Breast augmentation in Funchal, Madeira is one of the most requested plastic surgery procedures on the island. Also called augmentation mammoplasty, it increases breast volume and improves shape with silicone implants or, in selected cases, with your own fat. This guide explains implant types, surgical techniques, recovery, risks and how to prepare for your consultation in Funchal.
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation places a silicone implant behind the breast gland or the chest muscle. In some cases fat grafting is used instead, with fat taken from another area of the body. It is usually considered to:
- Increase breast volume
- Correct breast asymmetry
- Restore volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Improve body proportion and balance
If the breasts are sagging, a breast lift may be combined with implants, known as mastopexy with implants.
Types of breast implants
The implant is chosen at consultation, based on your anatomy, skin and breast tissue quality, and the result you want.
Shape
- Round: adds more volume to the upper part of the breast.
- Anatomical (teardrop): mimics the natural slope of the breast, with more volume at the bottom.
Surface
- Smooth: widely used today, with good results and a low risk of texture-related complications.
- Textured: less likely to rotate, which helps with anatomical implants. Rougher (macrotextured) surfaces have been linked to a rare lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) and some were withdrawn from the market. This should be discussed at consultation.
Profile and size
The profile (low, moderate, high or extra-high) sets how far the implant projects. Size is chosen using measurements of the breast base and, often, implant sizers at the consultation.
Surgical techniques
| Incision | Location | Main advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Inframammary | Fold under the breast | Discreet scar and good access; the most common |
| Periareolar | Lower edge of the areola | Barely visible scar in larger areolas |
The implant can sit subglandular (behind the gland), submuscular (behind the muscle) or dual plane (a combination). The choice depends on tissue thickness and implant type. Surgery is done under general anaesthesia and usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours.
Breast augmentation recovery
Recovery is gradual and varies from person to person. A typical timeline:
- First 3 to 5 days: relative rest and pain control with medication.
- 1 to 2 weeks: back to light activities and, often, desk work.
- 4 to 6 weeks: wear a support bra and avoid strain with your arms.
- 6 to 12 weeks: gradual return to the gym and intense exercise, as advised.
- Around 6 months: the implants settle and the result stabilises.
If you live in Madeira, follow-up visits in Funchal are easy to attend, with no long journeys during recovery.
Risks of breast augmentation
Like any surgery, breast augmentation carries risks, which should be explained and understood before you decide:
- Capsular contracture (hardening around the implant)
- Haematoma, seroma or infection
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Asymmetry or implant malposition
- Implant rupture over the years
- Breast implant-associated lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), rare
- Need for further surgery (revision)
How to choose a plastic surgeon in Madeira
- Check that the surgeon is a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery registered with the Portuguese Medical Association (Ordem dos Médicos).
- Make sure surgery takes place in a licensed hospital or clinic with an anaesthetist and overnight stay available.
- Ask for an assessment consultation with time for your questions, implant options and risks.
- Ask about the follow-up plan after surgery.
Breast augmentation FAQs
Is breast augmentation very painful?
Discomfort is greatest in the first few days and is controlled with medication. Most people describe it mainly as pressure in the chest.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
In most cases, yes. Standard techniques preserve the breast gland and milk ducts.
Do breast implants need to be replaced?
There is no fixed expiry date. What matters is regular check-ups and replacing the implant if a complication occurs.
How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
Usually 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the technique and complexity.
When can I go back to the gym?
Light leg exercise can usually resume within a few weeks. Arm and chest exercises usually wait 6 to 12 weeks, as advised.
Where can I have breast augmentation in Madeira?
In Funchal, with consultation, surgery and follow-up on the island. Consultations are available in English.
Book your consultation in Funchal
Breast augmentation is a personal decision that needs good information and an individual assessment. If you are considering breast augmentation in Funchal, book an assessment consultation to learn which options suit you. Read more about breast augmentation and other breast surgery options.
