Breast
Augmentation

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery globally. Whether for reconstructive purposes, such as after mastectomy for breast cancer, or for cosmetic reasons, this is a procedure that can significantly boost self-confidence and well-being.

What is
breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. The procedure is tailored to meet your needs and aesthetic goals, whether you are seeking a modest increase in size, or more significant changes.

Whether you have recently been pregnant and looking to restore your pre-pregnancy breast appearance, seeking to enhance your self-confidence, or aiming to achieve a balanced body proportion after weight loss or due to aging, breast augmentation offers a solution to improve your overall body image and satisfaction.

With advancements in surgical techniques and the availability of a wide range of implant options, the procedure can be highly customised to align with your body type and cosmetic desires.

Very nice breast enhancements are even possible for women who have very little native breast tissue.

The procedure,
step by step

The journey to achieving your desired breast profile through augmentation is a multi-step process involving meticulous planning and skilled execution. Each step will ensure your safety and satisfaction with the end result. No matter what clinic you choose, the breast augmentation procedure looks a lot the same, including the following steps.

01.

Medical
evaluation

01.

Medical
evaluation

Before any surgical intervention, a thorough medical evaluation is conducted to assess your overall health and determine the best approach to meet your aesthetic goals. The surgeon will also examine your breasts, taking measurements and possibly photographs for your medical record. This step will ensure a custom-tailored procedure that meet your specific needs.

02.

Anaesthesia

02.

Anaesthesia

On the day of the surgery, you will be given anaesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The type of anaesthesia typically used will put you to sleep during the operation. Patients feeling anxious can receive intravenous sedation.

If you choose to receive a breast harmony procedure using the Mia Femtech™ technology, no anaesthesia is needed. The procedure is focused on minimally invasive approach, giving the patient a natural and discreet result, with an increase of one to two cup sizes.

03.

Incision

03.

Incision

There are typically three different incisions methods; together with your surgeon, you will decide what technique is best suited for your desired degree of enlargement, as well as on the type of implant that will be used. (Further down on this page, you can read more about different breast implants). Common incision techniques include:

  • Inframammary incision: Made under the breast fold, offering direct access to place the implant, with the scar easily hidden by the breast itself.
  • Periareolar incision: A skilled technique, placing the incision around the nipple, blending the scar with the change in skin texture and colour.
  • Transaxillary incision: In the armpit, leaving no scar on the breast itself and is widely used for its ability to hide scars. Endoscopic surgery is sometimes done as well when using this incision.

04.

Insertion of
implant

04.

Insertion of
implant

After the incision, the breast implant is inserted into a pocket, either:

  • Under the pectoral muscle (a submuscular placement), which may reduce the visibility of the implant, but may involve a slightly more extended recovery period.
  • Directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (a subglandular placement). This placement is often chosen for its natural movement and shorter recovery time.

Before the procedure, you will discuss the ultimate insertion and placement for your body and your desired aesthetic outcome.

You will also have questions answered about subsequent mammography and breast imaging, when the time comes that it is indicated.

05.

Closing the incision

05.

Closing the incision

Once the breast implants are properly positioned, the surgeon closes the incisions with meticulous care. This is done using sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape, depending on what is most suitable for the incision. The primary goal is to minimise scarring, while ensuring the incision heals correctly and securely. After the incision is closed, the area is typically wrapped in bandages or a surgical bra to support the breasts during the initial recovery phase.

06.

Recovery

06.

Recovery

During the recovery period, your body heals and adjusts to the implants. Immediately following the surgery, it's common to experience swelling, soreness, and a degree of discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. By following the recovery guidelines, provided for you by your surgeon, you can speed up breast augmentation recovery. The guidelines include how to care for your incisions, recommended post-operative garments and limitations on physical activity, and should be followed to ensure optimal results.

Complete healing and final results can take several weeks to months.

07.

Follow-up

07.

Follow-up

Follow-up appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your healing, address any concerns and ensure that the implants are settling as expected. The first follow-up is typically scheduled within a week after surgery, with subsequent visits depending on your specific case and surgeon’s advice. These appointments are your opportunity to ask questions and discuss any symptoms you are experiencing. It is also a time when the surgeon can provide advice on any necessary adjustments to support your recovery.

