Breast Implants Abroad, Breast Enlargement Prague, Czech

Learn about breast enlargement in Prague, breast augmentation abroad and various types of silicone breast implants. Breast enlargement or breast implants are an ideal solution for many women with small breasts.

Breast augmentation abroad, also known as breast enlargement, involves the surgical placement of an implant behind each breast to increase its volume and enhance the breast’s shape. Breast augmentation is requested by women who perceive their breasts to be too small or sagging.

Types of breast implants

Basic types of breast implants by shape:

Basic types of breast implants by filler:

Nowadays novelties in the implant fillings field occur regularly. Various substances are being tried and used as fillings, including soya-gel and hydrogel. These new types of implants aren’t in regular use yet.

Basic types of breast implants by surface:

Basic types by profile:

• moderate
• high

The size of the breast implants is indicated in mililitres. The choice doesn’t depend on size but on dimension. The selection depends on many factors, such as the woman’s figure, height, width of her chest, figure proportion, size of pelvis, size of mammary gland and of course, the patient’s wishes. The most popular sizes in the Czech Republic are 200 – 300ml. (Implants from about 100ml to 1000ml are available.)

To see what size might be right for you, use a plastic bag that can be filled with liquid or boiled rice. Put it into your bra to help you choose the correct implant size.

Most commonly used brands of silicon breast implants are:

• McGhan/Inamed
• Mentor
• Polytech

• Eurosilicon

All implants have their own passport – a document that states the number and size of the implant. This passport is given to every patient after the surgery.

What does the breast implant look like?

The implant is formed with an outer pocket made from polymerized silicone gum, which is very firm and elastic. The pocket contains one more inner layer, which guarantees a higher resistance to rupture and the minimum permeability of particles. The surface can be smooth, although at present implants with textured surface are preferred. They have pores of a certain size and depth and now also have a smaller risk of capsular contracture creation. A titanium film may be on the surface of the implant (which lends itself to good tolerance with the body) or polyurethane. Inside the pocket there is soft cohesive silicone gel, saline, combination of both or even one of the other substances mentioned above. The cohesiveness of silicone gel particles enables the implant to keep its shape, lowers the risk of permeability of silicone micro-particles through the pocket and avoids the possible leakage of silicone in the event the cover ruptures. The silicone gel filled implant is used most often because of the reduced harmfulness risk on the body from silicone.

Price of breast implants

The price of breast implants ranges from about 18,000 to 50,000 CZK depending on the type of implant and the producer. For round shapes, the price ranges from 18,000 to 28,000 CZK and from 40,000 to 50,000 CZK for anatomic shapes. Prices are independent of size.

Breast augmentation abroad

When choosing a surgical procedure consider the following options.

The placement of the incision:

The choice depends on the desire and preference of the patient and on the usual practice of the clinic.

The placement of the implant:

Both methods (under the muscle and under the mammary gland) have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice depends on the quality and size of the gland, the quality of the skin and the subcutis, as well as the strength and quality of the muscle. The implant coverage has to be sufficient. If it is not sufficient, the implant can be visible and won’t look aesthetically pleasing. The pre-surgery consultation is intended to harmonize the patient’s ideas with real possibilities in regards to their body proportion, and with the advice of the surgeon.

For more information about breast enlargement abroad or breast augmentation in Prague please take a look at the linked pages.

The process of breast augmentation

In most cases, breast augmentation will be performed under general anesthesia. The surgery usually takes one to two hours and one to two days stay in hospital may be needed.

The method of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon’s recommendation. The three-four cm long incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, through the dark skin surrounding the nipple or in the armpit. Every incision is made carefully so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible.

A pocket in which the implant is inserted is created through blunt tissue preparation.

Some of the clinics abroad even use endoscopic technique by augmentation. The access for this technique is through an incision in the armpit or in the navel area.

The pocket will be filled with the implant either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath the chest wall muscle.

The size of implants must be carefully chosen in order to be fully covered by the breast tissue. Otherwise the edges of the implants can be easily seen and makes for a very unnatural look.

The cessation of bleeding is very important to avoid further complications – an undesirable capsule, a scar or poor coverage of the implant.

Drainage tubes may be used for several days following the surgery; it depends on the practice of the clinic and on the surgeon.

