Breast Augmentation / Enlargement

What is breast enlargement surgery?

Breast enlargement surgery (also known as augmentation mammaplasty) is the surgical placement of an implant under the breast tissue or muscle, or reshaping of natural tissue to enhance the size or shape of the breast. This may be for aesthetic reasons or reconstructive surgery for women who have lost one or both breasts to cancer.

Who will benefit from breast enlargement surgery?

Almost anyone can qualify for breast enlargement surgery; however, the healthier you are (e.g. non-smokers), the better candidate you will be.

Types of breast implants

There are many types of synthetic implants available, varying within silicone (semi-liquid and cohesive) or saline solutions. Natural body tissue is rarely used for cosmetic surgery, but is common in reconstructive surgery.

Procedure

Breast enlargement surgery is quite straightforward; however there are several methods, and your surgeon will talk you through the procedure that is the most suitable for you. Firstly you will be marked for your operation and given a general anesthetic. Incisions will then be made either around the areola (the dark bit surrounding the nipple), in the armpit, in the crease underneath the breast or through the navel. The surgeon will then create a pocket to place the implant either under the breast tissue or deeper under the muscle of the breast. Once the implants have been fitted and the surgeon is happy with the shape, the incisions will be closed. Sometimes drains are fitted to avoid build-up of fluid, but will be removed after your initial check-up.

Recovery period

Two to three days; however it may take between 10 days and four weeks before you can return to work. Breasts may feel sore and swollen for up to 3-4 weeks following breast enlargement surgery surgery.

Risks

Some people may experience a reaction to the use of general anesthetic including sickness, chest infections and DVT's (deep-vein thrombosis) - blood clots developing in a leg vein. Other risks include bleeding, infection, asymmetry problems, scarring, implant rupture and loss or increase in sensation.