Since 1998 · Zagreb & Daruvar
Breast Augmentation in Croatia
Whether your breasts never had the volume you wished for or you lost it after pregnancy, the decision comes after an examination, an assessment of your physical build, and an honest talk about expectations. Only then do we choose between implants, your own fat tissue, or a combination of the two.
Some women think about breast augmentation for years without being sure which method would suit their build, or how natural the change would look. That is why the first step is not choosing an implant, but an examination at which we assess the chest, the existing tissue, the position of the breasts, and the result you want to achieve.
Is this for me?
What breast augmentation is and which method suits your build
Breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure that increases the volume and improves the shape of the breasts — most often with implants, a transfer of your own fat tissue, or a combination of the two. For some women the goal is to subtly restore fullness lost after pregnancy or weight loss; for others, to gain volume they never naturally had.
At the examination we therefore first establish what suits your build and your goal — size comes only after that. Sometimes the answer is an implant, sometimes your own fat tissue, and sometimes, if the breasts are above all sagging, a lift will help you more than added volume. Which of those three possibilities applies in your case becomes clear only after the examination.
A natural result is not determined by size alone, but by how the volume relates to your build.
The methods
Breast augmentation methods: implants, your own fat tissue, or a combination
None of these methods suits every patient, so we choose based on the findings of the examination and the goal you have described.
Implants (MENTOR™)
Implants allow a more predictable increase in volume and more pronounced shaping of the décolletage. We use exclusively MENTOR™ implants by Johnson & Johnson, with CE and FDA certification and the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. Every patient receives a certificate with the type and serial number of the implant placed. The round or anatomical shape, the size, and the position of the implant are chosen according to the measurements of your chest, the amount of existing tissue, and the look you want.
Your own fat tissue (lipofilling)
Augmentation with your own fat tissue is an option for patients who want a subtler change without implants and have enough fat tissue in the donor area. The fat is harvested by liposuction, processed, and transferred to the breasts. It can give a softer result to the touch, and at the same time the contour of the area the fat was taken from changes. The procedure is followed by check-ups and monitoring of the result; whether a second session is needed is decided on the basis of those findings.
The hybrid method
The hybrid method combines an implant with your own fat tissue. The implant provides volume, while the fat tissue can soften the transition between the implant and the surrounding tissue. This method is often used in slimmer patients and for smaller asymmetries.
How we choose the size and position of the implant
The implant can be placed above the muscle and under the glandular tissue (subglandular), under the pectoralis major muscle (submuscular), or under the muscle fascia (subfascial) — the last technique is the most demanding to perform, but it delivers excellent long-term results.
We choose the size and position of the implant according to the medical indication, the amount of tissue, and the build of your chest. The goal is not the largest possible volume, but a size and position that match your anatomy and expectations.
- Duration
- 1–2 hours
- Anesthesia
- included in the price; the type is agreed with your surgeon
- Recovery
- 7–14 days
- Performed by
- Duško Maletić, MD, MSc
The consultation
What we assess at the consultation
The consultation includes a medical examination and the planning of the procedure. We assess the width of your chest, symmetry, the position of the nipples, skin quality and the amount of existing tissue, and we talk about the size and shape of breasts you would like and about the circumstances that matter for planning the procedure.
To make it easier to judge volume, at the examination you can put on a special bra that holds implants of different sizes. That gives you a rough feel for the volume and weight on your own body, which makes the conversation and joint planning with the surgeon easier.
Why us
Why choose us for breast augmentation
Since 1998
We have been performing breast augmentation for more than 25 years, in an internationally recognized center.
MENTOR™ implants (Johnson & Johnson)
We use exclusively MENTOR™ implants with CE and FDA certification and the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. Every patient receives a certificate with the type and serial number of her implants.
Four operating rooms with purified air
Purified air and the controlled conditions of the operating room are an important part of reducing the risk of infection when placing implants.
A single room and 24-hour care
Your stay and the start of your recovery take place under constant medical supervision, with written instructions for recovery at home.
A family polyclinic
Two generations of the family work at the Polyclinic today, and many patients stay with the same team for years.
Preparation on the day of the procedure
Laboratory tests, an ECG, and the anesthesiologist’s examination can all be done with us on the day of the procedure, without visits to other institutions.
