Breast augmentation: Your questions answered

Breast augmentation, or breast enlargement surgery, involves inserting artificial breast implants into your breasts to increase their size. If you choose to have a breast enlargement, it's important to know key information about the procedure, so that you're as prepared for it as possible.

Our plastic and cosmetic specialists advise what to expect during the procedure and how to choose your consultant.

Meet the consultants

• Mr David Crawford is a consultant plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon at The Clementine Churchill Hospital, The Hampshire Clinic, Mount Alvernia Hospital and The Princess Margaret Hospital
• Mr Alan Park is a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon at The Meriden Hospital

What are the main benefits of a breast augmentation?

Mr David Crawford: The key benefits I see are from the surgery are:

• Improved self-confidence in the patient
• Improved mental health in the patient
• Improved physical comfort for the patients

Mr Alan Park: Most patients undergo breast augmentation procedures to improve their self-esteem and feel better about themselves.

Apart from the obvious benefits to the look and size of your breasts, there are psychological benefits related to improvements in confidence and social skills.

What should patients consider before undergoing a breast augmentation?

Mr David Crawford: Patients need to carefully consider the following:

1. Do I need the surgery? What difference will it make for me?
2. Who is my consultant? Your consultant should be a member of both BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) and / or BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons) and have a good reputation.

This is an elective procedure. Therefore, it is important that you make an informed decision after adequate advice and forethought.

Make sure you clarify your concerns or aspirations with regards to your breasts to your consultant. Are you concerned about a lack of volume, a droop, or a combination of both? Or, do you have a generalised loss of shape due to weight loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding? These are factors you can discuss with your consultant.

Mr Alan Park: Always research the reputation of your consultant beforehand.

It is also important to select a hospital that you feel relaxed in that has good cleanliness figures, low infection rates and a good reputation.

Think about your expectations following surgery.

Why are you having surgery? Will the surgery meet your expectations? This should all be discussed in advance with your chosen consultant to ensure you are choosing surgery for the right reasons and will be happy with the results.

Fortunately, we have a large network of dedicated consultants experienced in performing breast augmentation surgery across our hospitals.

What should you consider when choosing your breast implants?

Mr David Crawford: Every patient is different and individual.

There is a balance between the breast size a patient desires and the size that may look natural and achievable with an implant.

Patients should try the sizers which will help them decide on the shape and form they desire and will be guided by their surgeon on any possible pitfalls or downfalls of their choice.

Mr Alan Park: When considering which size and projection is correct for you, it is important to know what type of look you are hoping to achieve.

You should also consider your body shape, proportions and the amount of native breast tissue. Clothing is an important factor to consider as if you have a small frame but go for large implants you may find that you struggle to find clothing that fits you well.

What are the main differences between silicone and saline implants?

Mr David Crawford: Silicone and saline have the same shells but the filler is different. Silicone is gel whereas saline is salt water. With salt water you cannot have shaped implants.

Mr Alan Park: Normally patients opt for the silicone versions as they have a softer, natural feel and usually last longer.

Saline implants have more of a water texture, which feels less natural and can be prone to leakage.

What are the immediate post-operative effects?

Mr David Crawford: It takes time for the breasts to settle and for the patient's mind to get used to the body change.

A well-fitting, un-wired bra is advocated for six weeks, providing comfort and support.

For implants placed above muscle, minimal swelling and discomfort is expected for up to five days, for which I prescribe simple painkillers and a supportive, soft bra.

For implants placed below muscle and partially under muscle, there is moderate swelling, tightness and pain for up to seven days.

With adherence to my post-operative exercise protocol, these symptoms usually settle within 10 days.

Mr Alan Park: Following surgery, you will experience swelling and tightness around your breasts as well as mild pain. This can be managed effectively and your care team will ensure you aren't too uncomfortable.

What is the average recovery time?

Mr David Crawford: Most patients are back at work and driving within one week. Showering is OK immediately after surgery.

For implants placed above muscle, recovery time is two to three weeks. Driving is allowed at day seven and most household/work activity (apart from lifting and carrying) is allowed at 10 days.  

For implants placed below muscle or partially under muscle, recovery time is four to six weeks. weeks. Driving is allowed at day 10 and most household/work activity at 14. 

For both groups, walking as comfort allows and gentle jogging is fine within two weeks.

Mr Alan Park: Generally, it takes about six months for everything to settle and your implants to move into their final position.

Normally, people are able to drive after one week, return to work within one to two weeks and return to full activity after two weeks.

Book an appointment with one of our breast surgeons

If you would like to speak to one of our specialist consultants about breast enlargement surgery, you can call us directly or book an appointment with us online.