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Practical Information
Plastic Surgery
- Increase breast size;
- Correction of asymmetry.
Around 2 hours
General anesthesia
Outpatient care or a 1-day hospital stay, depending on the surgeon’s recommendation.
1 to 3 weeks
What is Breast Augmentation?
Augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation or breast enlargement are the designations for breast surgery that aims to increase the volume of the breast and improve its shape by placing breast implants (silicone prostheses).
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves placing a breast implant under the mammary gland, beneath the pectoral muscle fascia, or partially under the pectoral muscle. The surgeon determines the most suitable placement based on the patient’s anatomy and the existing breast volume.
How is it performed?
Breast augmentation is a surgical technique that consists of implanting a breast prosthesis under the mammary gland, under the pectoral muscle fascia, or partially under the pectoral muscle. The surgeon decides the most appropriate placement site, taking into account the anatomy and the existing breast volume.
For this, a small incision is made in the mammary areola, in the fold beneath the breast, or in the armpit crease.
After the breast implant is placed, drains may or may not need to be applied. At the end of the surgery, a compression bra is put on.
Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia and lasts approximately 2 hours. It can be done on an outpatient basis or with an overnight hospital stay, depending on the Surgeon’s recommendation.
Who is this surgery for?
Most commonly, breast augmentation is performed on people with small breasts who wish to increase their volume for aesthetic reasons.
This type of breast augmentation is also recommended for women with asymmetric breasts or those who have experienced a significant decrease in the size of one or both breasts, due to post-pregnancy changes or significant weight loss (for example).
In addition, breast implants can be the solution for women with sagging breasts or tuberous breasts.
Expected Results
After breast augmentation, the goal is to achieve fuller breasts, always in harmony and balance with the patient’s physical structure. The expected results are therefore as natural as possible.
Generally, the results are noticeable right after the surgery, although at that moment the breasts may still be somewhat swollen. Therefore, it is usually considered that the final and definitive results are only visible 6 to 9 months after the surgical procedure.
Before and After Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation Post-Surgery and Recovery
Generally, 24 to 48 hours after hospital discharge, the patient should return to the clinic for drain removal, after daily monitoring by the Surgeon. Upon the surgeon’s recommendation, the first lymphatic drainage session may also be performed.
In the postoperative period, it is essential to wear a compression bra. The compression bra should be used day and night for a period of 6 to 8 weeks.
Drainage sessions may be performed twice a week.
All scar care will be thoroughly explained by the surgeon.
The period of inactivity varies according to the type of surgery performed (technique used) and the patient’s type of activity. During the first month, no strenuous exercise or heavy lifting should be done. Work activities can usually be resumed about 10 days after surgery, always depending on the type of work performed.
Although implants do not increase the risk of developing any breast pathology, after undergoing breast augmentation, annual check-ups are recommended.
What is the scar like after Breast Augmentation?
Like any surgery, breast augmentation also leaves scars.
The incision may be peri-areolar (around the areola), infra-mammary (breast fold), or axillary (transverse incision in the armpit).
In most cases, breast augmentation scars are discreet and well-positioned, becoming barely visible over time.
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Inframammary: the scar is in the breast fold, usually hidden by the breast itself.
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Peri-areolar: the scar is usually camouflaged in the transition between the areola and the breast skin.
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Axillary: the scar is in the natural crease of the armpit, away from the breast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of anaesthesia is used?
Breast augmentation surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic. The operation can take up to 2 hours.
How long is the hospitalisation?
It can be done on an outpatient basis or with an overnight stay, depending on the surgeon’s recommendation.
Can the weight of breast implants lead to sagging over time?
No, as long as the size of the implants is appropriate for the patient’s physical structure. That’s why it’s very important to take the surgeon’s recommendations into account and choose implants that suit the body.
Is it possible to breastfeed after breast implants have been placed?
Yes. Placing breast implants either above or below the muscle generally does not interfere with the milk ducts (galactophore ducts). Therefore, you will most likely be able to breastfeed.
How long do breast implants last? Are they permanent?
The breast implants used today are of high quality and highly durable. One of their main features is the outer coating, which helps reduce the likelihood of capsular contracture (the formation of hardened tissue around the implant).
However, it is always important to monitor for this and other potential risks.
For this reason, determining the exact lifespan of implants can be difficult. The brand of implants selected by the surgeon typically offers a lifetime guarantee in case of rupture and a 10-year guarantee against capsular contracture.
What are the contraindications?
Breast augmentation is contraindicated in cases such as:
- Reduced blood flow to the breasts
- Immune system disorders, blood clotting issues, or impaired healing
- Cardiovascular or endocrine conditions that increase surgical risk
Additionally, this surgery should not be performed on pregnant women, postpartum women, or nursing mothers.
What are the risks of breast augmentation?
As with any surgery, breast augmentation carries some risks, although they are rare. These include:
- Infection
- Capsular contracture
- Implant rupture
- Haematoma
- Seroma
- Changes in nipple sensitivity
- Unsightly scarring
- Asymmetry
Other potential risks will be explained in detail during preoperative consultations.
Is breast augmentation recommended for sagging breasts?
Yes. Breast augmentation can benefit those with sagging breasts due to breast laxity and volume loss. This procedure helps restore volume and improve breast shape.
What brand of implants are used at Living Clinic?
At Living Clinic, we use silicone implants from the Mentor brand, recognized for their quality and safety.
