A Decision for a Higher Level of Well-being and Confidence
You are unique, valuable, and beautiful – and you have the power to realize your personal vision of beauty. The decision for a breast augmentation (aka breast enlargement) gives many women a completely new confidence and replaces feelings of insecurity due to a flat décolleté. Our surgeons are experienced specialists in breast surgery. With a breast augmentation, the contours of your body will be harmoniously emphasized, which enhances your feminine radiance.
The breast, a central element of female aesthetics, plays a significant role in the lives of many women. A breast augmentation is one of the most common and – in the hands of experienced surgeons – uncomplicated procedures. More and more women are fulfilling their dream of a feminine silhouette and newfound confidence with breast augmentation.
Have you always longed for a beautifully shaped décolleté?
Our comprehensive consultation is the best basis for any decision-making before your breast augmentation
You can expect a consultation with our experienced surgeons with an eye for aesthetic detail, without any obligations. Don’t wait any longer and schedule an appointment for your consultation now. We will talk about your desires and discuss what you can expect from a breast augmentation in our practice in Zurich.
Dr. Med. Dr. Phil. (NL)
Annemarie Nijboer
Dr. Med.
Michael W. Payne
How does a Breast Augmentation work?
A breast augmentation is one of the most common aesthetic operations, aimed at improving the volume, shape, and symmetry of breasts. Our patients opt for this procedure for various reasons:
- Personal aesthetic goals
- Asymmetry between breasts
- Changes after pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Changes after weight loss
Our experienced surgeons support each woman in her uniqueness and with her very personal needs. In our aesthetic practice in Zurich, we offer our patients comprehensive advice and a variety of options and techniques to achieve a naturally beautiful result with your breast augmentation.
Dive into the world of breast augmentation and learn all about breast implants, surgical methods, aftercare, and much more.
Schedule your consultation now
The Journey to Perfect Breasts: from Consultation to Aftercare
The journey to perfect breasts begins with a personal consultation. Our experienced specialists, Dr. Nijboer and Dr. Payne, take the time to understand your wishes and expectations. We explain all options that best suit your preferences. Anatomical factors such as pectoral muscle, chest shape, breast shape and volume, and the decision between silicone implants or a breast augmentation with fat, all play a central role. If the nipple sits too low, we may recommend an additional breast lift. We attach great importance to ensuring that you are well informed and confident in your decision.
It is important that you take enough time to consider, even if the desire for a breast augmentation has been long-standing. You will receive all relevant information from us, which you can take home for more consideration. And if necessary, we are happy to have a second consultation.
The different surgical procedures
Choosing the right surgical procedure is an important part of every consultation. We offer a variety of operations, including enlargement with implants, with fat transfer, or a combination of both techniques. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Our specialists will advise you individually to find the optimal solution for your needs.
In our experience, this technique combines the advantages of breast implants and fat transfer. The procedure achieves a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing result without major compromises.
- Smaller implants enable (through smaller incisions) precise volume enlargement and shape correction
- The fat transfer (approximately 100 – 150ml per breast) ensures natural softness and authenticity of breast tissue.
- The use of small amounts of fat not only minimizes risks at the donor site it also maximizes the survival of fat cells.
- Another advantage of a hybrid breast augmentation is the possibility to correct asymmetric breasts or chest wall.
- The integration of the body’s own fatty tissue ensures a soft and pleasant feel to touch.
Placement of Breast Implants
Breast implants can be placed either underneath the pectoral muscle or on top of the pectoral muscle underneath the breast glandular tissue. Where the breast implants are placed best depends on the shape of your breasts, the desired implants, your aesthetic goals, and the quality of your breast tissue.
Breast augmentation in Zurich – with silicone implants of the highest quality
Recognizing that every woman is unique, we offer a diverse range of options with implants from Motiva® and PERLE (GC Aesthetics®). From different shapes, profiles and projections, to a variety of sizes, our patients can choose in collaboration with our experienced plastic surgeons. The goal is to select exactly the right implants that harmonize perfectly with your aesthetic goals and individual anatomy. The breast implants from both well-known manufacturers are designed to be easily placed through small incisions.