An individualized assessment
We choose the method and size according to the width of your chest, the amount of existing tissue, and the result you want to achieve.
A clear plan and price
Before you decide, we explain what is feasible, what the price includes, and what result you can realistically expect.
Why trust us
When an implant is not the only or the best solution for your goal
Sometimes the result you want is better achieved with a breast lift or another augmentation method.
If the examination shows that the look you want would be better achieved with a breast lift or your own fat tissue, we will explain the reasons and the possibilities of each method. The decision is made once you understand the expected result, the limitations, and the recovery.
The result is not judged only right after surgery. That is why the correct indication, the choice of method, surgical experience, and long-term follow-up matter from the planning stage on.
Possible risks and complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries possible risks and complications. Alongside the risks linked to anesthesia, bleeding, and infection, implants can involve capsular contracture, changes in sensation, implant displacement, visibility of the implant edges, and, in the long term, rupture.
At the consultation we also talk about BIA-ALCL, a rare disease associated mainly with certain textured implants, and about the symptoms described under the name “breast implant illness.” We explain the known risks, the characteristics of the implants we use, and the importance of follow-up after the procedure. Careful implant selection, preoperative preparation, and the conditions the procedure is performed in are part of reducing surgical risks.
Recovery after breast augmentation
Pressure, swelling, and tenderness are most pronounced during the first seven days, so that is when the most rest is needed. Most women return to office work in two to three days. Between days ten and fourteen the swelling subsides and you gradually return to your usual activities. From week three to week six the tissue continues to heal, the implant gradually settles into its planned position, and the compression bra supports that process. After six weeks the breasts gradually become softer, while the final look takes shape over the further course of recovery.
When you can judge the final result
The shape of the breasts in the first weeks is not final. After augmentation with implants, the swelling gradually subsides, the tissue softens, and the implants settle into a more stable position over roughly three to six months. After augmentation with your own fat tissue, the final volume is judged only after part of the transferred fat has been resorbed, most often several months after the procedure.
Augmentation adds volume, but it does not significantly lift a sagging breast. If the main issue is the position of the breast, the examination establishes whether a breast lift or a combined procedure is more appropriate.
Pressure and swelling
first 7 days
Office work
2–3 days
Swelling subsides
days 10–14
Compression bra
weeks 3–6
Initial softening
after 6 weeks
Real results
Before and after breast augmentation
We publish photographs of results only with the patient’s documented consent.
Who we are
Who will be taking care of you
The decision to have breast augmentation should be personal, freely made, and grounded in an understanding of the possibilities, limitations, and risks of the procedure. The procedure is planned and performed by Duško Maletić, MD, MSc, a specialist in surgery since 1984, who founded this family polyclinic in Daruvar in 1998. He pursued further training in aesthetic surgery in Prague, Switzerland, the United States, Italy, and Austria, and has described his experience in six professional books.
Breast augmentation at the Polyclinic is also performed by Mario Bartol, MD, a specialist in surgery and part of the professional team since 2008. In an interview for mojportal.hr he described the approach that guides every patient: “Our goal is always the same: a harmonious volume, a stable position of the implant, and a natural transition in relation to the patient’s build.” The patient decides on the method and the size herself, with a professional recommendation and a trial of the implants at the consultation.
Alongside both surgeons are the nurses who stay with you from preparation through recovery, and the next generation of the family works at the Polyclinic today.
The conversation, the examination, your decision, and your medical records are confidential and protected by medical secrecy.
Meet the whole team
Price
Price and the first step
The price depends on the chosen method and the scope of the procedure. The listed amount includes preoperative preparation, the procedure with anesthesia, certified implants, a compression bra, a single room with 24-hour care, and follow-up examinations. The consultation for the procedure is free of charge and is not billed even if you decide against surgery afterwards. The exact amount is set after the examination and the choice of method. The prices of all procedures are available in the price list.
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Breast augmentation with round MENTOR™ implants
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Breast augmentation with anatomical MENTOR™ implants
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Breast augmentation with your own fat tissue
Anesthesia is included in the price; the type is agreed with your surgeon.
See the full price listPatient reviews
What our patients say
Reviews taken from our Google Business profiles, Zagreb and Daruvar, translated from Croatian.
★★★★★
“My experience with breast augmentation with Dr. Maletić in Daruvar was excellent. I am extremely satisfied with the result. All the nurses are very kind and professional. I absolutely recommend them.”
