Breast Augmentation
(Commonly referred to as Breast Enlargement or Re-Shaping)

Many women are unhappy with the size and shape of their breasts. An out of proportion bust can result in some women feeling embarrassed, depressed or unfeminine.

All women have their own ideas on size, but most women would agree that a beautiful bustline should look natural, firm, full and uplifted. Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures.

Who is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation ?

Women who have never developed to the size they desired in the first place, and women who at one time had more breast tissue, but then lost size through weight loss or pregnancy.

Most women do not seek very large implants, but rather just enough to increase the size to better fit into available clothing styles.

How can a woman decide which size implants she wants ?

By a thorough discussion between herself and the Surgeon the correct size of implant can be determined.

It is helpful if the woman has formed an idea beforehand of the size she would like to be.

How is the surgery performed ?

Most frequently a small incision under the breast is made, sliding the prosthesis into place under existing breast tissue and positioning it.

The operation takes approximately one hour, is performed under general anaesthetic and involves an overnight stay in the hospital. Dressings and sutures, if not soluble, are removed one week after surgery.

Silicone Implants

In recent years there has been much debate concerning the safety of this type of implant. However, results of major studies have confirmed that breast cancer does not occur more often in women with breast implants than women without them. To date, to our knowledge there is no scientific evidence that silicone has any detrimental effect on the body.

Most people are surprised to learn that we all have silicone in our bodies. It can be found in our lymph glands and our immune system. Moreover there are hundreds of implanted medical devices made of silicone, e.g. pacemakers, artificial joints.

Recovery

Generally after surgery the breasts are not painful, but may feel tight with the increase in size. Immediately after the operation the breasts will be larger and firmer than they will be ultimately.

This is due to swelling of the breast tissue. By 1-2 weeks after surgery the breasts should be softening, but it can take up to 6 months for all the swelling to resolve.

Patients are asked to wear a well fitting support bra day and night for 6 weeks after surgery. Sporting activity has to be restricted after the operation for at least 4 weeks.

No driving for one week after the operation and you should only drive if absolutely necesaary the following week.

Can women breast feed after augmentation ?

Yes. There is no evidence that silicone from an implant enters the breast milk in any significant amounts.

What about mammograms after breast augmentation ?

A woman with implants should follow the same breast care guidelines as a woman without implants. As the implants are surgically inserted behind all the breast tissue mammograms can still be performed as no breast tissue is concealed, either on self or clinical examination for lumps.

At North West Independent Hospital we can offer all aspects of healthcare including cosmetic surgery.

We pride ourselves on the professional and caring services offered to patients, with treatment by an experienced and accredited Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

Cosmetic Procedures Include:
Facelife / Mini Facelift, Breast Augmentation (Breast Enlargement), Breast Reduction, Otoplasty (Bat Ears), Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery), Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Liposuction, Rhinoplasty (Nose Re-Shaping), Scar Revision, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Tattoo Removal, Injectable Therapies.