Your advantage:
- Reduced scars
- Smoother and faster recovery process
Different implant sizes can be used for patients with unevenly sized breasts. We only use breast implants with a smooth surface because they cause fewer foreign body reactions (more on this under ‘Risks and possible complications’). The filling material of all our implants is a cross-linked silicone gel (‘high cohesive gel’), which is dimensionally stable and yet soft.
The Perfect Breast Shape Round. Anatomical. Ergonomix.
Each shape has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should be carefully weighed up to take into account the patient’s individual aesthetic goals and anatomical conditions. Many women want naturally beautiful breasts and have a clear idea of which shape they prefer. In this case, nature can be perfected by shaping the appropriate form with the implant.
Round silicone implants
add volume to the entire breast, including the area above the nipple. They can create a beautifully shaped décolleté. Because the implants have a round base, the shape of the breast would not change if the implants were to rotate (unlike anatomical implants) And therefore no correction would be necessary. Depending on the thickness of the implants (also called ‘profile’ or ‘projection’), the naturalness of round implants may be perceived as lower, especially from a side view.
Teardrop silicone implants
Anatomical implants are teardrop-shaped. They create a more natural contour and breast shape, especially in the lower part of the breast. Teardrop implants are suitable for women who prefer a slightly sloping shape with less volume. There is a risk of visible rotation of the implant, which could require correction surgery.
Ergonomic silicone implants
(Motiva Ergonomix) combine the advantages of both round and anatomical implants. The implants have a round base. For this reason, the implants are allowed to rotate because the shape of the breast would remain the same. It is important to realize that the silicone gel of Ergonomix implants is very soft and flexible.
Therefore, these implants tend to form a more teardrop-shaped breast contour when the body is upright.
Breast Augmentation by Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer for breast augmentation, also known as lipofilling or autologous fat transplantation, is an innovative method for breast augmentation that uses the patient’s own adipose tissue. With autologous fat transplantation, a very natural and harmonious breast augmentation can be achieved.
How does breast augmentation with autologous fat work?
The process of breast augmentation begins with gentle liposuction at selected body sites. Excess fat for liposuction is usually available on the abdomen, thighs, or hips. Typically, about 400 – 500ml of fat is extracted. This fat is then processed and purified to ensure the best possible quality.
During the breast surgery, the processed autologous fat tissue is precisely injected into all areas of the breast. The volume is increased, and an aesthetically pleasing breast shape and size are sculpted. The advantages of breast augmentation with autologous fat lie in the use of the body’s own tissue. In contrast, implants are foreign bodies.
The result of autologous fat augmentation looks maximally natural, feels natural, and does not need to be replaced.
However, it is important to note:
- This technique is not suitable for every body
- Multiple sessions may be required
We have a high level of expertise in autologous fat transplantation
Both of our surgeons are highly experienced in fat transfers.
Some of our patients have been featured in the recently published book ‘Fat transfer in plastic surgery’ by Prof. Di Giuseppe, after their autologous fat treatment.
Costs and Health Insurance Coverage for Breast Augmentation with Your Experts in Zurich
- Cost of breast augmentation with implants:
Depending on the type of implant between CHF 6499 – 7499 - Cost of breast augmentation with autologous fat:
CHF 6499 for the first procedure. Possible additional procedures cost CHF 3999 - Cost of a hybrid breast augmentation:
(combination of smaller implants with autologous fat) CHF 8499 – 9499 (depending on implant shape)
In some cases, supplementary health insurance covers the costs of breast augmentation. This may apply after pregnancy and / or severe weight loss.
In a consultation, we provide our patients with detailed information about the costs and financing options for breast surgery.
Assistance with Difficult Decisions: ARBREA
The Swiss-made ARBREA program offers a safe and informative way to explore all options for aesthetic procedures and treatments, before undergoing surgery or injections. In the case of breast augmentation, the program uses advanced imaging technology to show realistic simulations of your body with different implant types and sizes – until you are confident that you have chosen the right implants. You will receive the simulation images and video to take home so that you can make a confident decision at your own pace.
