Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures worldwide. Advances in implant technology, surgical techniques and patient safety have made modern breast augmentation safer and more predictable than ever before. However, patients are often faced with a huge amount of information when researching breast enlargement surgery, from implant sizes and shapes to implant placement and surgeon selection.
This guide explains everything you need to know about breast implants, how they work, whether they are safe, the different implant options available and how to choose the right surgeon for your procedure.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size, improve the shape or restore the volume of the breasts using implants. Some women choose breast augmentation because they have naturally small breasts, while others wish to restore volume lost following pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or ageing.
The procedure can improve breast fullness, create better balance between the breasts, enhance body proportions and improve confidence. Modern breast augmentation aims to achieve natural-looking results that complement the patient\'s individual anatomy.
What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants are medical devices that are placed within the breast to increase volume and improve shape. Modern implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with either silicone gel or saline solution.
Today, silicone gel implants are the most commonly used implants in cosmetic breast surgery. The silicone gel used in modern implants is often referred to as a cohesive gel, meaning it maintains its shape even if the implant shell becomes damaged.
Modern implants have undergone decades of development and are designed to feel softer, more natural and more durable than previous generations of implants.
Are Breast Implants Safe?
Breast implants are among the most extensively studied medical devices in the world. Numerous studies involving hundreds of thousands of patients have demonstrated that breast augmentation is generally safe when performed by appropriately trained surgeons using high-quality implants.
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries risks. Potential complications include bleeding, infection, implant rupture, capsular contracture, changes in nipple sensation and the possibility of future revision surgery.
Patients should also be aware of Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare condition associated primarily with certain textured implants. The risk remains extremely low, and modern implant selection has significantly reduced this concern.
Current evidence does not support a causal link between breast implants and autoimmune diseases. However, patients should discuss all potential risks and concerns with their surgeon before proceeding.
What Types of Breast Implants Are Available?
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are the most commonly used implants worldwide. They contain a cohesive silicone gel designed to mimic the feel of natural breast tissue. Most patients and surgeons prefer silicone implants because they generally provide the most natural appearance and feel.
Saline Implants
Saline implants contain sterile salt water. Although still available, they are used less frequently in the UK because they can feel firmer and may be more prone to visible rippling in slimmer patients.
Round vs Anatomical Implants
Round Implants
Round implants are the most popular implant shape used today. They provide fullness throughout the breast and can create more upper pole volume when desired. Modern round implants can still produce very natural results when selected appropriately.
Advantages include:
- Natural movement No risk of implant rotation affecting breast shape Excellent upper pole fullness Wide range of sizes and profiles
Anatomical (Teardrop) Implants
Anatomical implants are shaped to mimic the natural breast, with more fullness in the lower portion of the breast and less fullness at the top.
They may be suitable for selected patients with minimal breast tissue or specific reconstructive requirements. However, advances in modern round implants have reduced the need for anatomical implants in many cosmetic cases.
Understanding Implant Profiles
Implant profile refers to how far the implant projects forward from the chest wall.
- Low Profile: Wider implant with less projection. Moderate Profile: Balanced width and projection. High Profile: Greater projection with narrower width. Extra High Profile: Maximum projection for selected patients.
The correct profile depends on chest width, breast dimensions, skin quality and desired appearance. Implant profile is often just as important as implant volume when planning surgery.
What Implant Size Should You Choose?
One of the most common questions patients ask is, "What implant size should I choose?"
Implant size is measured in cubic centimetres (cc). Sizes commonly range from approximately 200cc to over 500cc, although larger and smaller implants are available.
Rather than focusing solely on cup size, modern breast augmentation planning considers:
- Chest width Existing breast tissue Breast shape Skin elasticity Body proportions Patient goals
The goal is to select an implant that creates https://deansgatehospital.com/plastic-surgery/breast/breast-augmentation/ a balanced result while respecting the patient's anatomy. An implant that is too large may increase the risk of long-term complications, tissue stretching and implant visibility.
Where Are Breast Implants Placed?
The position of the implant is known as the implant plane. There are several different options.
Subglandular Placement
Subglandular implants are placed above the chest muscle and beneath the breast tissue.
Advantages include:
- Less discomfort after surgery Faster recovery No animation deformity
However, this technique may not be suitable for very slim patients with limited breast tissue.
Submuscular Placement
Submuscular placement positions the implant beneath the pectoral muscle.
Advantages include:
- Additional soft tissue coverage Reduced risk of visible rippling Natural upper breast contour
Disadvantages may include increased discomfort and movement of the implant during muscle contraction.
Dual Plane Placement
Dual plane augmentation is one of the most commonly used techniques today. The upper portion of the implant is covered by muscle while the lower portion sits beneath the breast gland.
This approach combines many of the advantages of both subglandular and submuscular placement and often provides excellent long-term results.
Preservation Techniques
Newer techniques such as Motiva Preservé® aim to preserve breast tissue and minimise disruption to anatomy while creating a natural enhancement. These techniques are suitable for selected patients and represent an exciting development in breast augmentation surgery.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, but they do not need to be routinely replaced after a specific number of years. Many modern implants remain intact and perform well for 15 to 20 years or longer.
Replacement is usually only required if complications develop or if a patient wishes to change implant size or shape.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Most patients return to normal daily activities within one to two weeks. Swelling and tightness are common during the early recovery period and gradually improve over several weeks.
Exercise is usually restricted for approximately four to six weeks, depending on the surgical technique used.
Final results continue to develop as swelling settles and implants soften into their natural position.
How to Choose the Right Breast Augmentation Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make.
When researching a surgeon, consider the following:
- Is the surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery? Are they members of professional organisations such as BAAPS or BAPRAS? How many breast augmentations do they perform each year? Can they show a large portfolio of before and after photographs? Do they offer a range of implant options and techniques? Do they discuss risks openly and honestly? Is surgery performed in a fully regulated hospital? Do they provide comprehensive aftercare?
Patients should never feel pressured into surgery. A good surgeon will spend time understanding your goals, educating you about your options and helping you make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
Breast Augmentation remains one of the most effective procedures for enhancing breast shape and volume. Modern implants are safer and more advanced than ever before, offering patients a wide range of options to achieve natural and long-lasting results.
The key to a successful outcome lies in careful planning, selecting the right implant, choosing the most appropriate implant placement and working with an experienced specialist plastic surgeon. By taking the time to research your options and seek expert advice, you can make an informed decision and achieve results that complement your body and your goals.