Overview of the procedure
Undergoing breast augmentation surgery is not merely a medical procedure; it represents a significant transformation that can boost your self-esteem and enrich your overall quality of life.
In some women, the natural appearance of their breasts has a negative impact on their body image and self-confidence. In breast augmentation surgery, breast implants can provide a surgical enhancement, delivering beautiful, long-term results that can rebuild your confidence and provide you with the feminine curves you desire.
Your breast enlargement surgery will be carried out under general anaesthesia, with the procedure lasting between one to two hours. Furthermore, this breast implant operation is conducted as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to return home the same day to recover in a comfortable environment.
After the surgery, follow-up appointments are arranged at one week, two weeks, two to four months, and twelve months post-operation. These check-ups are crucial for ensuring optimal recovery, minimising scarring from the procedure, and ensuring you have the appropriate post-surgery bra. For more information about your breast augmentation procedure, feel free to explore our blog.
What is breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery aims to enhance the size and fullness of the breasts. Commonly known as breast enlargement, augmentation mammoplasty, or simply a boob job, this procedure is the most sought-after cosmetic operation performed at the Beverley Clinic. The primary objective of this surgery is to achieve breasts that align with your aesthetic desires and harmoniously complement your body shape.
Procedure at a glance
Preparing for Your Breast Surgery
Breast implants come in various shapes, sizes, and profiles, and their placement within different pocket positions beneath the tissue is a crucial aspect of your cosmetic procedure. This decision significantly influences the final appearance of your breasts, making it essential to select the implants that are right for you.
Recognising that each patient has unique aspirations and body types, your surgeon dedicates time to discussing your cosmetic goals and identifying the most suitable implants, placement options, and sizes to help you realise your vision. Bringing along photo references can be particularly beneficial in illustrating your desired aesthetic. These can include images of yourself from earlier stages of life (such as before pregnancy, weight changes, or as you aged) or pictures of others, including online influencers, models, or celebrities.
Additionally, the clinic team will guide you through the breast augmentation recovery process, outlining what to expect both immediately following the procedure and in the long term. For instance, if you are considering future pregnancies, he can provide insights on the implications of breast implants during this time.
Before & After
The Beverley Hospital is home to some of the most distinguished cosmetic surgeons in the UK, utilises silicone breast implants to enhance both the fullness and projection of the breasts. Beyond aesthetic improvement, this procedure can also address asymmetrical breasts and congenital breast shape abnormalities through advanced augmentation techniques.
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About your implants
When selecting your silicone implants, your surgeon will collaborate with you to comprehend your objectives and align these aspirations with your body shape and structure. Envisioning the desired appearance of your breasts will influence your choice between round implants and teardrop implants.
Round Implant
Round implants are the most prevalent choice among women seeking that iconic rounded appearance. Their uniform shape ensures overall fullness across the breast, resulting in enhanced cleavage and a more pronounced depth.
Teardrop Implant
Teardrop implants, also known as anatomical implants, offer a more natural appearance for women. With increased volume concentrated towards the lower pole, this implant shape delivers fullness with reduced projection, closely resembling the natural contour of the breast.
Choosing the right implants
Implant Size
When patients consult with one of our surgeons, they often have a specific bra size in mind. However, it is important to note that bra sizes can differ significantly between brands, making them an unreliable metric for breast size. Cosmetic surgeons, therefore, prefer to use cubic centimetres (CC) as a more accurate and standardised method of measuring breast volume. Generally, a higher CC indicates a larger breast size in both volume and overall dimensions. Refer to our breast implant size guide for further information on selecting the appropriate CC.
During your in-person consultation, your surgeon will conduct several measurements to assess your current breast shape and chest dimensions. You will also participate in an implant sizing session, allowing you to simulate various implant volumes in your bra. The CC of your breast implants will be tailored to align with your cosmetic goals, as well as your lifestyle, hobbies, and body shape. It is advisable to bring a snug-fitting top to try on and gauge your desired volume.
The size and shape of your breasts should enhance your life and elevate your self-esteem without causing any discomfort. Therefore, this sizing session is crucial in ensuring the selected implants complement your lifestyle and future aspirations, such as engaging in sports or considering future pregnancies.
Once your surgeon has a clear understanding of your objectives, chest measurements, and the outcomes from the sizing session, he will order a selection of custom implants tailored to your requirements. During your procedure, he will choose the implants that will yield the most aesthetically pleasing results.
Implant Profile
A breast implant profile pertains to the degree of projection the implant has from your chest wall. The available profiles include low profile (featuring minimal anterior convexity and volume, with the broadest base width), moderate profile (offering medium convexity and volume), high profile, and extra-high profile (characterised by a dome-like convexity with maximal volume and projection, along with the narrowest base diameter).
