The Procedure
Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia. A small incision is made either at the inframammary fold (under the breast) or at the lower border of the areola, through which a pocket is created for the implant. Depending on the patient’s anatomy and desired outcome, the implant may be placed either beneath the breast gland (subglandular) or beneath the pectoral muscle (submuscular). A more advanced technique known as ‘dual-plane’, where the submuscular implant pocket is combined with sunglandular dissection is widely used due to its natural and safe results. Surgery typically takes approximately one hour to complete.
Choosing the Right Implants
How is implant size determined?
The selection of implant size is made during a consultation at the clinic. Patients can try on specially designed sizers placed over their breasts to visualise different sizes before making a final decision. The surgeon also discusses additional considerations, such as implant shape, incision site and placement technique (submuscular, subglandular, or dual-plane). The choice of implant is tailored to the patient’s expectations, body type and the surgeon’s expertise.
Correcting Asymmetry with Different Implant Sizes
Breast asymmetry is a common concern among patients seeking augmentation. In cases of mild asymmetry, different-sized implants can be used to achieve a more harmonious result. However, for significant asymmetry, additional surgical interventions such as breast lift or reduction may be required to achieve optimal symmetry.
Safety of Silicone Implants
Modern silicone implants are highly durable and safe. Only high-quality, certified implants, such as those from Motiva or Mentor, are used. In rare cases, complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture may occur. In such instances, implants are typically covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, often lasting at least 10 years. Regular follow-up imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, is recommended to monitor implant integrity.
Incision Placement
There are two primary incision options for breast augmentation:
Photos Before & After
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Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Recovery is generally quick, with most patients staying overnight for observation. Postoperative discomfort is mild and manageable with standard pain relief. Antibiotics are prescribed to minimise the risk of infection. Some swelling is expected during the first few weeks but gradually subsides. Most patients can return to work within 7-10 days if their job does not require strenuous activity. Physical exercise can usually resume after approximately one month.
For the first 4-6 weeks, a supportive surgical bra is recommended to aid in shaping the breasts. While breast size is immediately noticeable, the final results are best assessed around three months postoperatively.
Impact on Breastfeeding
Breast augmentation does not interfere with the nipple or milk ducts, meaning the ability to breastfeed is largely preserved. However, in rare cases, some impact on lactation may occur.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Fat transfer breast augmentation involves harvesting fat from other areas of the body (e.g., abdomen or thighs), processing it, and injecting it into the breasts. This method often requires multiple sessions, as a proportion of the transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed by the body. In some cases, fat transfer can be combined with implants to enhance the final result.
Breast Augmentation and Breast Cancer
There is no scientific evidence linking silicone implants to an increased risk of breast cancer. Routine breast screening, including ultrasound and mammography, remains feasible following breast augmentation.
A rare condition known as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) has been associated with textured implants. This is an uncommon immune system cancer that typically presents 8-10 years postoperatively with unilateral breast swelling or pain. Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed information on this condition during your consultation.
Complications
Possible complications of breast augmentation include haematoma, infection, implant asymmetry and capsular contracture. Less common issues include implant rupture or visible rippling. Additionally, some patients may develop hypertrophic or keloid scarring.
Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation depends primarily on the type and brand of implants used. Patients are informed about pricing and payment options during their initial consultation with the plastic surgeon.
Breast Augmentation with Breast Lift
Breast augmentation is frequently combined with a breast lift, particularly in cases where additional volume enhancement is desired alongside correction of breast ptosis. This combined procedure is more complex than standalone augmentation and requires detailed preoperative planning, but it offers excellent outcomes.
