Quick fire questions: Breast augmentation surgery

Esteemed consultant plastic surgeon Mr Simon Heppel OBE answers your commonly asked questions about breast augmentation surgery. 

Who is the ideal candidate for breast augmentation surgery?

The ideal candidate for breast augmentation surgery is a non-smoker with elastic skin, who has a desire to increase the volume of her breasts.

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What happens during the procedure?

Breast Augmentation surgery is a very common and successful operation. It is normally carried out under a general anaesthetic, as a day case and has minimal downtime.

The implant is usually placed over the muscle under the breast tissue but in some cases, underneath the muscle is more appropriate. Before undergoing surgery, your consultant will advise which is the most appropriate position, based on your personal circumstances.

The procedure usually takes around an hour and you are able to go home one to two hours later.

At my clinic and various others, dissolving sutures and no drains are used as part of the procedure. As a result, nothing needs to be removed subsequently.

Following surgery, you will be placed in a post-op support bra which ensures your comfort and helps to support healing.

What is the aftercare?

You will usually have a follow-up with a nurse a week after the procedure has taken place. This is to check the wounds and offer some lymphatic drainage massage.

You will also usually see your consultant again after three months. It is advisable that patients do not undertake any heavy exercise for about six weeks after surgery. In spite of this, you are able to return to most activity much sooner than this.

What complications are associated with the operation?

Most patients are extremely pleased with their outcome, however, it’s important to recognise that complications can occasionally occur.

At your pre-op consultation, your consultant will discuss any potential complications in detail, to ensure that you have a complete, comprehensive knowledge of the procedure and the risks that it entails.

It should be noted that augmentation alone is suitable for most women. However, sometimes if the tissues are a little too loose, your surgeon may recommend that you combine the augmentation with an uplift. This is called augmentation mastopexy and takes slightly longer to perform though recovery is similar.

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants don’t need to be removed or replaced, solely due to the length of time since your surgery. They can last a lifetime, although time and gravity will have impact on your shape. As a result, you may wish to undergo further surgery to amend or improve this.

When considering breast surgery, it is best to book a consultation with a consultant surgeon at the prospective clinic to discuss your specific circumstance and desire.

If you are considering a breast augmentation and would like to discuss your options with Mr Heppell, do not hesitate to book a consultation through his Top Doctors profile today.