‍
Perhaps, you have questions regarding any of the following:

  • How to sleep after breast augmentation?
  • What to expect 1 month post-op?
  • How soon after breast augmentation can I workout?
  • What to wear after breast augmentation?

Find a clinic
in the UK

With Adoreal, you can find the right clinic for breast augmentation in the UK for you. We offer a platform that connects potential patients with reputable clinics specialising in aesthetic procedures, simplifying the process for you and ensuring you find a clinic that meets your criteria. With the app, you can find detailed information about each clinic, including credentials, the experience of surgeons, before-and-after photos and patient reviews.
We help you take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic aspirations with confidence and peace of mind.

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More about
breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is a deeply personal decision and involves various considerations to ensure the results align with your expectations and lifestyle.

Breast implants

There are two primary types of breast implants, each with its own set of characteristics:
• Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. They are inserted empty, and then filled once they are in place, allowing for a smaller incision. Saline implants can feel less natural than silicone but provide a uniform shape, firmness and feel.
• Silicone implants are pre-filled with silicone gel, a thick fluid that closely mimics the feel of human fat, providing a more natural tissue feel than saline options. Most women believe that silicone breast implants look and feel like natural breast tissue.

Your choice of breast implants depends on your personal preference, desired outcome and specific body characteristics. Each type has its profile of feel, look, and surgical considerations that you will discuss thoroughly with a plastic surgeon.

What size to choose

The appropriate implant size depends on various factors, including body frame, existing breast tissue, skin elasticity, and personal preference. Having a realistic expectation and communicating openly with your surgeon about your desired outcome is important.

Surgeons often use sizers, which are placed inside a bra to give an idea of the new size's appearance. 3D imaging technology can also provide a virtual representation of how different sizes might look on your body. The goal is to achieve a proportionate and satisfying result that complements your overall body shape, while addressing your aesthetic goals.

Potential side-effects

While breast augmentation is generally safe and most patients are satisfied with the results, like any surgery, it carries potential risks and side-effects. Feeling anxious is purely natural.

  • Capsular contracture
  • Implant rupture or leakage
  • Changes in sensation
  • Breast pain
  • Cosmetic concerns

Our aim is to help you feel safe before, during and after the breast augmentation procedure, providing you a lifetime of support. Connecting you with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss any concerns you may have, will keep you well-informed and prepared.

Recent Articles

Wearing a compression bra after breast augmentation

After a breast augmentation, you should wear a compression bra for at least 4–6 weeks.

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What is the cost of breast augmentation?

The cost of a breast augmentation in the UK typically ranges from £3,500 to £7,000.

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How soon after breast augmentation can I drink alcohol?

You should be cautious drinking alcohol after a breast augmentation.

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How to help muscle relax after breast augmentation

It is common to experience muscle cramps after a breast augmentation. Tension and discomfort are particularly common if the implants have been placed behind the muscle.

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When can I wear a normal bra after breast augmentation?

You should generally wait 4–6 weeks before wearing a regular bra after a breast augmentation, but this may vary depending on the type of surgery, your body’s healing process, and the size and shape of your implants.

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How long after breast augmentation can I fly?

The general recommendation is to wait at least one week before flying after a breast augmentation to avoid complications.

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How long does a breast augmentation take?

Breast augmentation surgery takes 1-2 hours to complete.

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How long after breast augmentation can I drive?

You should not drive for at least 1 week after breast augmentation. Full recovery takes a few weeks, and you should take 1-2 weeks off work.

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What to expect post-op breast augmentation

A month after breast augmentation, patients often notice a significant reduction in swelling and discomfort, marking a crucial stage in the healing process.

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How to sleep after breast augmentation

After a breast augmentation surgery, you should sleep on your back, with your upper body in an upright position at approximately 30-45° angle.

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Breast augmentation recovery

After breast augmentation, your body needs time to heal and adapt to the new implants.

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How long after breast augmentation can I workout?

Adopting exercise after breast augmentation should be done gradually. Two weeks after surgery, patients are generally ready to get into more intense cardio exercise, getting the heart pumping.

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