Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in Greece and abroad, while in women from 19 to 34 years old it is probably the most popular plastic procedure.

Augmentation mammoplasty involves placing implants, which are surrounded by a silicone casing and contain either silicone gel or saline. Less often it is done by injecting fat taken from the abdomen and buttocks.

The first breast augmentation procedures began in the US in the 60s and have since spread worldwide. In the decades of the 80s and 90s, they flourished. But what has changed since then?

Implants

The implants used today are more durable, with a rough surface and with a variety of shapes. Previous types of implants were smooth surfaced and had a greater risk of fibrous capsule formation (palpable hardness in the breast) and required faster replacement than today.

Placement

Today, placement is done more often under the muscle (pectoralis major) or fascia of the muscle, rather than under the mass gland (breast) as in the past. This leads to a more natural effect on the breast without pointing out the silicone and, at the same time, it reduces the possibility of fibrous capsule formation. Women retain their sense of touch and can breastfeed.

Best technique: Dual Plane

Incisions

The incisions are now smaller than in the past and become less noticeable over time. They are around 4cm long and can be done in the nipple, armpit and most often under the breast.

The operative time has already been reduced. The procedure lasts about 1 hour and the patient can be discharged the same day. The patient can return to work in 1 week.

All the above progress makes this procedure even more accessible to the average Greek woman, while at the same time the chances of post-operative complications are significantly reduced.