through measurements and choice of technique, to post-operative check-ups, everything is available in one place, with clear information and realistic expectations. Diagnostics, laboratory work and anaesthesiology assessment are carried out within the same facility.
- an experienced team of plastic surgeons and an individual surgical plan
- a detailed consultation, measurements and an honest talk about possibilities and limitations
- modern equipment and high standards of safety and sterilisation
- constant supervision by the anaesthesiologist throughout the operation
- complete preparation, diagnostics and check-ups in one place
- team support throughout recovery and regular follow-up appointments
Cost — breast surgery
The cost of breast surgery depends on the type of procedure (augmentation, reduction or lift), the choice and type of implant, the extent of surgery and the complexity of the individual case. For this reason, the final price is set only after a consultation and examination, when the surgeon proposes a plan suited specifically to you.
For an individual assessment, all information about preparation and an appointment, get in touch — we will gladly answer any question.
- Breast augmentation with silicone implants
- Breast reduction
- Breast lift (mastopexy)
- Combined lift with implant augmentation
For an individual assessment and an appointment, call 062-399-888.
Frequently asked questions about breast surgery
The surgery itself is performed under general anaesthesia, so you feel nothing during the procedure. Afterwards a feeling of tightness and moderate tenderness appear, both well controlled with prescribed painkillers, and they gradually ease during the first days.
Many patients return to lighter, sedentary activities in about one to two weeks. Exertion, exercise and lifting are avoided for several weeks, while the final breast shape and the fading of the scars are seen only after a few months.
Modern silicone implants with a cohesive gel are used, in round or anatomical shapes and various sizes and profiles. The type and size are chosen together with the surgeon, according to the structure of the chest, the amount of tissue and your wishes.
For augmentation the scar is most often hidden in the inframammary fold, at the edge of the areola or in the armpit. For reduction and lifting the incisions are larger. Scars are permanent, but they fade over the months and become less noticeable, and their final appearance also depends on the skin's tendency to scar.
Many women can breastfeed even after surgery, but this depends on the type of procedure and the technique. The effect of surgery on breastfeeding and nipple sensitivity is discussed beforehand, so you have a clear picture before deciding.
The special elastic bra is usually worn for the first few weeks, day and night, as instructed by the surgeon. It supports the breasts, helps the swelling subside and contributes to a nicer final shape.
Yes. Over time the appearance of the breasts is affected by ageing, changes in body weight, pregnancy and the effect of gravity. In some patients a need for correction or implant replacement may arise in the future, which is discussed in advance.
The price depends on the type of procedure, the choice of implant and the complexity of the surgery, so it is set after a consultation and examination. For an individual assessment and an appointment, call 062-399-888.