Breast Implants

Overview

Breast Augmentation (or a “”boob job”" as it is more commonly known), is a surgical process, usually carried out under general anaesthetic, to increase the size or shape of the breasts, using an implant containing a solution of saline or silicone gel. Breast enlargement is one of the most common types of cosmetic surgery requested in the UK today. Having surgery is an extremely personal decision, but for those who have been unhappy with their body for years, or have lost one or both breasts due to illness, it can be a life changing and rewarding decision. Prior to commencing any treatment, in order to achieve your desired outcome, it is vital that you research thoroughly both your clinic and your surgeon.

Procedure

The usual process is for an cut to be made, either under the natural crease of the breast, or under the armpit. In some cases, depending on the individual, it needs to be made around the areola. The implant is inserted, positioned to the required shape and the incisions stitched by the surgeon. In general, the whole procedure takes around 1-2 hours. It is extremely rare for breast augmentation to be carried out as day surgery. In the unlikely event this is offered, it is wise to have a friend or relative to accompany you to the hospital and stay with you overnight on your discharge, in case of any complications.

Post Operation

Breast implant surgery usually involves an overnight stay in hospital. Recovery time will vary depending on the individual. Their age and health and also the surgeon carrying out the operation can all make a difference. It is usually recommended that you do not participate in any strenuous activities for the first 10 days after your surgery, although you can return to light duties after a matter of days. Complete recovery can take anything from two to six weeks. Pain relief is often provided by the clinic for the first few days after the operation and arm exercises have been known to help. You are likely to experience bruising and swelling and even a burning sensation in the nipples, however, this is to be expected and is completely normal. The swelling can last around a month and scars should start to fade after the first couple of months

Breast Enlargement Prices

These days cosmetic surgery is a highly competitive market, with many clinics competing against each other with pricing wars, by offering substantial discounts or special offers. In general breast surgery in the UK tends to start at around £2750, although for some treatments, you can expect to pay anything up to £5000-£6000. The majority of reputable clinics will also offer their own financing arrangements, which will allow you to pay for your surgery over 1, 3 or even 5 years. A number of factors determine the actual cost. This could include you as an individual (i.e. everyone is different), the type and shape of the implant you choose, the reputation of the surgeon and their fees, the actual procedure used and the clinic itself. Some patients refuse to pay the prices charged in the UK and seek surgery abroad. It is possible to obtain breast surgery in Cuba for a little over £700 although you would also need to factor in costs of travel and accommodation. Countries such as Poland and Czech Republic are also significantly cheaper than the UK. This has lead to an increase in medical tourism in recent years as patients are now choosing to combine their treatment, with a holiday.