Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty or sometimes referred to as a "boob job" by patients, involves using breast implants or fat transfer to enhance your breasts. During the operation, implants are inserted into your breasts to increase their size, change their shape, or make them more even. Below are commonly asked questions answered by us on the subject of breast enlargement.
What is the cost of breast implants?
In the UK, breast implant surgery costs around £3,500 to £8,000. This does not usually include the cost of consultations or follow-up care. You'll also have to pay for any follow-up surgery you may need in the future.
What sort of implant should I choose?
There are 2 types of implants, made of silicone or saline.
Silicone implants are the most common type used in the UK. They're less likely to wrinkle and feel more natural. However, they can spread into your breast and cause lumps.
Saline implants are more likely to fold, rupture or go down over time. If they do go down or rupture, the saline will safely be absorbed into your body.
You should discuss the pros and cons of each type of breast implant with your surgeon, along with the size and shape of your implants and where they’ll be placed (behind the breast or behind the breast muscle).
How long breast implants last?
Breast implants do not last a lifetime. It's likely they'll need to be replaced at some point.
Some women may need further surgery after about 10 years, either because of problems with the implants or because their breasts have changed around the implants.
What a breast enlargement involves
Breast enlargement surgery is usually done under general aesthetics. Under general anaesthesia, you don't feel pain because you're completely unconscious. General anaesthesia usually uses a combination of intravenous drugs and inhaled gasses (anaesthetics). The surgery lasts on average, one and a half hours. You may be able to go home the same day, but many patients will spend one night in hospital.
What is the recovery stage like after the surgery?
Your chest may feel tight and your breasts and ribs below your breasts may be tender. You will be mobile from day one and should be back to full exercise within six weeks - avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least a month. It can take a few weeks to fully recover from surgery, so you should take a week or 2 off work. You should not drive for at least 1 week.
Initially, the skin on your breasts may seem tight and the look of it may seem quite high. This usually settles over the course of the first six weeks. Most patients are pleased with their surgery, but some find their new shape is difficult to get used to. You should be prepared for this possibility. However, the final result is seen 3-4 months after the operation as a more natural shape emerges following the surgery. Check out more on Kefi Mind.