Everything You Need To Know Before Your Breast Augmentation

• 30 October 2023
• Mr A. Siddiqui

Last updated on October 30, 2023

What is Breast Augmentation?

A Breast Augmentation procedure involves using breast implants to increase the fullness and projection of your breasts. The procedure can also restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy, achieve a more rounded breast shape or improve natural breast size asymmetry and most importantly enhance your self-confidence.

However, Breast Augmentation does not correct severely drooping breasts. If you suffer from sagging breasts, a Breast Lift may be required along with Breast Augmentation to achieve a fuller and lifted look. Your plastic surgeon will advise you when making this decision.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

If you’re considering having Breast Augmentation surgery, it is important that you are doing it for the correct reasons. In order to be considered an ideal candidate you must fit the criteria listed below:

• You are physically healthy
• You are not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Your breasts are fully developed
• You are bothered about the size of your breasts
• You believe your breasts have lost shape and volume after pregnancy, weight loss, or with ageing
• You do not like the upper part of your breast appearing “empty”
• Your breasts are asymmetrical

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Consultations are a crucial part of your Breast Augmentation journey as it allows your plastic surgeons to listen to your concerns and what you hope to achieve so that the right procedure is chosen. Your consultation is also the ideal time to ask your surgeon as many questions as you like to ensure your mind is put at ease.

During your Breast Augmentation consultation, be prepared to discuss:

• Why do you want breast augmentation surgery,
• What are your expectations and the desired outcome
• Your Medical conditions, drug allergies and previous medical treatments
• Your Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use
• Your Family history of breast cancer, ovarian and endometrial cancers, and results of any mammograms or previous biopsies

Furthermore, your plastic surgeon should also:

• Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• Examine and measure your breasts, including detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality and placement of your nipples and areolas
• Take photographs
• Discuss likely outcomes of breast augmentation and any risks or potential complications
• Provide you with leaflets to read
• Provide opportunity to ask questions during or after the consultation
• Arrange second consultation after the cooling period.

Surgery

Surgery can seem overwhelming to many people. To help ease this, please see below a short guide on the stages involved in a Breast Augmentation procedure:

STEP 1- ANAESTHESIA

Breast augmentation surgery is commonly performed under general anaesthesia, in which you’re asleep for the surgery.

STEP 2 – THE INCISION

An incision is made in the fold under the breast. Incisions may vary based on the type of breast implant being used, however, they will always be made in discreet areas to minimise the visible scarring.

STEP 3 – INSERTING THE IMPLANT

Once the incision is made, the implant is inserted into the pocket either with a submuscular placement (under the muscle) or a subglandular placement (over the muscle). A plastic funnel is used to place the implant in the pocket which is usually washed with an antibiotic solution. These minimise future risks of complications. The placement of the implant should be agreed with your surgeon before surgery.

STEP 4 – INCISION IS CLOSED

The final step of the procedure is closing the incision. The incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape to close the skin. Scars will always be present on the incision line, however, over time these scars will fade.

Recovery

After surgery, you will be taken into a recovery room whilst you wake up and come around after your anaesthetic. You may be permitted to go home when you are stable for discharge, this is usually after several hours, but you’ll need someone to drive you.

Before you leave, your surgeon will wrap your breasts in dressings and you must also wear a support bra to minimize swelling and support your healing breasts. This must be worn at all times until instructed by your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will also explain how to care for your incision sites.

During the first few days, you’ll likely experience the most discomfort, however, your surgeon will have prescribed medication to help control the pain. Although the initial pain usually takes place within the first few days, you may experience soreness and swelling for a few weeks. You must take it easy until you have permission to increase your activity. Resume exercise and normal activity according to your plastic surgeon’s directions.