What is ‘breast augmentation’ surgery?

Breast augmentation is the medical name for a ‘boob job’. It means increasing the size of the breasts with a medical implant. This implant is usually made of silicone and is inserted into the breast via an incision in the crease underneath the breasts.

These implants are a silicone rubber shell filled with silicone gel or saline solution.

Top Row: Before breast augmentation. Bottom Row: After breast augmentation with 375g FF cohesive silicone gel implants.

The insertion and type of implant will depend on your body type, personal preference and your surgeon’s advice.

You will be given a general anaesthetic and the implants will be inserted via the incisions made in the creases underneath the breasts. Other options include the armpits or near the areola (the circular area around the nipple). Your surgeon will then close the incisions with ordinary or dissolvable stitches. These are then taped for extra support and a light bandage will be applied.

You will experience some bruising and soreness after the surgery. This is completely normal and you will be given medication to control any pain.

You are looking at one to two weeks recovery time (approx.)

About breast enlargement

You may choose to have your breasts enlarged because you feel that they are too small. Some women feel that their breasts are too small after losing weight or after a pregnancy. You may also want to have a breast enlargement to correct a difference in size between your two breasts.

You may also consider breast implants if you're having surgery as treatment for breast cancer or other conditions that may affect the size and shape of your breasts.

Breast implants are made of an outer layer of firm silicone, and are usually filled with silicone gel or salt water. Your surgeon will discuss the size, shape and type of implants that may be suitable for you. Manufacturers of breast implants say that they last for at least 10 years, but they may last for longer than this with no problems.

You may still be able to breastfeed with breast implants, and there is no evidence that silicone is found in breast milk. It's important to tell your surgeon before the procedure if you plan to breastfeed because this can affect the type of operation you have.

Breast implants can interfere with mammography. If you're going for breast screening you should tell your radiographer or nurse that you have breast implants.

Who is not suitable for breast enlargement surgery?

Many surgeons won’t operate on anyone aged under 16 as their bodies are still developing. If you are under 16 then a surgeon will ask you to wait until you have stopped growing before seeking surgery. All girls develop at different rates throughout puberty and some will develop bigger breasts before others.

If you are hoping to look like a well known celebrity or model, or achieve a ‘perfect body’ then you are likely to be disappointed. A surgeon will try to achieve the very best result for you but you must be realistic about what he/she can achieve. If you do not have realistic expectations then a surgeon may be reluctant to go ahead.