NP Aesthetics
Breast surgery in Zurich
Breast surgery covers very different starting points: lacking or excessive volume, changed shape and position, asymmetries, changes after pregnancy or weight loss, and questions about existing implants. Which procedure is appropriate follows from the findings and your objectives — not from the procedure itself.
What brings patients to a consultation?
Most consultations begin not with a procedure but with an observation: my breasts have changed after pregnancy and breastfeeding; I would like more volume; I am unsure whether I need a lift or an implant; I already have implants and would like a change; my breasts differ in size or shape; my breasts are a physical burden.
An overview of the procedures
The following procedures cover most of breast surgery. They are not mutually exclusive and are frequently combined.
Breast augmentation
Building volume, usually with an implant. Size, profile, position and approach are planned based on breast width, skin envelope and tissue thickness.
Breast lift
Elevation of the gland and nipple where tissue has descended. Volume is not added but repositioned. The course of the scars depends on the extent of the lift.
Breast reduction
Reduction of glandular and fatty tissue with a simultaneous lift. Besides shape, a physical burden is often the main concern here.
Implant replacement
Exchange of existing implants, for example with changed shape, capsular changes, symptoms or a desired change in size. Additional measures to the tissue are often required.
Implant removal
Removal without replacement. The result depends on tissue quality, the previous implant size and the duration they were worn; a simultaneous lift is possible but not always necessary.
Breast surgery after pregnancy
After pregnancy and breastfeeding, volume and the skin envelope often change together. The distinction between lift, implant and a combination is particularly relevant here.
Asymmetry
Differences between the sides in size, shape or nipple position are common. The aim is an approximation, not complete equality — this cannot be reliably achieved surgically.
How the appropriate procedure is determined
The starting point is the question of whether volume is lacking, tissue has descended, or both. From this follows the direction: add, reposition, reduce or remove.
Factors assessed include breast width and chest shape, skin quality and elasticity, glandular volume, the position of the nipple in relation to the inframammary fold, and differences between the sides. Previous findings and earlier operations are taken into account.
A sound recommendation only arises after a clinical examination. An assessment based on photos alone can provide indications but does not replace it.
Consultation and examination
The initial consultation covers your concerns and medical history, a clinical examination, a discussion of possible procedures with alternatives and limitations, and a written summary. A second consultation before a decision is usual.
The medical consultation for surgical procedures costs CHF 250. If you subsequently book an operation with us, the consultation fee is credited in full against the price of the operation.
Recovery at a glance
The course differs depending on the procedure. What they have in common is that the first few days are marked by swelling and a feeling of tightness, everyday life is usually possible again within one to two weeks, and physical exertion is increased step by step.
The final shape only becomes apparent after several months, once swelling and tissue tension have subsided.
Risks and limitations
Every procedure involves risks — including postoperative bleeding, infection, wound healing and scar problems, changes in sensation, and results that differ from expectations and may lead to further surgery. With implants, implant-specific topics such as capsular changes are added.
Limitations arise from the anatomy: skin quality, tissue thickness and chest shape determine what can be achieved. Complete symmetry cannot be planned.
Individual information on risks is provided in the personal consultation.
Questions worth asking before surgery
Breast lift or implant — how do I know what I need?
The decisive question is whether volume is lacking or tissue has descended. The position of the nipple, skin quality and glandular volume determine whether a lift, an implant or a combination is sensible. Photos alone are not sufficient for this.
How long is recovery after breast surgery?
Most patients are back in everyday life after one to two weeks; sport and greater exertion follow considerably later. The exact course depends on the procedure, the implant position and the physical demands of your work.
Do implants have to be replaced after ten years?
There is no fixed expiry date. However, implants are not lifetime products: changes can occur over the years that make a check-up or a replacement advisable. Regular follow-up appointments are therefore part of this.
What happens if implants are removed?
Shape and volume change depending on tissue quality, implant size and the duration they were worn. In some cases a simultaneous lift is sensible; in others a wait-and-see approach is possible.
Treating physicians
- Dr. med. Michael W. Payne
Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
- Dr. med. Dr. Phil. Annemarie Nijboer
Specialist in Surgery
Procedures, decision guides and articles
- Breast augmentation
- Breast augmentation with Preservé®
- Breast lift
- Breast reduction
- Implant replacement
- Implant removal
- Breast lift or implant — decision guide
- Implant replacement or removal — decision guide
- The breast after pregnancy and breastfeeding — decision guide
- Breast asymmetry — decision guide
- Recovery after breast augmentation: a realistic timeline
A good decision begins with a conversation.
The initial consultation is about clarification, not selling. It does not necessarily end with a surgery date — often it brings the realisation that a different approach, or no procedure at all, is the right choice.
The consultation process
- 01
Discussion
We listen to your concerns, medical history, expectations and what you would like to change about your appearance.
- 02
Examination
A careful clinical examination and assessment of your underlying anatomy.
- 03
Options
Possible procedures, alternatives, limitations and risks — explained clearly and without time pressure.
- 04
Time to reflect
You decide in your own time. Any outstanding questions can be addressed in a further consultation.
Request a consultation
Leave your contact details. Our practice team will call you back during practice hours to arrange a consultation at Klinik Selnau.