Breast augmentation, as with any form of surgery, elective or otherwise, is a decision not to be taken lightly. Your surgeon will offer guidance, advice and time for any questions that you may have, making sure that your choice is a fully-informed one.

Types of implants

All breast implants have a silicone shell but they may contain different kinds of filler: gel or saline. The outer silicone shell can be smooth, shiny and polished, or of a slightly rough texture. NB Research shows that breasts augmented with textured implants are less likely to develop the problem of capsular contraction than those with smooth implants. We offer the two most commonly used methods of incision and insertion; at the nipple or under the armpit and it may be more than a simple case of aesthetics as to which option is chosen.

Placement of implants

There are two techniques for placing implants.

1.The implants are placed under the breast tissue and over the chest muscle.
2.The implants are placed under both the chest muscle and the breast tissue.

Your surgeon will be happy to discuss the pros and cons of both with you.

Pre-operative assessment for size and placement of the implant

• Our goal is to augment your breasts to a size better in proportion to your physique whilst maintaing a natural look.

• The size and placement of the implant chosen depends on many factors, such as your original cup size, your desired cup size, and your build, including chest muscle.

• If you have only a small amount of breast tissue and want to augment as much as possible, it is recommended that a large implant is placed below the muscle in order to prevent the feeling or appearance of the implant. There is also less chance of capsular contracture.

• If you have large chest muscles as a result perhaps of exercising, the implant should be placed above the muscles in order to allow for comfortable movement and a natural look.

• For patients with mild to moderate breast sagging, a larger implant placed over the muscle is recommended. The larger the implant, the greater and more favourable the augmentation.

Duration of operation

Between thirty minutes and one hour, carried out under general anaesthesia and you will be admitted the night before.

Recovery and post operative treatment

• All dressings and bandages are removed on the third day following the operation.
• Afterwards, you are free to bathe as usual.
• You will be given a “how to...” demonstration by your nurse on the correct procedure and the reasons for breast massage.
• You will probably be able to resume exercise and normal physical activities within a month or two when any residual soreness has subsided.

Results

Breast augmentation increases breast size and can also balance your body proportions. For many women, including those who may have undergone a mastectomy, the invisible results, your self-esteem and confidence will also increase.

Risks and complications

Capsular contracture occurs if the capsule, or shell, around the implant begins to tighten and thicken. This will cause the breast to feel hard and appear unnatural. Preventing this can be best achieved by regular self-massage. We will advise you on just how to do this. However, should a problem arise, there are a number of paths open to resolve it. Sometimes removal of the capsule is required, or perhaps the implant needs to be replaced.

Despite bleeding generally being minimal during the operation, there is, infrequently, bleeding after surgery, resulting in a large blood clot that needs to be removed. Infection is even less common a probabilty. However, if a breast becomes infected, the implant must be removed immediately. You will need to wait several months before repeating the operation.

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