The aim is to achieve harmonious proportions that complement your natural breast contours, chest size, and overall body dimensions. For individuals with smaller frames and narrower breasts, high-profile implants can yield the most natural-looking results, as they avoid the risk of appearing unnatural due to their smaller base diameter. Conversely, selecting a low profile with a wider diameter for a petite frame may extend beyond your breast’s natural borders, resulting in a distorted or overly artificial appearance.
Thus, the selection of your breast implant size and profile is a crucial decision that significantly influences the naturalness of the outcome. Scheduling a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon allows you to explore different implant options to determine the best fit for your needs.
During your in-person consultation with your surgeon, he will suggest the most suitable profile and size in alignment with your aesthetic objectives and body shape, ensuring optimal results and the highest level of patient satisfaction.
Implant Position
Over The Muscle (Subglandular Placement)
Under The Muscle (Submuscular Placement)
Dual Plane (Mixture)
Discuss with a surgeon
If you’re considering breast augmentation or have questions about the procedure, engaging in a discussion with a surgeon at Beverley Clinic can provide you with invaluable insights tailored to your unique needs.
Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you understand your options and achieve your aesthetic goals, ensuring you feel confident and informed every step of the way.
Our clients experience at Beverley Clinic
Breast Augmentation Patient
Andrew was exactly what I was hoping for, a professional expert who was also very compassionate and easy to talk to
From the first consultation to the recovery, Andrew was exactly what I was hoping for, a professional expert who was also very compassionate and easy to talk to. Andrew and his whole team made an anxious time so much easier. I would highly recommend him. Many thanks.
Frequently asked questions
Our FAQs section provides comprehensive answers to the most common inquiries regarding our procedures, helping you to make informed decisions and gain clarity on what to expect throughout your journey at Beverley Clinic.
What are the other main risks of breast implants?
We use implants from companies that have very strong safety records to date. There are always minor asymmetries after surgery and implants can drop into position at different rates. Infection is very uncommon but can spoil the recovery as can delayed healing of the wound. In most cases the position of the implants settles at 3-4 months for the implant types we use. We provide comprehensive information on breast implant safety and key considerations that are uncommon but very important. You can get some information on ALCL also on the BAAPs website.
What is Breast Implant associated with ALCL?
At present ALCL is defined as a very uncommon form of cancer related to our blood cells that develops in the capsule of the implant. The capsule is the natural scar a person creates around any foreign material in their body – like a breast implant, a knee or hip replacement. For the majority of patients it is treated by removing the implant and capsule. Currently it is thought it affects 1 in 15000 implants in the UK. In our practice we haven’t used textured implants from certain manufacturers that have an associated higher risk of ALCL. Further information can be found on these useful links;
What is the recovery like?
We ask patients to refrain from gym work, heavy lifting and contact sports for at least 8 weeks to ensure there is optimal healing. Most patients return to work after 2 weeks and we advise a good sports/support bra for at least 8 weeks too.
Do implants move around?
Yes, implants do move over time and because they have a specific weight, gravity does take its course and implants can descend down the chest over time. This can occur more with ‘smooth’ implants and less so with ‘textured’ implants, but smooth implants have other advantages too. If you lose weight, the skin around the breast can sag, and this can encourage implants being mobile and even flipping under the skin giving a misshapen appearance.
What are the risks of having an implant inside me?
All implants have a limit on their lifespan. It is difficult to say exactly what this is and the rule of ‘every 10 years they need to be changed’ isn’t necessarily true. However over time the risk of rupture and tightening of the scar around the implant (the capsule) becomes more likely, which can mean operations to change the implants or simply remove them.
Please use the breast augmentation awareness tool below for further information.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cosmetic-breast-augmentation-risk-awareness-tool
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants do not have a defined shelf life. However, there is limited research regarding their longevity beyond 15 years, and many women successfully retain the same implants for this duration.
The decision to undergo revision surgery often stems from changes in the aesthetic appearance of the breasts as natural breast tissue evolves over time or due to scarring. Consequently, the primary motivation for the removal and replacement of breast implants is aligned with cosmetic aspirations rather than the age of the implants themselves.
As a general guideline, if your implants feel soft and maintain a normal appearance, there is no compelling reason to routinely replace or remove them based solely on their age.
Can You Get A Breast Augmentation On The NHS?
Breast augmentation is classified as a cosmetic procedure, meaning it is typically not available through the NHS and requires treatment at a private clinic. However, in certain circumstances, you may be eligible to request breast enlargement on the NHS if you have asymmetrical breasts or a complete absence of breast tissue, and this condition leads to significant psychological distress.
Is It Better To Get Implants Or A Fat Transfer?
Each breast enhancement method comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it a highly personal choice that should align with your goals, lifestyle, and body image.
Fat transfer breast augmentation provides a natural approach to enhancing the shape and size of your breasts. During this procedure, your surgeon employs fat grafting techniques to harvest fat from areas such as the abdomen, hips, and thighs. This not only increases breast size but also removes unwanted fat from stubborn regions that are often resistant to diet and exercise, resulting in improved body contours.
