Breast augmentation with implants is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast volume, improve breast shape, and help create better proportion with the rest of the body. For many people, it is also a way to restore fullness after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or natural ageing. The aim is not a “one size fits all” result, but a balanced outcome that suits your frame, lifestyle, and preferences.

What breast augmentation with implants is designed to achieve

Breast augmentation uses a medical implant to add volume and reshape the breast. Depending on your starting anatomy and goals, it may help to:

• Increase breast size and improve overall proportion
• Restore lost upper fullness after pregnancy or weight loss
• Improve mild asymmetry (most breasts are naturally slightly different)
• Enhance breast shape and projection in clothing and without clothing

It is important to know what implants can and cannot do. Implants can add volume and improve shape, but they do not reliably correct significant drooping. If the nipples sit low on the breast or the breast skin is very loose, a breast lift (mastopexy) may be recommended with or instead of implants.

Who may be suitable, and when it may not be the right option

Breast augmentation may be suitable if you:

• Feel your breasts are small for your body proportions
• Have lost volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
• Have mild drooping that could improve with added volume
• Have noticeable asymmetry that you would like to reduce
• Are in good general health and have realistic expectations

There are also situations where surgery may need to be postponed or planned more carefully. This can include:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (surgery is usually delayed)
• Uncontrolled medical conditions such as diabetes, significant heart or lung disease, or certain autoimmune conditions
• Smoking or nicotine use, which increases the risk of wound healing problems and poor scarring
• A preference for a very large implant that may not be safe or suitable for your tissues long-term

A personalised assessment is essential, because the safest and most natural-looking results depend on your skin quality, existing breast tissue, chest width, and overall build.

Planning your result: implant choices and pre-operative assessment

Choosing an implant is a clinical decision guided by your goals and your anatomy. During consultation, your surgeon will assess your breasts and chest wall, discuss your preferences, and help you understand what is achievable.

Key decisions typically include:

Implant shape

• Round implants can provide more fullness in the upper breast. If they rotate, the shape usually does not change.
• Anatomical (teardrop) implants are shaped to mimic a natural breast contour. They can be a good option for certain body types, but rotation can affect breast shape and may require correction.
• Ergonomic or “dynamic” style implants are designed to change shape slightly depending on posture.

Implant filling

• Silicone gel implants generally feel more like natural breast tissue and are widely used.
• Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. They may feel firmer and can show rippling more easily in people with thin tissue coverage.

Implant size and profile

Implants are measured by volume (often in cc), but size selection is not just about a number. The width of your chest, the base diameter of the implant, and the profile (how far the implant projects) all influence the final look. A size that is too large for your tissues can increase the risk of complications and may look less natural.

Implant surface and safety considerations

Implants come with different surface textures. Your surgeon will explain the current evidence around implant surfaces, including the rare association between certain textured implants and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This condition is uncommon, but it is an important part of informed consent and implant selection.

How the procedure is generally performed

Breast augmentation is usually carried out under general anaesthesia at our clinic.

Although the exact technique is tailored to you, the procedure typically involves:

1. Anaesthesia and preparation General anaesthesia is used so you are asleep and comfortable.

2. Incision placement An incision is made in a discreet location, commonly:

   • In the crease under the breast (inframammary fold)
   • Around the lower edge of the areola (periareolar)
   • In the armpit (less common)

3. Creating the implant pocket and placing the implant The implant may be positioned:

   • Under the chest muscle (submuscular or dual-plane), often chosen when more tissue coverage is needed
   • Over the muscle, under the breast tissue (subglandular), sometimes suitable when there is adequate natural tissue

4. Closure and dressing The incision is closed carefully to support neat scar healing. A supportive surgical bra is usually fitted.

Surgery commonly takes a few hours, depending on the complexity and whether additional procedures (such as a breast lift) are planned.

Recovery, follow-up, and how results develop over time

Recovery varies from person to person, but most patients experience swelling, tightness, and soreness in the first days after surgery. Discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed pain relief.

What to expect in the first few weeks

• Swelling and bruising are common and gradually improve
• The breasts may sit higher initially and feel firm
• Sensation changes in the nipples or breast skin can occur (often temporary, but sometimes longer-lasting)
• A supportive post-operative bra is typically recommended

Many people can return to light daily activities within about 1 to 2 weeks, but strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and upper-body training usually need to be avoided for longer. Your surgeon will give specific guidance based on implant position and your healing.

When the final result is clearer

Implants often “settle” over several weeks as swelling reduces and tissues relax. The breast shape continues to refine over the following months. Scars typically look red or raised early on and then fade gradually, which can take many months.

Ongoing care

Follow-up appointments are important to check wound healing, implant position, and early signs of complications. You will also be advised on scar care and when it is safe to resume exercise, sleeping positions, and normal routines.

Risks, limitations, and important considerations

All surgery carries risk, and breast augmentation is no exception. Most patients recover well, but it is important to understand potential complications.

Short-term risks

• Bleeding (haematoma) or fluid collection (seroma)
• Infection
• Wound healing problems and unfavourable scarring
• Pain and tightness, especially when implants are placed under the muscle
• Temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation
• Blood clots (rare but serious)
• Anaesthetic risks (uncommon, but possible)

Longer-term risks

• Capsular contracture: tightening of the scar capsule around the implant, which can cause firmness, discomfort, or shape change
• Implant malposition: shifting, asymmetry, or rotation (more relevant for anatomical implants)
• Rippling or implant visibility: more likely with thin tissue coverage or certain implant types
• Implant rupture: implants are not lifetime devices; rupture can occur over time. Silicone ruptures may be “silent” and detected on imaging.
• Need for future surgery: some patients require revision surgery later due to ageing changes, implant-related issues, or preference changes

Breastfeeding and screening

Many people can breastfeed after augmentation, but it cannot be guaranteed. Routine breast screening remains important. If you have implants, radiology teams can use specialised mammography views and, when appropriate, ultrasound or MRI.

Preparing for surgery

A safe outcome depends on careful preparation. Before surgery, you may be advised to:

• Stop smoking and avoid nicotine for several weeks before and after surgery
• Avoid certain medications and supplements that increase bleeding risk (only with medical guidance)
• Arrange time off work and help at home for the first days
• Attend pre-operative checks and follow instructions on fasting and hygiene

If you have medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or a history of blood clots, this must be discussed early so the plan can be adjusted appropriately.

Your consultation and continuity of care

Your care begins with a detailed consultation focused on your goals, health history, and what will look and feel proportionate for you. Implant options, incision choices, and placement are explained clearly, along with expected scarring and recovery timelines.

You will have the opportunity to ask questions, review realistic outcomes, and understand the benefits and risks before deciding. After surgery, our medical team remains closely involved through scheduled follow-ups and ongoing support, so you feel informed and looked after at every stage of your treatment.

If you are considering breast augmentation, the next step is a specialist assessment to confirm suitability and create a plan that prioritises safety, natural balance, and long-term wellbeing.