Breast implants are cohesive gel implants and are placed behind the breast muscle. The operation lasts one to two hours and is performed with general anaesthesia. With this operation, the size of the breast can be increased by one or more cup sizes. The incisions are made in less visible areas of the to minimize scar visibility (in the armpit, in the crease under the breast or around the areola). Dr. Ioannidis prefers the incision under the chest as it is less visible there. the most common option is the placement of the implant behind the breast muscle, as the possibility of capsular contracture is minimized. Also, it doesn’t interfere with the mammogram examination. Postoperative pain is usually less than most patients expect and is often described as similar to pain after intense chest work out. After the implants are placed behind the nipples, the incisions are stitched and taped. Most patients feel tired and tense in the operated area, however the pain usually subsides in one to two days, and they can usually return to work within a week. The pain, swelling and tenderness subside within a few weeks. The scars begin to improve within a few months and continue to fade over time.
