If you’re wondering ‘should I get a boob job’ you’ll not be alone. This is a common cosmetic procedure that lots of people have considered.

Also known as breast augmentation surgery, this surgery is designed to improve the size and shape of breasts with implants. While the surgery is relatively straightforward, factors such as implant type, placement, and your choice of surgeon can influence both the outcome and the recovery process.

That’s why understanding your options and how they may affect your results is important – both of which we’ll be covering in this blog post.

For many women, breast augmentation can be a transformative experience, increasing self-confidence and self-esteem. However, it’s a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. With more than 40 years of combined experience in aesthetic and cosmetic surgery, our expert surgeons are here to provide insights into the procedure.

As one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the UK, breast augmentation is something many people have considered. This guide will give you key information, from the surgical process to recovery, so you can make an informed decision.

What’s Involved In Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes between one to two hours, depending on the specific needs of the patient.

The procedure begins with the surgeon making a small incision beneath the breast, through which the implant is inserted. The implant may be placed either between the breast tissue and chest muscle or behind the chest muscle, but this will be discussed in detail during your pre-surgical consultation.

Once the implants are positioned, the incisions are stitched closed, cleaned, and covered with dressings. While most patients go home the same day, an overnight hospital stay may occasionally be needed for monitoring.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation can achieve several cosmetic goals including:

  • Improving or altering the shape of the breasts
  • Adding volume to breasts that might be considered as too small or disproportionate to the rest of the body
  • Providing symmetry to uneven breasts
  • Restoring a more youthful and feminine appearance to breasts that have lost volume or elasticity as a result of ageing
  • Increasing breast fullness and height after substantial weight loss or pregnancy

One of the biggest benefits of breast implant surgery is the positive impact it has on your mental health and overall self-esteem.

surgeon working on a patients breasts

Factors to Consider Before Getting a Boob Job

As mentioned earlier, a boob job isn’t a procedure that should be rushed into. Even if you feel strongly that you would like larger breasts, it’s important to take time to consider the following information.

Research surgeons

You want to get to know the person that will be performing the surgery and check their qualifications. Every clinic offering cosmetic surgery should be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Individual surgeons must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and reputable plastic surgeons will often be registered with British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) and / or BAAPS. Our lead cosmetic and plastic surgeon, Mr Ali-Khan, is a full member of BAAPS (British Associated of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), BAPRAS, and registered as a specialist plastic surgeon with the GMC.

It’s always recommended that patients speak with their surgeon in-person before undergoing the procedure. This gives you an opportunity to ask important questions that relate to their experience, the clinic and its facilities, surgical techniques, and how to prepare.

[Design to create small profile of Ahmed taken from: https://lasecosmetic.com/about-lase-cosmetic-surgery-newcastle/ ]

Consider different types of implants

Most breast implants in the UK are made from silicone. Again, a consultation is often most effective in revealing what type of implant will achieve the best results for the patient.

LASE Cosmetic are proud to be partnered with Motiva Health to provide innovative breast implant options.

This includes the Motiva Round PLUS, Ergonomix, and Ergonomix2®. The range of Motiva implants available allows patients to select the size, shape, and feel they want.

Motiva continue to sport a complication rate below 1%, with a minimal incision made during the procedure. Our other supplier is PERLE by GC Aesthetics, which utilise Emunomic™ Breast Tissue Dynamic Gel to prevent wrinkling. These implants are also optimised for safety and comfort.

Think about associated risks

As is the case with most kinds of invasive surgery, boob jobs carry certain risks associated with the procedure and the implants. This can include:

  • Blood clots.
  • Troublesome scarring including internally, known as capsular contracture.
  • Implant changing shape within the body – rippling, creases, rupturing.
  • Sensation issues in the nipples.
  • Infection or allergic reaction.
  • Implant illness and growths such as ALCL.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

Post-operative care is important for a smooth recovery and for helping patients regain their strength so they can return to everyday activities.