This brand, selected by the Living Clinic Plastic Surgeon, offers a lifetime warranty in case of rupture and a 10-year warranty in case of capsular contracture.
What types of breast implants exist?
There are two types of breast implants:
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Round
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Anatomical (teardrop-shaped)
You may choose either, depending on your preference.
What factors can influence the cost of breast augmentation at Living Clinic?
As mentioned earlier, although the average cost at Living Clinic for breast implant surgery is €4000, there are some variables that may affect the final price, namely:
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Type of breast implant: Implants can be round or anatomical (teardrop-shaped). The anatomical implant is more expensive due to its manufacturing technology and design, which provides a smoother contour.
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Length of hospitalization: In the vast majority of cases, hospitalization is 1 day, but this may vary depending on medical advice. The average mentioned considers 1 day of hospitalization.
What payment facilities does Living Clinic offer?
At Living Clinic, we provide financing options (interest-free financing for up to 12 months), allowing you to undergo your surgery in a more affordable way, without compromising the quality of the procedure and care.
Why choose Living Clinic for breast augmentation?
At Living Clinic, we have a medical team with many years of experience and expertise in breast surgery, who value safety, professionalism, patient satisfaction, and close care.
A very common concern is achieving natural results that respect the anatomy and body proportions of each patient. That is why we perform a personalized assessment to understand your aesthetic goals and select the most suitable type and size of implant. Our aim is to ensure a harmonious and natural contour, resulting in proportional and balanced breasts.
Recovery is also one of the most important aspects of breast augmentation and often a major concern for patients. At Living Clinic, we are constantly attentive to our patients’ recovery. The techniques we use and the way we perform the surgery are carefully designed to minimize recovery time and ensure the best possible aesthetic outcome. Whenever possible, we favor less invasive approaches and use advanced techniques to reduce the impact of the procedure on the body, aiming for discreet scars and a faster, more comfortable recovery.
Living Clinic stands out for the exceptional postoperative follow-up offered to each patient. The Living Clinic plastic surgeon, Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho, ensures close and individualized monitoring, with regular follow-up consultations tailored to the specific needs of each case, so that you feel safe throughout all stages of the process.
Plastic Surgeon
[Medical License #53318]
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho is a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He completed his degree in Medicine at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto and the Internship in Specific Training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery took place at Hospital de São José (Lisbon) and Hospital de São João (Oporto).
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho performed several internships, namely on Oncology Surgery of the Head and Neck at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology – Oporto and a fellowship of Hand Surgery, organized by the Portuguese Society of Hand Surgery. He also performed international internships in Aesthetic Surgery, Breast Reconstruction and Lymphedema at the Clinic Planas – Barcelona, at the University Hospital of Brussels and at the Villa Sant’Apollonia Clinic – Bergamo, having contacted with references in Plastic Surgery such as Dr. Jaume Masià, Dr. Moustapha Hamdi and Dr. Enrico Robotti.
Currently, he is also a plastic surgeon at the Hospital de São João – Oporto, and a Invited Lecturer at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto.
In the field of cosmetic surgery, he has a special interest in facial cosmetic surgery, breast cosmetic surgery, body contouring surgery and vaginal cosmetic surgery.
What is the Price of Breast Augmentation?
At Living Clinic, the average price of breast augmentation is €4000, which may vary slightly depending on the type of breast implant (round vs. anatomical – teardrop-shaped) and the need for hospitalization.
Even if hospitalization is required (which occurs in the vast majority of cases) and the chosen breast implant is the higher-priced option, the total cost of the surgery usually does not exceed €4500.
This price includes all materials, fees, and services necessary for the surgery, including Mentor brand breast implants, medical fees for the entire surgical team, operating room rental and hospitalization (usually 1 day), as well as postoperative follow-up, including the first lymphatic drainage session.
Financing options: At Living Clinic, we want to ensure that all patients have access to the treatment they desire. That is why we provide financing options (interest-free financing for up to 12 months), allowing you to undergo your surgery in a more affordable way, without compromising the quality of the procedure and care.
Plastic Surgery Testimonials
“Dr. Francisco Martins De Carvalho doesn’t forget the smallest detail. He seeks perfection and finds it. A unique and sublime talent. I woke up with the body of a teenager (I’m 41). Thank you for making me smile.”
“Very attentive doctor, very helpful and friendly receptionist. Welcoming and pleasant environment.”
“I had a gynocomastia surgery about two weeks ago, performed by Dr. Carvalho. The surgery went exactly as he outlined during the consultation. The process was very smooth and painless. Even though it’s only been two weeks, it feels like I never had surgery, and the result is truly flawless. Dr. Carvalho provided very detailed […]
“One of the best surgeons, I’m so grateful for the excellent work he did with me! A perfectionist!! I couldn’t be happier with the results! Thank you, Dr. Francisco Carvalho!”
“Dr. Francisco Carvalho is undoubtedly the best plastic surgeon with a very promising future ahead. His dedication, responsibility, professionalism, concern for patients, sensitivity, and humility are second to none. I highly recommend him. Thank you, Dr. Francisco, and the entire team for everything, but especially Dr. Francisco Carvalho. I recommend this plastic surgeon to anyone […]
LOCATION
Where to have breast augmentation in Porto?
Have your Breast Augmentation at Living Clinic with maximum safety and natural results! We are located at Av. da Boavista 117 6th floor, Room 607, 4050-115 Porto, Portugal.
Schedule a consultation with the plastic surgeon to hear his recommendation for your specific case and clarify all your questions.
