Why UK Patients Choose Turkey for Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedure globally, and Turkey is one of Europe's leading destinations for UK patients seeking it abroad. The main factors:
Cost: UK private clinics charge £5,000–£8,500 for breast augmentation including implants, anaesthesia and hospital stay. In Turkey, the same procedure with comparable-quality implants costs £2,200–£4,000 — typically including 1–2 nights hospital stay, anaesthesia, implants, airport transfers, and compression bra.
Surgeon experience: Istanbul and Ankara's leading plastic surgeons perform significantly higher volumes of breast augmentation than typical UK surgeons, due to both domestic demand and the large volume of international patients.
Technology and implants: European and American implant brands — Mentor, Motiva, Polytech, Sientra — are widely used in Turkey. You are not receiving inferior products.
Implant Types
Silicone gel implants are the most common choice. Modern silicone implants use cohesive gel (often called "gummy bear") that holds its shape even if the outer shell is compromised. They feel natural and have excellent long-term safety data.
Round vs anatomical (teardrop) implants:
Smooth vs textured: Smooth implants have lower capsular contracture rates in some studies. Textured implants adhere to surrounding tissue and are required for anatomical implants.
Implant placement:
Sizing
Implant size is measured in cubic centimetres (cc), not cup sizes. Cup size varies by bra brand and your body frame, so it is not a reliable way to specify an outcome.
Most surgeons use 3D imaging (Vectra or similar) to simulate results before surgery. Implant sizers can also be placed in a bra to give you a visual guide. A range of 200–350cc is common for moderate augmentation; 350–500cc for more significant volume increases.
Be guided by your anatomy, not just a number. A 300cc implant will look very different on a small-framed patient than on a larger frame.
Incision Locations
| Incision | Scar Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Inframammary (IMF) | Crease under the breast | Most common, easiest surgeon access, well-hidden |
| Periareolar | Around the nipple | Hidden in colour change, some sensation risk |
| Transaxillary | In the armpit | No breast scar, more challenging technically |
The inframammary incision is most commonly recommended and produces the most consistent outcomes.
The Procedure
Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia. Surgery takes 60–90 minutes. You will spend 1–2 nights in hospital. After discharge, you should plan to stay in Turkey for 5–7 days before flying home.
Immediately post-surgery: Surgical bra is worn from day one. Drains are rarely used with modern techniques. Pain is managed with oral medication. Most patients describe pressure and tightness rather than sharp pain.
Recovery Timeline
| Period | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Significant tightness, limited arm movement, some pain |
| Days 3–7 | Pain reducing, compression bra worn at all times |
| Week 2 | Most patients comfortable at rest, light tasks manageable |
| Weeks 3–4 | Return to office work, avoid raising arms above head |
| Month 1 | Compression bra still recommended, no exercise |
| Months 2–3 | Return to most exercise (avoid chest exercises initially) |
| Months 3–6 | Implants settle, swelling resolves, final position established |
Implant drop and fluff: New implants sit high on the chest immediately after surgery and gradually settle (drop) over 3–6 months. The final position and softness (fluff) develop over this time. Do not judge early results.
Flying After Surgery
Most surgeons recommend a minimum of 5–7 days before flying. DVT risk after any surgery is elevated. Wear compression stockings, walk regularly on the flight, and stay hydrated. For flights over 4 hours, some surgeons recommend waiting 10 days.
Costs: Turkey vs UK
| United Kingdom | Turkey | |
|---|---|---|
| Breast augmentation (standard) | £5,000–£8,500 | £2,200–£4,000 |
| Breast augmentation + uplift (mastopexy) | £7,500–£12,000 | £3,500–£5,500 |
| Implant exchange / revision | £4,000–£7,000 | £2,000–£3,500 |
| Motiva implants (premium) | £6,000–£9,500 | £2,800–£4,500 |
Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
Safety Considerations
Ensure your procedure is performed in a fully accredited surgical hospital, by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Turkish Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (Plastik Cerrahi) certification is the relevant qualification.
Breast implants are long-lasting but not considered lifetime devices. Current guidance (UK MHRA and US FDA) recommends monitoring with MRI every 2–3 years for silicone implants, and considering replacement at 10–15 years or sooner if any concerns arise. Discuss long-term surveillance with your surgeon.
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