In contrast, breast implant augmentation involves the use of implants filled with silicone or gel. This option allows for greater control over the desired size and shape of your breasts, as you can select the specific volume of the implants. However, it is important to note that implants are foreign materials, which can sometimes lead to rejection by the body, resulting in discomfort or capsular contracture. Additionally, it is advisable to anticipate replacement surgery approximately every 10-15 years.
To explore your options with at the clinic, reach out to us to book a consultation
What Is A Natural Alternative To Breast Implants?
If you desire larger breasts without resorting to implants, a fat transfer breast augmentation may be an ideal solution.
This procedure involves harvesting fat from a donor area on your body and injecting it into your breasts to enhance their volume and shape. Your surgeon at the clinic will extract unwanted fat from areas such as your thighs, flanks, abdomen, or hips, and then process it into an injectable filler. Also known as lipomodelling or lipofilling, this method is regarded as a natural breast enhancement since it employs your body’s own fat cells. This increasingly popular surgical option not only helps eliminate stubborn fat but also provides fuller breasts that align with your aesthetic goals.
Originally, the Beverley Clinic utilised this procedure to address issues such as asymmetrical breasts, congenital abnormalities, or breast tissue damage resulting from mastectomy or lumpectomy cancer treatments. However, as breasts inherently contain fatty tissue, these advanced fat grafting techniques can produce beautifully natural aesthetic results. Thus, it serves as a viable alternative to breast implant surgery for those seeking subtle enhancements without the use of synthetic materials.
Additional benefits include:
- Natural results: By using your own fat cells, the final outcome offers a more organic appearance and feel compared to traditional implants.
- Simultaneous body sculpting: The removal of excess fat can enhance your body contours while targeting stubborn areas.
- Minimal scarring: Fat transfer involves small incisions for both fat extraction and injection, resulting in less scarring compared to other cosmetic procedures.
- Reduced risk of long-term complications: Since Mr Pieri employs your natural cells, the risk of long-term complications, such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or ALCL, is significantly lower.
Does Breast Augmentation Surgery Leave A Scar?
Breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction surgeries necessitate incisions to access the underlying breast tissue for the procedure. While scarring is typically minimal and often discreet, you can expect a scar of approximately 3-5 cm located beneath the breast crease. In certain cases, additional incisions may be necessary to achieve the desired breast shape, and your surgeon will thoroughly discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this before your surgery.
Proper care during your recovery phase and the avoidance of strenuous activities will enhance scar healing and decrease the likelihood of scar stretching. Although the initial healing process occurs within the first few weeks, it can take up to 2 years for scar tissue to mature fully, with variations among individuals. Research indicates that the appearance of scars can be improved through massage during the healing period. Additionally, the use of silicone gels may further support your recovery. For more detailed guidance, we encourage you to consult with your surgeon during your appointment.
Are Breast Implants Safe?
Since the PIP implant scandal in 2010, global regulations regarding implants have become significantly more stringent. In recent years, advancements in implant technology have resulted in considerably lower leak rates compared to the past. Furthermore, improvements in the texture of the implant shell have enhanced the likelihood of reducing capsular contracture, thereby extending the longevity of both breast implants and the associated surgical outcomes.
In addition to innovations in implant technology, enhancements in surgical techniques and methods have played a vital role in minimising complications during procedures. Consequently, some patients are able to maintain their implants for over 20 years without experiencing any issues.
How Much Is Breast Enlargement Surgery?
Each breast augmentation procedure is customised to suit your individual preferences. Factors such as the need for concurrent uplift surgery and the choice of hospital for the procedure mean that a standard price cannot be applied universally.
To receive a personalised quote for your breast enlargement, please schedule a complimentary remote consultation to discuss your specific requirements, or contact us here. For further information, you can also explore our guide on the costs associated with a boob job.
Should Breast Implants Be Replaced?
The durability of your breast implants regarding cosmetic outcomes can be affected by various natural factors, including ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fluctuations in weight. As your body undergoes these changes, the shape and size of your natural breasts may shift, which can cause the implants to no longer sit in their optimal position.
A frequent reason for undergoing implant removal surgery is capsular contracture, a condition characterised by the tightening of scar tissue around the implant. This can lead to a firm or tight sensation and may result in asymmetry between the breasts. Additionally, depending on the brand or age of the implants, a rupture may occur, causing the silicone gel to leak. If you experience pain, discomfort, or suspect there may be a problem with your breast implants, it is crucial to consult your cosmetic surgeon to determine the most appropriate course of action.
If you find that you are dissatisfied with the current aesthetic results, Mr Pieri recommends scheduling a consultation to explore options for breast implant removal and replacement, which can be performed alongside uplift surgery. You can book your consultation with at the clinic today.
