Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries worldwide. Many women long for a firm, shapely and larger breast. Breast augmentation with implants can make this wish come true.
Nevertheless, many women shy away from surgery because of the visible external scars. Endoscopic, “scar-free” breast augmentation through the armpit is a very elegant method with barely visible scars.
What is endoscopic breast augmentation?
Endoscopic breast augmentation, or the “keyhole technique”, is a technically very complex method and is performed through the armpit.
Special instruments are inserted through a small incision of about three centimetres in the armpit, along with a small camera that monitors the procedure. This gives the surgeon an exact view of the surgical field. This enables very precise placement of the implant either behind or in front of the muscle.
What are the risks of surgery?
The procedure is precisely monitored with the mini camera and offers the highest level of safety. The risk of wound healing disorders, reduced sensation, haematoma or tissue bleeding is very low with endoscopic surgery. This also significantly reduces pain after the operation. Very rarely does it have to be changed to an incision in the underbust fold during the operation if the conditions are unclear.
This approximately 3 to 4 cm long incision in the armpit is suitable for so-called “scar-free” breast augmentation.
The procedure is performed endoscopically, i.e. with the camera. This technique allows for a very elegant result even with larger breast implants. As a rule, the breast implant is inserted under the muscle with this approach.
The approach via the armpit is a sophisticated method. The approach is suitable for smaller implants without a breast lift. With the axillary incision, the entire breast remains unblemished.
Who is suitable for "scar-free" breast augmentation?
Basically, all patients who have no or only slightly sagging breasts are suitable for this surgical technique.
Who is not suitable for "scar-free" breast augmentation?
Patients with a clearly sagging breast need an additional external breast lift and are less suitable for this surgical technique. Endoscopic breast augmentation is also unsuitable for patients with so-called “tubular” breasts.
In addition, this surgical technique is less suitable for patients who need a so-called “inner bra” to stabilise the underbust fold or patients who have had previous breast surgery.
What do I need to consider before endoscopic breast augmentation?
Patient and surgeon clarify in advance exactly which implant is desired and where the emphasis of the shape should be. Try to reduce smoking and high-fat food three weeks before the operation (vasoconstriction, lack of blood circulation).
Three days before the operation you should shave the hair in the armpit. We will give you a disinfecting wash lotion to use in the shower the night before the operation. I also recommend probiotics or omega-3 fatty acid 3 weeks before and after the operation to support wound healing and reduce swelling.
Alternatively, bromelain can also promote the healing process and should be taken 7 days before and after the operation.
What do I need to bear in mind after endoscopic breast augmentation?
Patients are given a special support bra and a breast belt immediately after the operation, and these have to be worn for about six weeks.
You can start showering 5 days after the operation. The suture material dissolves itself and does not need to be removed.
The recovery period is about one week, after which participation in social life or everyday work is possible again. After two weeks you can do light physical activity without moving your arms, endurance sports are allowed after 4 weeks.
Smoking and fatty foods must be avoided for 3 weeks after the operation. For 4 weeks you should lie on your back, side lying is allowed. In the case of round implants, the healing and swelling phase is completed after 6 weeks and there are no longer any restrictions on arm movement. In the case of drop-shaped implants, the resting phase for the upper arms is 3 months.
How is the operation performed?
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. To be on the safe side, patients stay in hospital for at least one night after the operation for monitoring.
What is the scar treatment like?
Keep the scar area as warm as possible, cold and unpleasant weather can cause “scar pain”. As soon as the wound healing is complete after approx. 2 weeks, you can start with the scar treatment. Apply a greasy ointment to your scar for 3-5 minutes twice a day for several months (up to a year) (this prevents hardening and hypersensitivity).
Avoid direct sun or solarium for about 6-12 months after the operation. Protect your scar with a high sun protection factor (sun protection factor 50) for up to one year. Do not necessarily cover your scar with a bandage or plaster, stimuli to an appropriate extent are important for the healing process.
What are the costs for endoscopic breast augmentation?
The procedure is mainly aesthetic and is very rarely covered by health insurance. The costs depend on the type of procedure and are adjusted individually. The costs for endoscopic breast augmentation start at CHF 12,000 and are somewhat higher than for the less complex surgical technique using the underbust incision.
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