Breast Enlargement
Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a Breast Enlargement surgery?

Depending on the technique agreed, your surgeon will probably make incisions in the fold beneath the breast where the implant is then placed inside a pocket formed in the breast tissue, either behind or in front or of the muscle. Once the implant is in place, the incisions are stitched (often with dissolvable sutures that do not need to be removed) and dressings applied. A temporary drainage tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid, but usually this is not required.

What is the duration of a Breast Enlargement surgery?

A breast enlargement procedure, performed under general anesthetic, usually takes around one to two hours and may be a day or overnight case.

How do I plan my Breast Enlargement surgery?

Initially your botonics surgeon will evaluate your health and assess your suitability for the procedure. Tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you’re taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.
Be open about your expectations and he, in turn, will describe your options as well as the risks and limitations of each. It could be that perhaps you would be more interested in a fat transfer to the breasts instead, especially if it’s only a subtle change you are looking at.
Once you book your procedure, rest assured knowing that all the associated costs will be included in the price quoted (anesthesia, the location for your surgery, the recovery schedule and aftercare etc).
You will be given specific instructions on preparing for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins, and medications. If you develop a cold or infection of any kind, your surgery will probably be postponed. Whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards, and be available to help you out for a day or two if needed.
Our surgeons perform breast enlargements in an operating theatre in one of the London’s prestigious private hospitals. Most patients remain in the hospital overnight but some are able to go home on the day of the surgery.

Am I a good candidate for Breast Enlargement surgery?

Having realistic expectations is key and understanding the ins and outs of the procedure before you commit is crucial. Aside from this, if you are in relatively good health, over 18 years old and not currently pregnant or breast-feeding you could be suitable for the procedure. A breast enlargement can enhance your appearance and increase your self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily achieve your ideal. So, before you decide on surgery, discuss everything frankly with your botonics surgeon to make sure you are being realistic.

I live outside of the UK. Is it possible for me to be assessed before I travel to London?

Yes, we often treat patients who are from overseas and so we have a well refined process to assess your medical suitability and prepare you for a breast enlargement procedure prior to your travel.

Will my augmented breasts look natural?

Our aim is to produce as natural looking a result as is possible. Ask your botonics surgeon for before and after pictures to get a better idea of what to expect.

What kind of scarring should I expect following a Breast Enlargement?

There will be minimal scarring at the incision points but these will be discreetly hidden in the breast fold.

I am from abroad, how long before I can fly home?

When it’s appropriate. It will generally be after 1-2 weeks, but since the advice for this is on a case by case basis, it would be best to check with your botonics Surgeon.

How quickly can I return to work?

We advise patients to take at least a week off work, assuming the work is office/desk based. For physical jobs this advice may differ and your botonics surgeon will discuss this with you during your consultation.

When can I go back to the gym?

Generally this is 4 weeks, but could be up to 6 weeks in the case of weight training on the chest area etc.

What are the main risks and complications of a Breast Enlargement?

Every year thousands of breast enlargements are performed successfully. When carried out by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, the operation normally works well. Nevertheless, there are always risks with surgery and there are specific complications associated with this procedure.
In the unlikely case of an infection, antibiotics can be prescribed and, if necessary, drainage – both of which may prolong your hospital stay.
There is also a risk of asymmetry and scarring, and revision surgery may be required in this case. Swelling is a likely side effect but this should subside within a few weeks, same goes for any bruising post op.
One of the major, yet unlikely, risks is something known as capsular contracture in which scar tissue forms around the implant causing hardening, accompanied sometimes by pain and distortion in the shape. Measures can be taken to reduce the risk of this and your botonics surgeon will monitor you at various stages following your procedure. Published rates of capsular contracture following breast enlargements stand at between 6% and 10 % over 5 years.