★★★★★
“Since high school I watched the double chin I inherited from my father become more and more pronounced — and 15 years later, the double chin is gone. A big thank you to Dr. Maletić and the whole team for fulfilling my wish. The procedure was painless, as was the recovery, and the results were visible after only a few days. The whole team was extremely kind and cheerful, and the atmosphere very pleasant. I left the polyclinic satisfied, and when, two days after the swelling went down, I saw that the double chin was gone, my satisfaction knew no bounds. I warmly recommend Polyclinic Maletić.”
★★★★★
“All praise for Polyclinic Maletić in Daruvar! I had a lip augmentation with fillers and I am very satisfied with the result. I would especially like to praise Dr. Mario Bartol, who is extremely kind, professional, and has a wonderful approach to patients, which made me feel comfortable and safe throughout the treatment. All the nurses are also very kind, accommodating, and professional. I warmly recommend them to anyone considering aesthetic treatments!”
★★★★★
“Laser acne treatment is the only treatment that has helped me, and I would not choose any other facial treatment over it. Dr. Ines is one of the kindest people I have ever met and always has useful advice. Kind staff and top-level service — I warmly recommend her to everyone!”
★★★★★
“I had a wart on my face removed by laser. Very professional service with excellent results. The wart was quite large, but after just one treatment it was gone. All recommendations!”
★★★★★
“I recently had a varicose vein procedure. All praise to the whole team.”
★★★★★
“Blepharoplasty, 4D laser, and double chin. Perfect. All recommendations!”
★★★★★
“The best team of physicians, extremely professional and kind. I have been loyal to Polyclinic Maletić for more than 10 years and I am always satisfied with the results. Thank you.”
★★★★★
“I came to Dr. Maletić with a big problem and a lot of stress. I was met with such warm empathy and kindness, and patience in answering all my questions. Thank you, Dr. Maletić, for your advice and sincere support. I know I can always turn to her for advice, and that means a lot to me. The staff of the Zagreb polyclinic are also very accommodating and kind. Thanks to them as well.”
★★★★★
“Dr. Maletić’s practice, both in Daruvar and in Zagreb — and I have had several procedures done — I can only recommend, because I felt very comfortable there and in expert hands!”
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions
Implants or your own fat tissue — which is better for me?
There is no answer that fits everyone. Implants allow a more predictable increase in volume and a fuller décolletage. Your own fat tissue is more suitable for a subtler change, but it requires enough tissue in the donor area and most often more than one session. We choose the method after assessing your build, your existing tissue, and the result you want to achieve.
Will people notice that I have implants?
How discreet the result looks depends on the build of your chest, the amount of existing tissue, and the size, shape, and position of the implant. An implant matched to those measurements is generally less noticeable than one that is too large for the available tissue. If you want a subtle change, that goal is taken into account in the planning.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation?
In most cases the ability to breastfeed is preserved. The position of the implant and the surgical approach are planned to preserve the mammary gland and ducts. If you are planning a pregnancy, it is important to mention it at the examination, because it can affect the planning and timing of the procedure.
What scar remains, and where?
The incision is most often planned in the natural fold under the breast, where the scar is less noticeable when standing. With augmentation using your own fat tissue, the incisions are a few millimeters in size. The appearance and maturing of scars differ from person to person, and as a rule they fade with time. Where needed, scar care or a laser treatment is applied. At the examination we explain where the incision would be placed in your case.
How long does recovery take, and when do I return to work and training?
Pressure, swelling, and tenderness are expected in the first few days. Most women return to office work in two to three days, and to more intense training after roughly two weeks, depending on the course of recovery and with a compression bra worn. The breasts gradually soften, and the final shape develops over several weeks to several months.
How long do implants last — do they have to be replaced after ten years?
The modern implants we use do not have to be routinely replaced after ten years. Replacement is recommended if a complication occurs, and in the event of rupture the manufacturer covers a lifetime replacement of the implant. Changes in body weight, pregnancy, and the passage of time can alter the look of the breasts over the years even though the implant is intact.
Can I have a mammogram or an ultrasound if I have implants?
Yes. Breast ultrasound and mammography are performed in patients with implants too, with an adapted imaging technique. Regular breast checkups are recommended just as they are for women without implants.