Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation/Enlargement

Breast enlargement is one of the most popular and successful cosmetic surgery procedures which use implants to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. Breast augmentation is the operation where an implant is used to increase the size and/ or improve the shape of the breasts.

The Procedure

An incision is made under the breast in the natural crease line. The incision is about 4 cm in length and the scar is hidden within the natural fold of the breast. This incision enables access to the space where the implant will be placed making it easy to accurately create the size and shape of the pocket for the implant.

There are several pockets where the implant may be placed;

Directly under the breast tissue.
Behind the breast tissue but in front of the muscle.
The dual plane position (partly under the muscle and partly under the breast or fascia).

What are the benefits?

Breast enlargement is performed to increase the size of the breast in a woman who feels that her breasts are too small or to restore the size and shape of the breast following pregnancy and breast feeding. Breast enlargement can help boost a women’s confidence resulting in a very positive impact on their life.

How long does the operation take?

The operation takes approximately 45-60mins and is performed under a general anaesthetic.

How long do I stay in hospital?

You are in hospital overnight as a rule but on occasions this procedure can be undertaken as a Day-case.

What can I expect afterwards?

You will wake from your surgery with a light dressing in place which you will need to keep dry post-operatively. On discharge from the hospital you will be given a post-operative wound check appointment, when your wound will be inspected and cleaned.

Your breasts will be swollen immediately following your surgery and will feel quite high. This is normal and usually settles within 10 – 14 days and it is also quite common for one breast to settle before the other. Any pain or discomfort may be relieved with simple analgesia such as Paracetamol. Your breasts will feel tender to the touch and you may experience changes in nipple and breast sensation, this is usually temporary but in some rare cases sensation is lost entirely.

What are the long term results?

At one time it was thought that breast implants had to be replaced after 10 years. This is no longer the case as the newer polyurethane implants are now given a lifetime guarantee. However, it should be made clear that the younger you are when you have your breast augmentation your body is likely to change as you age and it may be necessary for you to consider having an additional breast enlargement procedure later in life.

What are the risks?

As with all surgical procedures there are always associated risks. Risks that may occur are; implant displacement or rotation, loss of nipple sensation, asymmetry of the breasts and capsular contracture.

Capsular contracture is when the scar tissue, which grows around all implants and which normally you can’t see or feel, squeezes the implant. This compresses the implant causing it to feel firm or hard, often distorting its shape and occasionally causing the implant to rupture. Further surgery is required to correct this complication. Research has shown significantly lower incidence of capsular contraction with polyurethane implants.

The consultation

It is important for you to examine the reasons for undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure as it is unlikely to resolve any life issues you may have. Having surgery for someone else is not the basis from which to make a decision. Cosmetic surgery will certainly boost your self esteem but you do need to be realistic about your expectations. Our aim is to fully understand your concerns and desires before agreeing on a treatment plan which is in your best interest. Before you decide on a course of action, your consultant surgeon will explain your treatment fully including any potential risks and complications. He will take measurements of your breast – width, nipple distance, breast drooping/ ptosis and soft tissue thickness which will all aid in planning your breast augmentation. Your surgeon will also advise you on the most appropriate procedure and implant for you and will also explain all aspects of your post-surgery care.

If you would like to speak to one of our consultant surgeons, Mr Alan Park or Mr Sudip Ghosh, please do not hesitate to telephone or fill out our online form.