Understanding Breast Augmentation: What You Need to Know
Breast enlargement surgery is still one of the most popular procedures for women in the UK, not only allowing you to enhance your natural shape and regain lost volume but also to improve symmetry. For cosmetic purposes, after pregnancy, or for reconstruction after mastectomy, breast augmentation can restore and enhance the self-esteem and look of a patient.
But as with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation is something that should be decided upon with thought and care — and under the direction of a skilled specialist. This guide will take you through everything about decannulation, from the process to recovery and long-term care.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty as it is medically known, is a surgical procedure that aims to increase the size and reshape breasts with implants. There are two main types of implants:
- Saline implants – These are filled with sterile salt water that is adjustable for size and offers a more firm feel.
- Silicone implants – Filled with a somewhat solid gel, these provide a more natural appearance and touch.
Depending on your body type and your desired result, implants can be and will be placed underneath the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle.
Who Can Consider It?
- Women who want to achieve perfectly full and evenly shaped breasts.
- Those who need a reconstruction after a mastectomy or after massive weight loss.
- Those who naturally have uneven-sized breasts.
What to Expect: The Procedure Explained
You’ll go through a comprehensive consultation process before your surgery to talk through your desired goals, as well as implant style and any medical considerations. The method itself consists of:
- Anaesthesia – General, if preferred for comfort.
- Locations of incisions – Typically around the areola, in the breast fold, or in the armpit.
- Implants are placed – precisely, for a natural-looking result.
- Closing – The incision is stitched and covered in a dressing.
The surgery generally involves one or two hours, and most patients leave the same day.
Recovery Timeline
- In the initial days: Expect some mild pain, swelling and bruising.
- 1-2 weeks: Light activities may begin, but heavy workouts are discouraged.
- 4-6 Weeks: Most women are back to full activity; however, implants can take several months to settle into their final position.
Make sure to adhere to your physician’s follow-up instructions so that you can heal properly.
Risks and Considerations
As with all invasive procedures, breast augmentation involves certain risks, such as:
- Short-term side effects like swelling, bruising, temporary numbness.
- Occasional complications (infection, implant rupture, capsular contracture — in which scar tissue forms around the implant).
Regular sequential visits to your implant surgeon help gauge implant health.
Not a Lifetime Solution
Though contemporary implants are long-lasting, they are not indestructible. A significant number of women will require replacement or revision surgery at 10–15 years. Subsequent procedures could address personal preference, ageing or wear of the implant.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Increased confidence – Most of the women feel better about themselves.
- Evened out symmetry – If your breasts are uneven, the corrective surgery would make you appear more in proportion.
- Reconstruction alternatives – Important to breast cancer survivors seeking to add to the fullness they’ve lost after a mastectomy.
Implants are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and textures and can be customised to fit your body.
Choosing the Right Provider
Choose an experienced, board-certified surgeon. Questions to ask your doctor during consultation:
- What are your qualifications?
- What type of implant is best for me?
- May I look at before-and-after images of your past patients?
Always look out for a licensed private hospital or clinic to ensure the highest levels of care.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Breast Augmentation is a life-altering procedure and should only be done after much research and discussion with a professional. If this is something you are interested in, Chase Lodge Hospital has specialist clinics to take you through the process.
Ready to explore your options? Book an appointment today and take the first step toward achieving your desired look with confidence.
