Breast enlargement (breast augmentation) is a cosmetic procedure to increase breast size using implants
Breast size and shape can play a significant role in how you feel about your appearance. You may feel that your breasts are smaller than you would like, uneven in size, or have lost volume following pregnancy or weight loss. For some women, breast enlargement is about enhancing confidence. For others, it is about restoring shape and proportion.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, private breast enlargement surgery is performed by experienced consultant plastic and cosmetic surgeons. Every treatment plan is personalised to your goals, body shape and lifestyle, with the aim of achieving balanced, natural-looking results.
A detailed consultation allows you to explore your options fully and decide whether breast augmentation is right for you.
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast size and improve shape using implants. You’ll also hear it called breast enlargement, or a ‘boob job’.
During the procedure, implants are inserted either beneath the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle. The choice of placement depends on your anatomy, skin quality and desired outcome.
There are different types of implants available, most commonly silicone gel implants. These are designed to feel soft and natural. Implant size, shape and projection are selected carefully during consultation to ensure the final result is proportionate to your frame.
Incisions are typically made in discreet areas, such as within the natural fold beneath the breast, around the areola, or occasionally in the armpit. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate incision site based on your anatomy and preferences.
Breast enlargement is usually performed under general anaesthetic and takes approximately one to two hours. Most patients return home the same day.
The goal of breast augmentation is enhancement rather than transformation, achieving a result that complements your natural proportions.
The cost of breast enlargement at Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens depends on several factors, including implant type, surgical complexity and your personalised treatment plan. Prices will also vary between different surgeons.
During your consultation, your surgeon will outline the proposed procedure and provide clear, transparent pricing information before you proceed.
Costs typically include surgical fees, anaesthetic, hospital care, implants and follow-up appointments. If additional procedures are recommended, these will be discussed separately. Your initial consultation will be charged separately.
Breast enlargement is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and is not usually covered by private medical insurance. For self-funding patients, the hospital team can provide detailed pricing information and discuss available payment options.
Transparency ensures that you feel fully informed about both the clinical and financial aspects of your care.
Breast augmentation is a commonly performed procedure and is considered safe when carried out by an experienced consultant plastic or cosmetic surgeon in an appropriate clinical setting.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. These may include infection, bleeding, implant rupture or capsular contracture, which is where scar tissue forms around the implant and causes firmness.
Your surgeon will explain all potential risks in detail during your consultation. Careful surgical technique, thorough pre-operative assessment and structured follow-up help minimise complications.
Implants are medical devices and are not considered lifetime products. Over time, replacement or revision surgery may be required.
Choosing a reputable private hospital with consultant-led care ensures high standards of safety and clinical governance.
Many women are able to breastfeed after breast augmentation. However, the ability to breastfeed cannot be guaranteed.
Breastfeeding depends on several factors, including the surgical technique used and individual anatomy. Incisions placed in the breast fold typically have less impact on milk ducts than those placed around the areola.
Your surgeon will discuss incision placement and how this may relate to future breastfeeding plans. If breastfeeding is important to you, this should be raised during your consultation so it can be considered in surgical planning.
After surgery, you will usually be advised to sleep on your back for several weeks. This helps protect the implants and allows swelling to settle evenly.
Sleeping on your side or stomach too soon can place pressure on the breasts and potentially affect healing.
Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance, but most patients are able to resume side sleeping after approximately four to six weeks, once healing is more advanced.
Driving can usually be resumed once you are no longer taking strong pain medication and feel comfortable performing an emergency stop.
For many patients, this is around one to two weeks after surgery. However, recovery varies, and you should only drive when you feel confident and in control.
Your surgeon will provide individual advice based on your progress, and you can also speak to your car insurance provider to understand their particular guidance.
Short flights may be possible within a few weeks of surgery, depending on your recovery. Long-haul travel is generally advised against in the early postoperative period due to the increased risk of swelling and reduced mobility.
Your surgeon will advise you on appropriate timing based on your individual circumstances and overall recovery.
Planning travel carefully helps ensure safe healing and reduces the risk of complications.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, you can expect:
Cosmetic breast surgery requires precision, experience and careful planning. At Fairfield Independent Hospital, breast enlargement is performed by consultant plastic and cosmetic surgeons with expertise in achieving balanced, natural-looking outcomes.
From consultation through to recovery, your care pathway is structured around safety, comfort and achieving your desired results.
If you are considering breast enlargement surgery, arranging a consultation is the first step.
To book a consultation to discuss breast enlargement with a cosmetic surgeon near you, give us a call and one of our friendly advisers will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 01744 739 311
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