Breast Surgery | Breast Augmentation | Breast Enlargement

Breast Augmentation

Breast enlargement

This factsheet is for women who are considering having an operation to enlarge their breasts. A breast enlargement (also known as breast augmentation) operation usually involves placing an artificial implant either under your breast tissue, or under your chest muscle behind your breast.

The implant

Your breast implant will be made of an outer layer of firm, elastic silicone, but may be filled with silicone gel or salt water (saline).2,3 Your surgeon will discuss the various options with you.

The operation

Breast enlargement usually takes between one and two hours and is done under general anaesthetic, which means that you will be asleep throughout the procedure and will feel no pain. Usually it requires an overnight stay in hospital, but occasionally may be done as a day-case, which means you can have the operation and go home the same day.

Your surgeon will make some cuts, the exact position of which can vary. They may be in the crease under your breast, around your nipple or towards your armpit.

Your surgeon will then make a space, or pocket, for the implant. The pocket will probably be beneath your breast or under your chest muscle.

The cut will be closed with stitches. If these are not dissolvable, they will be removed about a week after surgery. Bandages or dressings will be applied over the operation area.

Breast Surgery

It's important not to rush into the decision to have any cosmetic operation. And it's sensible to discuss the options with your GP, who may be able to recommend reputable surgeons or give advice about how to be treated. Breast enlargement is a commonly performed and generally safe operation for most women.

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