To close the wound, different sutures are used (mostly intradermal, eventually separate;) they are removed seven to 10 days after the surgery.

How the wound is covered is also up to the practice of the clinic. After the surgery, the breasts are fixed day and night with a special bra. It is recommended to wear this bra four to eight weeks after the surgery. For one month after the surgery, sleeping on your back and limiting sport activities is also recommended.

Are you a good candidate for breast augmentation?

Breast enlargement by means of implants is a very effective procedure. It is suitable for women with insufficiently developed breasts or when the mammary gland system is shrinking, as may be the case following breast feeding or a significant weight loss.

The optimal age limit for surgery varies. It is generally done after the development of the mammary glands is complete, which is usually after the age of 16.

It is certainly better to insert the implants into breasts that won’t change by potential breast feeding. Although it doesn’t eliminate the possibility to undergo breast augmentation before pregnancy; you have to take into account that lactation and pregnancy will change the size and quality of the mammary gland and therefore the surgery will probably need to be redone. It is better to undergo breast augmentation at least one year after the delivery and breast feeding.

Breast implants have no influence on the fetus and they do not expose it to any danger. The presence of implants does not hinder the ability to breast-feed. Studies done worldwide have not found an increased content of silicone in breast milk.

Some women request the implants to be placed as close to each other as possible to create a sexy line between the breasts. Unfortunately this effect is caused by the body’s constitutionand by the distance between the mammary glands therefore it is not possible to create it on demand.

Before breast enlargement

During your initial consultation, your surgeon will explain the surgery in detail. He will explain which surgical technique is most appropriate for you based on the condition of your breasts and skin tension. He/she will also show you before and after pictures and different types of implants.

If your breasts are sagging, the surgeon may also additionally recommend a breast lift. The surgeon will also inform you which implants he or she will use and which size is appropriate for you to achieve the best result.

Because it is a surgery performed under general anesthesia a pre-surgical examination including a laboratory examination and EKG by a general doctor or internal specialist is necessary. The exam should also include a detailed health history i.e. family diseases, diseases that you have had, allergies etc. At some clinics it is possible to have these examinations done in the morning the same day of the surgery.

Before the surgery it is also necessary to eliminate the possibility of breast illness by ultrasound (sonogram) or mammogram examination depending on the patient’s age. They are performed by special oncological and gynecological clinics. This is mostly done if you are a high risk patient due to a family history of breast cancer.

Your surgeon will give you instructions to prepare for surgery. You should avoid drinking and eating 6 hours before the planned surgery. Any medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (such as Aspirin, Acylpyrin, Alnagon, Mironal etc.) can increase bleeding during and after surgery They therefore shouldn’t be taken for about a week before the planned surgery. It is not good to undergo the surgery during menstruation, although it is not a reason to postpone the surgery. It is appropriate to consult your gynecologist concerning quitting birth control. Today’s opinion is to keep taking birth control pills and preventively taking medication against blood coagulation – low molecular heparin (e.g. Fraxiparin, Clexan, Fragmin.)

It is assumed that no acute illness (viral illness, cold, etc.) will have occurred in the period at least three weeks before the planned operation. Report any illness to your doctor.

If you smoke, plan to quit at least one or two weeks before your surgery and do not resume for at least two weeks after your surgery.

The day of the surgery you should come with your armpits shaved, if the surgical method has been agreed upon.  Bring any medication that you take with you for 2-3 days, hygienic items, shoes, pyjamas, ID papers, and an elastic bra without wire support that’s the same size as the chosen implants. Some clinics have them for sale. Clothes that need to be put on over the head are not suitable for the hospital stay. Putting on such clothes after the procedure might be very painful.

While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to help you out for a day or two if needed.

The costs of the surgery are usually paid for on the day of arrival, before the procedure. An advance deposit is paid at the booking date. Everything depends on the rules of each particular clinic. Since it is an elective surgery, it’s not covered by insurance companies. It is also necessary to take some days off of work because it is not possible to receive a sickness leave.

After breast enlargement

You are likely to feel pain for a few days following your surgery. The pain is more intense when the implant is placed under the muscle. You will take painkillers for two to five days following the surgery; the pain will slowly recede.

You will probably be released from the clinic after one or two days. Before you leave, the bandages may be changed and the drains removed. That will depend on the clinic and your surgeon. The sutures are usually removed during the check-up in seven to ten days.

