Breast Augmentation | Types | Cost | Risks | Recovery
Breast augmentation, or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure that aims to increase the size, shape, or fullness of the breast.
It is one of the most regularly performed procedures in the UK and involves the insertion of implants either on top or below the breast tissue to increase the size or change the shape of the breasts.
Many women choose to have breast augmentation surgery to boost body confidence and to feel comfortable with the size and shape of their breasts.
Having a breast enlargement is a big decision. It is major surgery, the results are not guaranteed and there are some risks to think about (see below).
During the operation, implants are inserted into your breasts to increase their size, change their shape, or make them more even.
Breast Surgery – A big decision
Every patient’s reason for having breast implants is completely unique, so Mr Fitton provide a specialist, individual service that is tailored exactly to your needs.
What type of breast enhancement is best?
There are two main kinds of breast augmentation:
- Cosmetic breast implants. A silicone or saline implant is inserted behind the breast tissue or below the pectoralis, or pushup, muscle.
- Reconstructive surgery. If your breasts were removed in another surgery, breast implants or fat tissue from another part of the body can be used to rebuild them.
Breast augmentation can be combined with a breast lift, or mastopexy. This surgery changes the shape of your breasts, but it doesn’t alter the size.
Breast enlargement involves the placement of a specially engineered breast implant beneath the substance of the breast.
Breast implants can be inserted in one of two planes; either underneath the breast tissue (sub-mammary plane) or in a deep plane underneath the pectoral muscles on the chest wall (sub-muscular plane).
The decision as to where the implant is placed depends upon the surgeon’s judgement and the patient’s preference.
A breast enlargement, or boob job, is an operation that restores, or gives new, shape and volume to the breast.
How long does breast enlargement surgery take?
The operation to enlarge the breast normally takes 1-2 hours and is performed under general anaesthetic. During the procedure, Mr Fitton will make incisions in your breasts, either in the crease under your breast, around the nipple, or towards the centre.
You may be able to return home on the same day that you have your surgery, but many of our patients require or prefer an overnight stay in one of our provider hospitals.
How long is the recovery time for a breast enlargement procedure?
After a breast enlargement, Mr Fitton recommends you take 7-days off work for office based work. You are also not advised to drive for 14 days after your operation. If you undertake heavy lifting or other strenuous physical activity please speak with your clinic nurse for the best advice.
After a breast enlargement, you should wear some form of support sports type bra for several weeks.
On average, a full recovery usually takes about four to six weeks. It’s important to refrain from physical activity, lifting heavy objects and overworking yourself during this time.
How much does breast enlargement surgery cost?
The investment for breast enlargement surgery is approximately £6,146 – £10,770. This includes your surgeon, the procedure and aftercare.
Actual costs vary depending on the provider hospital you choose to have your surgery with.
What are the the risks of breast enlargement surgery?
The most commonly used implants contain silicone. These may be round or anatomical (teardrop).
Over the decades, there have been concerns that silicone breast implants cause certain diseases such as breast cancer and autoimmune conditions. Clinical studies have now confirmed that there is “No correlation between tissue silicone levels in patients with implants and autoimmune disease.” (Weinzweig, J., et al, 1998
Risk of rupture is low (about 4% rupture within 4 years). It can be difficult to determine the integrity of a breast implant by clinical examination. Ultrasound or MRI scans are the most accurate means of assessing the state of the implant.
Other risks of breast enlargement surgery include bleeding, infection, numbness, pain, and implant rippling. We’ll discuss all potential risks with you prior to surgery and answer any questions you have.
Summary
Undergoing a breast enlargement is a big decision. To ensure a smooth recovery, follow Mr Fittons instructions. Wear your recovery bra, and care for your incision sites as directed.
To find out more about having a treatment, book your no obligation consultation. You will meet with Antony Fitton and receive expert advice tailored to your needs.
Please call us on 07494 250277 or book your consultation using our online form.
About your Plastic Surgeon: Mr Antony Fitton
MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng)., FRCS(plast).
Mr Antony R Fitton qualified at the Royal London Hospital in 1989 with distinction in Surgery. He holds a MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng). and FRCS(plast). (Fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons).
He is a member of BAPRAS (British Association for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons), BAAPS (British Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), BSSH (British Society for Surgery of the Hand).
Mr Fitton has received the Paton & Masser Award and the CM Matthews Award from the Royal College of Surgeons of England or his research in nerve injury.
Mr Fitton is licensed as Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon by the GMC.
Life-changing result
"I just wanted to thank you (and your team) for the life-changing result of my top surgery. This will provide me with the freedom that I’m excited to enjoy, including being able to go swimming and actually staying cool in summer! All jokes aside, you have helped to mark a new chapter in my life, for which I am incredibly grateful… ALL the best."
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