What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation surgery, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance breast size and shape. This popular cosmetic surgery can help increase breast volume, improve symmetry, or restore fullness lost due to factors like pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.

Key points

Duration of the surgery

1-1,5 hours

Anaesthesia

General

Recovery period

5-7 days

Clinic stay

not necessary

Types of breast augmentation

There are two primary approaches to breast augmentation:

1. Breast Implants: The most common method involves the insertion of silicone or saline implants.
   Ideal for: patients wanting a significant size increase, predictable results, and who have little natural breast tissue.

2. Hybrid Breast Augmentation combines Implants with Fat Transfer: to create fuller, narrower cleavage and a sharper contour.

   Ideal for: patients who want a narrow cleavage or sometimes smoother transitions between the implant and natural tissue. The procedure often includes liposuction from one or more body areas to enhance overall body shape while refining the breast contour.

Breast augmentation step by step:

1. Anesthesia: Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure.

2. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in one of three possible locations:

   • Inframammary fold (under the breast).

   • Peri-areolar (around the nipple).

   • Armpit (under axilla).

3. Pocket Creation: A space is created for the implant:

   • Over the muscle (subfascial/subglandular placement).

   • Under the muscle (subpectoral/submuscular placement).

4. Implant Insertion: The chosen breast implant is carefully inserted into the created pocket.

5. Positioning: The surgeon adjusts the implant to achieve the desired shape and position.

6. Closure: Incisions are closed using 3-layer skin sutures and surgical tape for the skin.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery time varies, but generally follows this timeline:

• Most patients return home the same day.

• Initial recovery takes 1-2 weeks.

• Full recovery may take 6-8 weeks.

• Patients should avoid strenuous activities for at least 4-8 weeks, depending on the chosen implant pocket.

Breast Augmentation Before/After

Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation Sub-glandular plane 350cc

Breast Augmentation Dual-plane 295cc

Breast Augmentation FAQs by Plastic Surgeon Žygimantas Mačys

01 | What are breast augmentation implants options?

• Round implants:

  These provide fuller upper pole fullness and are less likely to rotate.

• Teardrop (anatomical) implants:

  These offer a more natural slope and in some cases, expand a constricted lower pole.

• Smooth implants:

  It has almost 0% risk of BIA-ALCL and moves more naturally within the breast pocket, mimicking the look of natural breasts.

• Textured Implants:

  Designed to adhere to surrounding tissue, they move less and remain more stable in their initial position.

02 | How long do breast implants typically last?

Breast implants typically last between 10-12 years on average.

03 | What size implants should I choose?

The ideal implant size depends on your body type, breast circumference, your height, and most importantly, your own natural breast width. Factors to consider include your body proportions, skin elasticity, breast envelope, and activity level. During the consultation, I will help determine the appropriate size based on measurements and your goals. The right size should complement your body for natural-looking results.

04 | Will breast implants affect nipple sensation?

Breast implants can temporarily affect nipple sensitivity. Some patients notice increased or decreased sensation after surgery, which usually improves over time. However, some patients may experience long-term or permanent changes in nipple sensitivity.

05 | What are the risks and potential complications of breast implant surgery?

• Infection.

• Bleeding or hematoma.

• Changes in nipple or breast sensation.

• Implant rupture or silicone leakage.

• Capsular contracture (your immune system's response to a foreign body, which forms a tighter capsule around the implant).

• Breast implants associated - anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

• Implant displacement, malposition or rotation.

• Rippling or wrinkling of the skin over the implant.

• Asymmetry.

• Persistent pain.

• Need for revision surgery.

Less common risks may include seroma, poor scarring etc. I will discuss other potential risks during our consultation.

06 | What are post-op care after breast augmentation?

• Rest for the first 5-7 days.

• Wear a support bra as directed, usually for about 6-8 weeks.

• Take prescribed medications for pain management and to prevent infection.

• Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.

• Avoid raising arms above the shoulders for the first 10 days.

• No strenuous activities, avoid heavy lifting or exercises for 6-8 weeks.

Considering Breast Augmentation in Manchester, UK?

Book your free consultation with me at Transform Clinic.