It is recommended to wear an elastic bra. You will usually get it at the clinic where the procedure is performed. The length of time to wear it is decided by the surgeon. It is usually 4-8 weeks after the surgery and following that, during sport activities. The surgeon may sometimes recommend a medical belt. It is usually used if the implant was inserted through the armpit, and so it squeezes the formed canal. It can also be used if placement of the implant was under the muscle, so that it pushes it downwards, and generally in other situations when the bra is insufficient. The need and length of time to wear it is again set by the surgeon.

The recommendations of breast massages after the surgery vary, depending on the clinic and the type of implant. Some surgeons don’t recommend them at all. On the contrary long lasting pressure massages of the scars are recommended. It is recommended to wash the breasts only after the wound is healed.

Stay relaxed and quiet during the first week following surgery. Have someone help you with the house and kids for the first few days.

You can resume routine activities and lighter house work in 10-14 days. It also depends on the feeling of pain. Avoid lifting your arms over a horizontal line for 6 weeks.

Heavier work, lifting heavy loads, exercising, weightlifting and other sport activities are recommended gradually after two months following the surgery and while wearing the elastic bra. Intimate intercourse should be done very carefully within the first month after the surgery.

It is possible to visit a solarium or sun tan 14 days after the surgery, it is better though not to rush these activities too much. The scars must be covered with plaster or treated with a high SPF sunscreen for a minimum half a year following the procedure.

You should be able to return to work within 10-14 days, depending on the level of activity required for your job.

The result of the augmentation is considered permanent after three months.

If the breast skin is dry after the surgery, you can apply hydrating creme several times a day. Be careful not to tighten the skin while doing any specific movements and avoid contact with the stitched area.

You should see your surgeon immediately if your breast shape changes, the consistency changes (your breast becomes hard) or any inflammation appears. A visit to your surgeon is also recommended after any severe trauma to your breasts (car accident, fall etc.) Regular check-ups are done after one month, after three months and after one year. A check-up after 10 years also includes an ultrasound examination. The check-up system depends on each clinic. Some clinics have no check-ups at all.

Always be sure to follow your doctor´s instructions.

The implant covers approximately 20% of the mammary gland tissue during a mammogram. That’s why it is a good idea to consider another examination technique such as a sonogram (ultrasound) or magnetic resonance.

Patients that have undergone breast augmentation with implant placement must not undergo diathermy (medical organ heating through high frequency electric current.) The implant could become extremely hot and could cause inner burns and eventually the rupture of the implant.

General complications

Each surgical procedure has its possible complications and we have to consider them, although they appear in a low percentage of cases. General anesthesia has certain risks, which will be explained to you by your anesthesiologist before the planned procedure.

There are complications concerning the healing and possible infection of the wound around the area of the implant. There have been documented cases when the implant had to be removed because of infection.

Another surgical complication might be bleeding. That’s why a laboratory examination of blood clotting before the surgery is essential. Also staying in a calm environment after the procedure is important. Another problem can be scar healing.

A serious complication that can occur in any surgery in which the patient is under general anesthesia is a so-called pulmonary embolism – blocking of the pulmonary artery with a blood clot. For prevention, doctors use elastic bandages on the legs and movement soon after the surgery, the best is the first day. Hormonal birth control raises the risk of thrombosis, so it is possible to stop it or take medication against blood coagulation – low molecular heparin (e.g.Fraxiparin, Clexan, Fragmin.)

Some patients are more likely to receive so-called keloid or hypertrophic scars. Sometimes a correction may be necessary, which is relatively difficult in these types of scars.

Breast augmentation is performed with the arms stretched. Patients can sometimes feel pain shooting into the forearm and hands after the surgery. It is caused by the tension of nerves running from the armpit to the arms. These problems are temporary and fade away after few days or weeks.