Even with minimally invasive procedures such as breast augmentation, the body needs time to heal. At LASE, we’ll create a recovery plan that will outline how long you need to rest and recommend strategies to minimise complications such as infection, internal bleeding, bruising, and sleep disruption.

Recovery care varies based on the surgery and individual factors. Common types of post-operative care include:

Day Surgery / Home Care: Most patients can recover at home with guidance from a medical professional. This option involves minimal disruption and typically includes recommended medications and strategies to support healing.

Hospital Care: For patients who need closer monitoring, hospital care may be necessary. This could involve a short stay for in-person care, such as wound cleaning, pain management, or physical therapy.

How Long Does Breast Augmentation Recovery Week by Week

Before undergoing breast augmentation, you put a lot of effort and time into choosing the right surgeon and the right type of implants.

However, planning your recovery is just as important to achieving the best results. Proper recovery helps minimise risks and also improves the final outcome. The typical recovery timeline for breast augmentation is as follows:

  • Immediately after surgery: You will be able to move around soon after the procedure and will likely be sent home the same day.
  • 1-2 weeks: Stitches at the incision sites will either dissolve or be removed. During this period, it’s important to avoid driving, and most patients are advised to take at least two weeks off work.
  • 4-6 weeks: You’ll be able to resume most everyday activities. However, heavy lifting and intense exercise should be approached cautiously.
  • 2-3 months: By this time, the breasts should begin to feel more natural, and surgical scars will start to fade.

Your surgeon will provide personalised recommendations during your recovery, including advice on diet, activities to avoid, and habits that promote healing.

You may also be advised to wear a supportive sports bra for a few months post-surgery to help in the healing process. In some cases, the surgeon will provide a specially designed bra for this.

woman sleeping on her back

Sleeping After Breast Augmentation Surgery

Sleeping posture is a major consideration after breast augmentation surgery as it can pose a risk of the breasts falling out of position.

As a result, you need to sleep on your back, which can be difficult for those who aren’t accustomed to this position.

That said, there are some steps you can take to ease yourself into sleeping on your back, including:

  • Using pillows to position the body. This might take some experimenting to find a position that’s comfortable.
  • Placing pillows or other soft items either side of your head to keep it in place.
  • Placing a pillow under the knees in order to maintain back alignment.
  • Roll back to your back when you notice yourself going over onto your side or stomach.

Read ‘How to sleep after breast augmentation surgery’ for greater insight.

Breast Augmentation FAQS

Below we’re answering some frequently asked questions regarding breast augmentation, helping you with your decision.

How many sizes can you go up with breast augmentation?

Many women looking for breast enlargement want to increase their size by one or two cup sizes. Larger implants are possible depending on your body shape and other factors. The right implant size and shape will be discussed with your surgeon during your consultation to ensure they align with your goals and are safe for your body.

Do you still need breast screening with implants?

Breast implants don’t prevent breast cancer, so if you’re eligible for breast screening, it’s important to have regular mammograms. Mammograms are safe for implants, but you should inform the technician so they can adjust the procedure to ensure as much breast tissue as possible is visible.

What other kinds of breast surgeries are there?

At LASE Cosmetic, breast augmentation is just one of the many breast and chest treatments we offer. If size isn’t the issue, but rather breast positioning or asymmetry, our specialists can provide solutions such as breast lifts or asymmetry surgery. A one-to-one consultation will help determine the best option based on your goals and needs.

Should I Get A Boob Job: Your Guide to Breast Augmentation

At LASE Cosmetic, we provide high-quality aesthetic and cosmetic surgery in Newcastle, with a focus on patient satisfaction and safety.

Whether you’re considering breast augmentation or exploring other breast and chest treatments, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Everyone deserves to feel confident and comfortable in their own body, and we’re here to help you achieve that.

If you’re ready to take the next step, book a consultation. For any questions about our services, surgical or non-surgical, feel free to reach out to us directly.

Need Help Deciding Which Treatment Is Right For You?

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