Breast Enlargement
A breast enlargement, or otherwise known as breast augmentation surgery, very simply adds volume to the breast, making them larger and rounder with the addition of modern breast implants.
Breast enlargement is still the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure.
The procedure is ideal for:
- Women who are naturally flat-chested
- Patients who want a “curvier” and more feminine shape
- Women who have lost volume in their breasts through breast feeding, weight loss, pregnancy or ageing
- Those who feel that their breasts are out of proportion with the rest of their body
- Women with asymmetrical breasts
The Breast Enlargement Procedure
The Surgeon starts by making a small incision – this is normally just below the breast in the crease, so it will be unnoticeable after healing under normal underwear. He will then create a pocket for the breast implant to go in. At your consultation your surgeon will discuss with you the positioning of the implant, depending on your physical characteristics and the look you are trying to achieve.
“Submuscular” – implant placed partially or totally under the pectoralis major muscle
“Subglandular” – implant placed on top of the muscle and over the glands
After careful placement of the implant, the wound is closed and dressed. You will be given specific aftercare instructions by your Surgeon, but most patients are advised to wear a post-operative bra or chest strap for the first few weeks. We also advise you take a week off work.
Breast Implants
You can choose from two different types of Allergan implants to suit a variety of requirements:
- Natrelle Silicone Cohesive Gel implants
- CUI Silicone Cohesive Gel implants
Allergan Natrelle implants are the premium brand and are a little more expensive but offer a lifetime guarantee. Please see below a brief description on each:
Natrelle breast implants
- Allergan lifetime guarantee
- Unique BIOCELL™ texture – studies show lower incidence of capsular contracture
- Constructed with 6 layers of cohesive silicone gel
- Includes a 360° intrashiel barrier layer to minimise silicone diffusion
- Over 500 implant choices
CUI breast implants
- 10 year Allergan warranty
- High specification silicone elastomer shell and silicone cohesive gel components
- Microcell textured surface – reduces capsular contracture risk
- DRIE barrier shell technology to reduce silicone diffusion
- Latex free
Your surgeon and patient care co-ordinator will be able to advise you on the best option for you. You will also be able to try on a range of breast implant shapes and sizes at consultation.
Find out more about our implant range
Breast Enlargement Patient Story
Debbie Lister
Debbie is a working model and mother of 2. She found that especially after children, her flat chest was limiting her work. She has gone from an A cup to a curvy DD+ (even measuring FF in La Senza!). Watch her story here…
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size can my breasts be increased to?
Q: Where do the implants go – “under” or “over” the muscle?
At your consultation and in discussion with you, your surgeon will choose the positioning of the implant, depending on your physical characteristics.
“Submuscular” – implant placed partially or totally under the pectoralis major muscle
“Subglandular” – implant placed on top of the muscle and over the glands
Q: Will my breasts look and feel natural?
Yes, once the breasts have settled. During the first few weeks following your operation your breast enhancement will feel very firm, swollen and pert.
Q: What implants do you use?
We only use high quality Allergan implants for your peace of mind. We offer both the standard Allergan implants in traditional round shape, or the top of the range Natrelle™ breast implants which offer literally hundreds of options of size, shape and texture. The Natrelle™ implants are available in a more natural anatomical or teardrop shape as well as traditional round and come with a lifetime guarantee.
We do not use PIP Breast Implants and stopped using these over a year ago in Spring 2009.
Q: How do I know which size to go for?
Don’t worry – your surgeon will assess your physiology and discuss your preferences with you before recommending the best implant to suit your frame and give you the look you want. The Hospital Group also offer the Biodynamics® Breast Analysis System in a Computer Assisted Consultation which takes very detailed measurements, after which you can literally see and feel the effect of your new implants by wearing specially made breast prosthesis under a purpose-made stretchy vest. This is available with a Natrelle™ consultation.
Q: Will I need to take time off work?
Yes, normally 7 -10 days is required off work unless your job involves any lifting or carrying, then you may be advised to take more time off. In this case the surgeon can supply you with a medical certificate for your employer.
Q: Will my breasts be painful afterwards?
Many Breast Augmentation patients say they experience more discomfort than actual pain, though you can expect to feel sore and tender afterwards, and you will experience a certain amount of post-operative bruising and swelling over the area(s) treated.
Q: Can I speak to someone who has had a breast enlargement?
Yes, many of our staff have had a breast enlargement and various other cosmetic surgery procedures. We also have many patients who are happy to talk to you about their own experiences
Q: What care do I need to take post-operatively?
Our Patient Care Coordinator will give advice and you’ll also receive a free Patient Information Booklet at your consultation. Do give consideration to post-surgical support bras – the right garment will really help your healing and recovery.
Q: Why would I need to have my implants replaced ?
Implants can be replaced for many reasons, including wanting to change the shape or size of the implants, breasts change due to weight loss or gain, age or having children.
Q: Will there be the same amount of discomfort ?
The pocket or capsule has already been made so if the implants are going in the same position, for example under or over the muscle, there should be less discomfort than the previous procedure.
Q: Is the recovery the same ?
Having a breast implant replacement should be treated the same as the initial procedure, 1 week off work and 4-6 weeks recovery.
Q: Will there be more scarring ?
Where ever possible the surgeon will use the existing scar for the incision, there may be instances where an uplift may also be required and more scarring would then be necessary but the surgeon will discuss this in full at consultation.
Consultation
If you would like to learn more regarding this cosmetic surgery procedure then why not book a free, no obligation consultation with a GMC registered cosmetic surgeon and dedicated patient care co-ordinator at one of our breast enlargement clinics.
At your consultation you will be able to discuss the procedure in detail and ask any questions you may have. Many of our patient care co-ordinators have in fact had a procedure themselves so can share their experience with you first hand.
