For patients in South Africa

Breast lift with implants in Turkey from South Africa

A breast lift with implants, also called augmentation mastopexy, combines two operations: a lift to raise breasts that have dropped, and implants to restore fullness. This page explains when it makes sense and how to plan the trip from South Africa.

Why a lift alone may not be enough

A breast lift removes excess skin and moves the breast tissue and nipple higher, but it does not add much volume. Adding implants can help when there is:

• loss of fullness in the upper part of the breast
• a deflated look after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
• naturally small breasts that have also dropped
• a wish for both a lift and a size increase

If you only want more volume and the nipple sits in a good position, breast augmentation alone may be enough. The surgeon decides from your photographs and examination.

Who it may suit

• you have both drooping and volume loss
• your weight is stable, and you are in good general health
• you do not smoke or are willing to stop
• you have realistic expectations

Surgery may be postponed if you plan a pregnancy, are breastfeeding, have an uncontrolled medical condition or your weight is still changing. Suitability is confirmed at the examination in İzmir.

Implants and technique

Silicone gel implants feel soft and natural; saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and allow volume adjustment during surgery. Round implants add upper fullness, while anatomical (teardrop) implants give a more sloping shape.

• Periareolar incision around the areola for mild drooping
• Vertical (lollipop) incision for moderate drooping
• Anchor (inverted T) incision for significant drooping

Implants go under the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle, depending on tissue thickness; skin is removed and the nipple repositioned. Surgery is under general anaesthesia, takes two to three hours and is followed by one to two nights in hospital.

Recovery

• First one to two weeks: swelling, bruising and tightness are common; keep arm movement limited and avoid lifting
• Weeks 3–6: light daily activity returns, you keep wearing a supportive bra, and healing is checked
• After 6–8 weeks: most normal activities resume while the shape continues to settle

Scars are permanent but fade, maturing over 12 to 18 months. Results last a long time but not forever: ageing, weight change, pregnancy and implant lifespan all play a part.

Risks

Risks include infection, bleeding, reaction to anaesthesia, implant-related problems, changes in nipple or breast sensation, asymmetry, capsular contracture and the possible need for revision surgery later.

Planning the trip from South Africa

Direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Istanbul take around ten hours, followed by a short domestic flight to İzmir. South African passport holders need an e-Visa before travelling; the e-Visa guide explains how to apply. Our breast surgery guide for South African patients notes that most breast patients are cleared to fly after five to seven days, but the surgeon decides in your case.

• Book a changeable return ticket; the surgeon decides when you can fly
• Wear your surgical bra on the flight and let others lift your luggage
• Choose an aisle seat, walk regularly and drink water
• Take home the implant brand, size and placement, and your operation notes; any doctor who treats you later will need them

Medical schemes generally do not cover planned treatment abroad, and travel insurance usually excludes it; check both in writing before booking. Pricing is transparent and given in writing after review; the cost depends mainly on the technique, anything combined and the length of stay.

Follow-up at home

Follow-up continues by photograph, message and video call; İzmir is one hour ahead of South Africa. Keep your implant records somewhere safe. Under our treatment guarantee, complications and clinically necessary revisions within one year are treated in İzmir at no charge for that treatment; flights and accommodation are your own cost. See also our clinic facts and complaints process.

Full procedure details are on the breast lift with implants page. If you already have implants and want them changed, see implant replacement.

What we will not do

We will not confirm a plan before a surgeon has examined you, promise a cup size, combine a lift and implants if staging them is safer, or operate if your health makes it unsafe.

Frequently asked questions

Can a breast lift and implants be done at the same time?

Yes, for suitable patients they are commonly done together. Whether it is safe in your case, or better to do them in stages, is the surgeon’s decision.

How long will I be in hospital?

Usually one to two nights, with pain relief, monitoring and a supportive surgical bra.

How long do breast implants last?

Implants can last many years but are not lifetime devices, and they may need checking or replacing in future.

Will I still be able to breastfeed?

Many patients can, but this cannot be guaranteed.

What should I take home to South Africa?

Take your implant details, including brand, size and placement, and your operation notes. Any doctor who treats you later will need them.

Start with a free online consultation. Planning the trip? Read the guide for South African patients and the e-Visa guide.