Complications concerning the implant placement

Capsular contracture

It is the most often described and feared complication of breast augmentation. A fibrous cover – capsule is always formed around the implant. The tissue reacts naturally to the foreign element of the body. The capsules form in all patients and they can be thin or thick. Its creation is individual. In 5% of cases the capsule can start to shrink – this is capsular contracture around the implant. It is accompanied by pain and a firmness to hardening of the breast. This phenomenon can occur in one breast or both breasts. There are ways to avoid the forming of a capsule or at least minimize its creation. It is for example important to ensure a sufficient size of the cavity for implant placement. Also implants with a textured surface reduce the risk of capsular contracture. The shrinking capsule often has to be treated surgically. There have been documented repeated cases of capsular contractures around the implants and sometimes the rigidness can repeat so that the only possibility is the removal of the implant .

Prolapse (expulsion) of the implant

The skin is in permanent tension in the area of the wound. The size of the implant can also cause a progressive thinning to breakage of the skin and therefore the prolapse of the implant. This complication is more common in patients whose skin has been damaged in any way or scarred for example by irradiation from tumor disease.

Serom

This is the creation of liquid around the implant immediately after the surgery or later. It is manifested by pain and breast enlargement. The reason is most often physical strain after the surgical procedure, excessive sport activity or injury.

Blood coagulation around the implant – hematoma

A collection of blood around the implant is mainly caused by disobeying the relazation orders after the surgery or defective blood coagulation.

Burst and penetration of the implant

The approximate durability of an implant set by the producer is around 10-15 years. The implant slowly wears out and its surface thins, which can cause it to burst. The breast can change its shape and will hurt. In such case a change of the implant is necessary. A breast rupture can also be caused by injury, accident or extreme sport activity. Microscopic particles of silicone can penetrate through the  gel filled implant’s external cover. These particles have been found around the implant and even in other parts of body. No harmfulness has been proved.

Shrinkage of the implant

The shrinkage of the implant cover is manifested by small folds that can be touched under the skin. It can be painful and big folds can irritate the surrounding tissue. It is a problem for skinny patients with a thin skin layer, very small mammary gland and in cases of implant placement under the gland.

Sensitiveness of nipples

The change of sensitiveness of nipples, either increased or decreased is often described by women after the surgery. In most cases it gets back to normal in several months to one year. The change can be sometimes permanent.

Breasts asymmetry

Even breasts enlarged with an implant can droop or sag after some time. Also asymmetries may occur, when one side droops more than the other. It can be caused by disobeying instructions after the surgery but also for other reasons. The implant can change its position through the movement of breast muscle right after the surgery. A higher risk of such a shift is threatened by teardrop implants.

Calcification

Small particles of calcium may appear around the implant. They can be confused with a beginning stage of breast cancer.

Tiny thrombotic vessels

Tiny vessels in the armpits or under the abdominal wall blocked by thrombus may appear after the surgery. They disappear naturally within several months.

Can silicone implants be harmful for body?

There have been made many studies concerning the harmfulness of breasts implants. All the substances that form the implant have been gradually studied and examined. This includes silicone, polyurethane, which is part of the cover of some implants, and platinum, which is used by polymerization of silicone gel. None of these substances showed explicit carcinogenic effect, i.e. ithey don’t cause tumor malignancy. Further studies have been done for any relation between implants and rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, again none have been proved. Elementary silicone occurs normally in parts of the blood, breast milk, connective tissue and most organs. Its content in the body depends on a person’s diet, geographic conditions, quality of drinking water or beer consumption. Also mothers that breast feed with silicone implants do not present any risk to their babies. Silicon is part of nursing bottles, dummies, spoons and other medical products.

How long will the effects of breast augmentation last?

The final breast augmentation is permanent, if there is no change in weight and proportion of breasts (see the above mentioned pregnancy.) Regarding the change of quality of the implant after 10 to 15 yearsor the increased possibility of an implant rupture (burst), it is necessary to consider the possibility of implant replacement. Breast augmentation is a personal, serious decision, and a permanent one. If you have planned carefully, worked with your doctor and followed his instructions, then your surgery should be a successful one!

The future of implants

At Illinois University in Chicago stem cells isolated from bone marrow were stimulated to grow along the supportive skeleton, which is made out of biologically tolerant material. Due to this form the cells have reproduced into previously selected shapes. Such cultivated forms from fat tissue has already been tested on mice. It is assumed that these implants grown from stem cells will be a safe alternative to silicone implants.

Breast enlargement by filling it wiht a person’s own fat or by transplantation of their own muscle has already been performed at some clinics worldwide. There haven’t so far been any experiences with such a technique in the Czech Republic.