Breast augmentation and pregnancy
We need to talk about the best timing for your procedure.
- After pregnancy, we recommend waiting 3 months before undergoing breast surgery. This applies to breast augmentation, breast reduction or breast lift. The reason for this is that the breast tissue has to recover first, even if you are not breastfeeding.
- After weaning, we recommend a waiting period of 3 – 6 months. Here too, the focus is on the recovery of the breast tissue, but also to avoid an increased risk of infection.
- Are you planning to become pregnant? If you are considering pregnancy in the near future, it is recommended that you wait until you are ready to have children before having a breast augmentation or breast lift. Even if there is nothing medically wrong with breast surgery, it makes sense to wait with the treatment to achieve a beautiful result.
Can I breastfeed after a breast augmentation?
The ability to breastfeed is usually retained, although this cannot be guaranteed.
Your breast augmentation procedure – maximum precision and expertise at our surgical center near Zurich
Breast augmentation is performed at the Wetzikon surgical center near Zurich. The operation takes about 1 hour and is usually performed under general anesthesia. You are in the best hands with our very friendly and experienced anesthetists. If required, you can find more information at www.hypnocare.ch.
The operation
Our surgeons perform breast augmentation and breast reduction operations with as little tissue damage as possible. The aim is to minimize blood loss and generally reduce bruising, swelling (therefore faster recovery!) and the risk of complications.
- If the implant is positioned submuscularly – i.e. under the pectoral muscle – the muscle is lifted and a prosthesis pocket is formed underneath.
- If the implant is positioned above the pectoral muscle, a pocket is formed between the muscle and breast tissue.
- Finally, the breast implants are inserted in the selected size and placed precisely.
- To ensure a sterile implant, we use the ‘no-touch method’.
Plastic surgery specifies various incisions:
- We prefer a small, 3-4 cm incision in the underbust crease for breast surgery. This approach provides the best overview and reduces the risk of bleeding or infection. The scar is particularly inconspicuous.
- An incision at the edge of the areola can be a good alternative. However, this method can only be used for small implants.
- We avoid the incision in the armpit due to the higher complication rate.
After insertion of the implants, the symmetry of the breasts is checked, active bleeding is excluded and sutured in 3 layers.
At the end of the operation, a plaster is applied and very rarely (almost never!) drains are used to drain wound fluid, which are then removed after 2-4 days. After breast augmentation, it is necessary to wear a compression support bra, similar to a sports bra, for 4-6 weeks to stabilize the breast and reduce swelling. The first 4-8 weeks after the operation are crucial for the healing process and require careful aftercare.
What to consider after breast augmentation
We know our patients feel most comfortable at home (and heal best there too!) and you are allowed to go home the same day. Most patients can be picked up after only a few hours. You must not actively participate in traffic on the day of surgery. And once at home, we recommend that the first night you not be alone.
Die ersten 4 – 8 Wochen nach der Operation sind entscheidend für den Heilungsprozess und erfordern eine sorgfältige Nachsorge.
In case of problems in the first few days after the operation
Upon discharge from the clinic, you will receive a telephone number where we can be reached day and night. Even if you only have questions, you are always welcome to call or write to us.
Aftercare and healing process after your breast augmentation
Wearing a compression bra
You must wear a compression bra (similar to a sports bra) continuously for the first 6 weeks ( except when showering and washing the bra), this supports the breasts, reduces swelling and promotes scar healing.
Avoid physical exertion
- Physical exertion should be avoided during the initial period so as not to impair the healing process. This means:
- From day 1, all movements of the arms are permitted as long as they do not cause pain.
- Light physical activities can be resumed approximately 4 – 5 days after the operation.
- Sport and other major physical activities must be avoided for 4 – 6 weeks.
- Depending on your profession, your ability to work will be restricted for 5 – 10 days.
Painkillers if required
Most patients report mild to moderate pain, which can be adequately treated with painkillers. This should improve quickly after 2 – 3 days. When you are discharged from the clinic in Zurich, you will be given painkillers to take home with you for the first 5-7 days.
