breast procedures
Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation surgery involves the procedure of enhancing the size and shape of the breasts by using silicone breast implants. The outcomes of breast augmentation surgery generally bring very high satisfaction levels to patients.
Why Have Breast Augmentation?
Certain individuals may undergo breast augmentation surgery to enhance the size or shape of their breasts. Some women desire larger breasts, more so if they have smaller breasts than they prefer.
Additionally, factors such as ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss can lead to drooping breasts, which can also be improved through breast augmentation.
Furthermore, some women may have one breast significantly larger than the other, and breast augmentation can help in achieving a more balanced appearance.
How is Breast Augmentation Performed?
- Implants can be placed behind the breast, which is the simplest form of breast augmentation.
- Implants can be placed behind the muscle the breast sits on, which gives more padding in very slim women.
- Implants are typically placed through an incision made in the fold beneath the breast. Alternatively, they may be inserted through an incision in the armpit or around the areola.
Breast Implant Information
ABOUT IMPLANTS
Breast implants are typically composed of either silicone or polyurethane for the outer layer. Within this layer, there is either silicone gel, which is the most common, or saline. Silicone implants tend to provide a more natural feel compared to saline implants and can come in various shapes. Saline-filled implants often feel less natural, carry a higher risk of rippling and may deflate. Generally, breast implants have an average lifespan of around 10 years, although this can vary.
IMPLANT SIZE
The size of implants is given in millilitires (ml), in cubic centimeters (cm3) or by weight (grams). During the consultation with your surgeon, they will assess your breasts, ribcage size, and skin elasticity to determine the most suitable implant size for you. In general, larger implants may appear less natural on women with a slimmer physique. It is important to note that your surgeon cannot guarantee an exact cup size, but rather a range. You should communicate your preference for aiming towards the larger or smaller end of the specified range.
IMPLANT SHAPE
Implants can be round or tear-drop shape (anatomical). The projection of the implant, which determines how much it sticks out, can be adjusted to achieve a more subtle or pronounced look. Your surgeon will help you decide which shape will complement your body the most.
is silicone safe?
Medical silicone is used safely in many medical devices, including breast implants. A protective layer, known as a capsule, will naturally develop around the implant within your body. Occasionally, this capsule may thicken and constrict around the implant, potentially altering the shape or sensation of the breast. In such cases, additional surgical intervention may be necessary to extract the capsule. Over time, some silicone may leak out of the implant. This does not cause ill health, but it might cause lumpiness or pain, and you might need surgery to remove and replace the implant.
Our Doctors
Michael McBride FRCS (Plast)
