All 5 Clinics that provide Breast Implants in Croatia

In this procedure breast size is enhanced by the use of implants (usually gel or silicone based). Implants can be used to return the breast to normal size during reconstructive surgery.

Augmentation can also be used to correct an imbalance in size between breasts.

Length

The procedure usually takes between one and two hours.

Procedure

Augmentation is carried out under a general anaesthetic. Various techniques are used to reduce visible scaring from the procedure: Implants may be introduced under the armpit or through the areola; another common technique is to make an incision under the breast allowing the breast itself to hide any scaring. Yet another technique allows the surgeon to use an endoscopic procedure, with the implant brought in through the navel area.

Recovery

Commonly, patients can return to normal activity within a week, with strenuous activity possible within four weeks. Temporary bruising and swelling are part of the recovery process and vary from patient to patient, all signs will usually be gone within six months. Scarring will result from any incision but will fade over time. Recovery is faster in healthy fit individuals who refrain from smoking.

Risks

Implants are liable to deflation, which will require the operation to be repeated. The procedure may result in a change of sensitivity of the skin and nipples. Capsular contraction, which is the formation of scar tissue around the implant, results in a hardening of the breast and can cause infection or bleeding.

A guide to plastic surgery regulations in Croatia

The Ministry of Health holds overall responsiblitiy for the management of public health within Croatia.

In 1995 the Croatian Medical Chamber was established. This is the independant overseer of the profession and membership is mandatory for all Croatian doctors.

Established in 1874, the Croation Medical Association represents the professional interests of doctors in Croatia. Membership is voluntary, though membership is required for all specialists in plastic surgery.

The Croatian Society for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery is the official society for plastic surgeons in Croatia. The society publishes a list of their members online.

Education

The basic medical degree takes 6 years. Plastic surgery is a recognized specialty and the training programme has been harmonized with EU requirements in anticipation of future membership. The registrar training is a 60 month (10 semester) programme. Successful completion earns the title "plastične kirurgije".

Complaints

A three tiered complaints system is available. The most direct course is to contact the Croatian Medical Chamber. The Chamber inforces the ethical code and can disipline physician in violation of the code, impose fines and remove a physician from the register.

Civil action may be persued in the courts. Complaints may also be lodged with the Ministry of Health. Physicians in private practice have full liablity and malpractice cover is available, though rarely taken.

Storage and Access to Medical Records

Croatia has a passed "The Act on Personal Data Protection", which created the Personal Data Protection Agency. This legislation is designed to bring Croatia in compliance with EU regulations on data protection in advance of EU membership.

The Croatian Medical Chamber also inforces its ethical code which requires doctors to maintain and protect the medical records of their patients.

Resources

Croatian Medical Chamber
Šubićeva ul.9, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
tel: +385 1 4500 830
email: nikolina.budic@hlk.hr
website: http://www.hlk.hr (Croatian language only)

Croatian Medical Association
Šubićeva ul.9, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
tel: +385 1 4693 300
website: http://hlz.mef.hr/index.html

Croatian Society for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Website: http://www.kbd.hr/cspras
Member list: http://www.kbd.hr/cspras/Members%20list.htm

The biggest choice of breast implants clinics in Croatia with Prices, Patient Reviews, Maps. Everything you need to find the best breast implants for you in Croatia.