Sleep in the prone position
We ask our patients to sleep on their backs for the first few weeks if possible. We advise against sleeping on your stomach for the first 6 months. This allows the implant pockets to heal in peace.
Personal hygiene and scar care
You can shower normally the day after the operation (please do not bathe).
The plasters are changed at the follow-up appointments in the practice. The first appointment often takes place after 5 – 7 days.
During this phase, we are happy to recommend Zinzino products for personalized nutritional supplements to our patients. There are studies that show a reduced complication rate and improved wound healing.
After 2 – 3 weeks, a wound dressing with plasters can be dispensed with. Now you can start caring for the scars. For example, we recommend scar care with Bepanthen scar ointment twice a day. The scars will be reddened in the first few weeks. They will fade over the course of a few months. Scar healing and the entire healing process vary from person to person. You should be prepared for the fact that the final result may take up to 6 months. Scarring disorders are rare and can often be improved with conservative treatment (silicone patches, microneedling), meaning that correction is very rarely necessary.
Implant replacement and other options: Long-term care
The needs and wishes of our patients can change over time. An implant change or other procedures, such as breast lifts or breast reductions, are part of our long-term care. Our experienced team will also be at your side after the operation to ensure that you are satisfied with the result.
After how long should breast implants be replaced?
There are no fixed guidelines for the replacement of implants. Modern prostheses can usually be left in place for 10-15 years without any problems. As long as the patient has no complaints, annual check-ups are sufficient. We recommend an annual sonographic check-up of the implants by your gynecologist or at our practice.
What are the risks and possible complications of breast augmentation?
As with any surgical procedure, there are possible risks and complications with breast augmentation. We will provide you with comprehensive information about these and take the time to answer all your questions. Careful planning, our extensive experience and state-of-the-art surgical technologies reduce the risk to a minimum.
Swelling and bruising
The breasts will be swollen for the first few days to 2 – 4 weeks after the operation and rarely there will be visible bruising. These usually do not require any treatment. However, if there is post-operative bleeding, a repeat operation with hemostasis may be necessary.
Infections
Infections of the breast are very rare and manifest themselves with redness, pain, warmth and possibly fever and are treated with antibiotics.
Wound healing disorders
Wound healing disorders after breast surgery are very rare and often affect smokers. Breast healing depends on adequate blood circulation. Patients should therefore refrain from smoking from 2 weeks before the operation until 2 weeks after. If necessary, you can replace the nicotine requirement with nicotine patches or tablets. In the event of a wound healing disorder, the wound may need to be re-stitched.
Bottoming out
If implants are smooth-walled, there is a possibility of ‘bottoming out’. This means that the underbust fold cannot hold the implant and the implant slips down 1 – 2 cm. In such a case, corrective surgery is necessary. The implant must be placed higher again and the fold reinforced with non-dissolving sutures. This is a rare complication that is relatively easy to correct.
Foreign body reactions
The use of implants can lead to foreign body reactions, such as capsular fibrosis or, in the worst case, lymphoma (has never been diagnosed with smooth-walled implants). The symptoms of capsular fibrosis are usually hardening and deformation of the breast combined with pain. The exact causes are unknown but various factors probably play a role. These include infections, bleeding, genetic predispositions and abnormal foreign body reactions. Capsular fibrosis is treated with massage, exercises, anti-inflammatory medication and, in the last resort, surgery.
With the latest smooth-walled implants, there are very few foreign body reactions in the breast. According to several studies, the capsular fibrosis rate for Motiva implants, for example, is less than 1%.
Breast implant disease
Breast Implant Illness (BII) refers to non-specific symptoms reported by some women with breast implants. These include fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain or mental impairment. The exact cause is not clear. Those affected should consult their doctors and consider comprehensive medical advice.
Detailed information prior to breast surgery is crucial in order to minimize possible risks. A gynecological examination may be useful, for example if there are family members with breast cancer.
Have you always longed for a beautifully shaped décolleté?
Our comprehensive consultation is the best basis for any decision-making before your breast augmentation
You can expect a consultation with our experienced surgeons with an eye for aesthetic detail, without any obligations. Don’t wait any longer and schedule an appointment for your consultation now. We will talk about your desires and discuss what you can expect from a breast augmentation in our practice in Zurich.
