Breast Augmentation
Overview
Breast augmentation increases breast size and alters shape, using either silicone implants or the patient’s own fat. Implants give a larger and more predictable size increase; fat transfer gives a smaller, softer change and requires enough donor fat elsewhere. The choice of implant type, size, placement and incision is made at consultation based on your chest measurements and existing tissue, not from a catalogue.
Benefits of this treatment
Predictable size increase
Implants give a specific, plannable increase in volume that is harder to achieve reliably with fat transfer alone.
Restores lost volume
Addresses volume loss after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight change, not only a wish for a larger size.
Choice of look and feel
Implant profile, size and placement are all planned around your existing tissue and frame, not chosen from a generic size chart.
Day-care or short-stay procedure
Most patients go home the same day or after one night.
How the procedure is performed
-
1
15 minutes
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia for comfort and safety throughout.
-
2
10 minutes
Incision
A small incision is made in one of several possible locations, chosen with you in advance based on your anatomy and preference.
-
3
30 minutes
Pocket creation
A precise pocket is created either under the breast tissue or partially under the chest muscle.
-
4
30–45 minutes
Implant placement & closure
The implant is positioned, symmetry is checked with you sitting upright on the table, and the incision is closed.
Recovery and aftercare
-
Days 1–3
Tightness and swelling
The chest feels tight, similar to an intense workout. A supportive surgical bra is worn continuously.
-
Week 1
Back to light routines
Most people manage light daily activities and desk work, avoiding lifting the arms above shoulder height.
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Weeks 2–4
Settling begins
Implants gradually drop from an initially higher position into a more natural one.
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Months 3–6
Final shape
Swelling fully resolves and implants settle into their final position and shape.
Risks and side effects
Capsular contracture
Scar tissue around the implant can tighten over time, occasionally requiring further surgery to correct.
Change in nipple sensation
Temporary or, rarely, permanent altered sensation can occur.
Implant rupture or leak
Implants are not lifetime devices; rupture is uncommon but is why periodic review is recommended.
Rippling or visibility
More likely in very thin patients with limited natural tissue coverage.
Rarer complications
- Infection — Uncommon but occasionally requires implant removal if it does not settle with antibiotics.
- Bleeding (haematoma) — A collection of blood around the implant that may need a return to theatre to drain.
- BIA-ALCL — A rare lymphoma associated with certain textured implant surfaces — discussed as part of informed consent when choosing implant type.
What it costs
What affects the price
Implant type and brand
Silicone, saline, round or anatomical implants are priced differently.
Placement technique
Sub-muscular placement is technically more involved than sub-glandular placement.
Revision vs primary surgery
Replacing existing implants costs more than a first-time augmentation due to added complexity.
Frequently asked questions
Modern silicone implants placed with attention to your existing tissue generally feel very natural, though this varies with implant type and how much of your own tissue covers it.
Not on a fixed schedule, but they are not designed to last a lifetime — most surgeons recommend periodic review and imaging in the years after surgery.
Most patients can, particularly with an incision placed away from the areola, though individual glandular anatomy affects this.
If there is noticeable sagging, an implant alone will not correct the position — this is assessed at consultation and a combined lift may be recommended.
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Next step
Considering Breast Augmentation?
Book a consultation and get a straight answer on whether this is right for you, what it involves, and what it will cost. No obligation to proceed.
- A private, unhurried assessment with the surgeon
- An honest view of what is realistically achievable
- A written quote with no hidden costs
- Complete confidentiality