Dr. Med. Dr. Phil. (NL)
Annemarie Nijboer
Dr. Med.
Michael W. Payne
FAQ about breast augmentation
How does breast augmentation work?
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement, is a commonly performed aesthetic procedure that improves the volume, shape and symmetry of the breasts. Patients opt for this procedure for various reasons, such as personal aesthetic goals, asymmetrical breasts, changes after pregnancy and breastfeeding or after weight loss.
What methods of breast augmentation are available?
At our aesthetics practice in Zurich, we offer various techniques to achieve the desired result. These include
- Breast implants
- Lipofilling (autologous fat)
- Various surgical methods that are individually tailored to the patient’s needs.
How does a breast augmentation consultation work?
Our experienced surgeons will give you comprehensive advice and take your personal wishes into account. During the consultation, we will show you before and after pictures, explain the various options and techniques and discuss aftercare. Make your personal appointment now for a detailed consultation.
Can I breastfeed after a breast augmentation?
In most cases, the ability to breastfeed is retained after breast augmentation. However, this cannot be guaranteed as it depends on individual factors.
What are the most common reasons for breast augmentation?
Patients often opt for breast augmentation for the following reasons:
- Personal aesthetic desires
- Asymmetrical breasts
- Changes after pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Changes after significant weight loss
How long should physical exertion be avoided after breast augmentation?
Physical exertion should be avoided in the first few weeks after the operation so as not to impair the healing process:
- From day 1, arm movements are permitted as long as they do not cause pain.
- Light physical activities can be resumed after 4-5 days.
- Sport and major physical activities should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
- Depending on your profession, your ability to work may be restricted for 5-10 days.
How long is there pain after breast augmentation?
Most patients experience mild to moderate pain, which can be easily treated with painkillers. The pain should subside after 2-3 days. When you are discharged from the clinic, you will be given painkillers for the first 5-7 days.
Can I lie on my stomach after breast augmentation?
It is recommended that you sleep on your back for the first few weeks after the operation. We do not recommend lying on your stomach for the first six months so that the implant pockets can heal undisturbed.
When can I start showering after breast augmentation?
You can shower normally the day after the operation (no bathing). The patches are changed at the follow-up appointments, the first appointment is usually after 5-7 days.
How long does the swelling last after breast augmentation?
After the operation, the breasts will temporarily feel relatively firm, which is due to normal swelling. After a few weeks, the breasts will soften and feel more natural. The foreign body sensation usually diminishes quickly.
When does scar care begin?
After 2-3 weeks, a wound dressing can be dispensed with and you can start caring for the scars. Suitable care is, for example, the use of Bepanthen scar ointment twice a day. Scars take several months to heal before they fade.
How long can numbness last?
Temporary numbness or hypersensitivity in the nipples may occur. The sensitivity of the nipples usually normalizes within a year.
Do silicone breast implants cause breast cancer?
No, silicone implants do not cause breast cancer. Regular check-ups, such as self-examinations and breast examinations by a gynecologist, remain important. Mammograms can also be carried out on women with implants, but additional images are often required.
At what age is breast augmentation performed?
As a rule, breast augmentation is only carried out from the age of 18.
After how long should breast implants be replaced?
There are no fixed guidelines for the replacement of breast implants. Modern implants can usually be left in place for 10-15 years without any problems. As long as there are no complaints, an annual check-up is sufficient.
What are the risks and possible complications of breast augmentation?
As with any surgical procedure, there are possible risks with breast augmentation, including
- Swelling and bruising: These usually subside after 2-4 weeks.
- Infections: Very rare and treatable with antibiotics.
- Wound healing disorders: Rare, often occur in smokers.
- Bottoming out: A rare complication in which the implant sinks.
- Foreign body reactions: Capsular fibrosis or very rare cases of lymphoma.
What is breast implant illness (BII)?
Some women report non-specific symptoms such as fatigue or joint pain that may be related to breast implants. Those affected should seek comprehensive medical advice.