Breast Augmentation is one of the most popular and transformative cosmetic surgeries performed today, and it’s not hard to see why. For many, it’s an opportunity to enhance physical appearance, restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or boost self-confidence. But, as with any major procedure, it’s essential to fully understand what breast augmentation involves before making the decision to go ahead. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before undergoing breast augmentation at Bella Vou.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation, also known as Breast Enlargement or a ‘Boob Job’ is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of your breasts and corrects any asymmetry.
Bella Vou provides Breast Augmentation by expert, accredited cosmetic surgeons. Breast Enlargement can lift and restore breasts that have sagged or shrunk following childbirth, enhance the cleavage of women who are unhappy with the size and shape of their breasts, reconstruct breasts following cancer surgery, and ultimately, help boost wellbeing and self-esteem. This is typically achieved through the use of implants or fat transfer.
Types of Breast Implants:
- Saline Implants: Filled with a sterile saltwater solution, saline implants are inserted empty and then filled once they’re in place. They are adjustable, so if needed, the size can be altered post-surgery.
- Silicone Implants: Filled with a silicone gel, these implants provide a more natural feel and look. They are often preferred by patients who want a more lifelike result.
- Gummy Bear Implants: A type of silicone implant, gummy bear implants have a more cohesive gel that retains its shape even if the implant shell is broken, offering a unique blend of safety and aesthetics.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for breast augmentation. The best candidates typically:
- Are in good overall health
- Have fully developed breasts
- Have realistic expectations and specific goals
- Are bothered by the size, shape, or asymmetry of their breasts
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
During your consultation, we’ll assess your body and listen to your goals, ensuring that your surgery will provide the best results for your unique frame and aspirations.
The Consultation Process
Your journey starts with being well informed and there’s no better way than to have a private one-to-one consultation with a cosmetic plastic surgeon to understand what results to expect from the entire process.
Uniquely to Bella Vou, your consultation with one of our Consultant Plastic Surgeons, Doctors or Specialists will be entirely complementary, unlike most other clinics.
At Bella Vou, the consultation is the first step in your breast augmentation journey. During this session, we will:
- Discuss your desired outcomes and understand your goals.
- Examine your breasts to evaluate factors such as breast tissue, skin quality, and body type.
- Help you choose the ideal implant type, size, and placement (over or under the muscle).
- Answer any questions about the surgery, recovery, and expected results.
Your private consultation will leave you fully informed and comfortable with your choices.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery
Before Surgery:
You’ll be given individual pre-operative advice to reduce your chance of bleeding or infection and support your healthy recovery.
It’s important to let your surgeon know if you’re on any prescription or over-the-counter medications. You may be asked to stop taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory tablets, which can increase the risk of bruising. It’s also important to stop smoking cigarettes and e-cigarettes before and after surgery because they can disrupt the healing process.
The Bella Vou team will let you know when to fast in preparation for your general anaesthetic, as soon as they’ve set your operation time.
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be welcomed to Bella Vou, given a gown to wear and escorted to the state-of-the-art operating theatre.
During Surgery:
Breast Augmentation is performed under general anaesthetic. It is often done as a day case. However, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight so that the team can monitor your recovery.
The surgeon will make an incision in the crease under the breast. The positioning ensures the scar is discreet and hidden. The surgeon will insert the chosen implants. They can be placed between the breasts and the pectoral muscle or behind the chest muscle. The surgeon will discuss the options before surgery so that you choose the right placement for your body, and the look you want to achieve.
Your consultant will stitch the incision closed with absorbable sutures that don’t need to be removed. Finally, the wound will be covered with a simple dressing.
After Surgery:
You will be able to go home on the day of the procedure. There are no drains or drips. The staff at Bella Vou will offer analgesia, carefully monitor your recovery, and provide support every step of the way.
Some pain, swelling, and bruising are normal following Breast Augmentation surgery. You will be given a compression bra to support your breasts, reduce swelling, and keep you comfortable as you heal.
After one week, the nurse and wound care specialist will check your breasts, the scars, and your general wellbeing. The soreness and swelling will gradually settle over 2-3 weeks. After two weeks, you will be able to reintroduce normal activities progressively. However, excess arm movement, exertion, and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
At around six weeks, your surgeon will check your progress and ensure that you are healthy and happy with your results. You should be back to your usual routine by this stage. At around three months, the breasts will have softened, and you should be able to see the final results. The Bella Vou staff are always available if you have questions or worries at any time.
Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally safe, like all surgeries, there are potential risks, including:
- Infection: Always a risk with surgery, but antibiotics and proper care minimize this.
- Implant Rupture: Silicone and saline implants can occasionally rupture, but the chances are low with proper care.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when scar tissue around the implant hardens, causing the breast to feel firm. This can happen to anyone, but the chances are low with proper care.
Choosing a skilled surgeon significantly reduces the risk of complications, and at Bella Vou, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Gallery | Before and After Breast Augmentation:
We understand you’ll want to know as much information as possible before you commit to starting your breast augmentation journey with Bella Vou.
The patients you see below have given their written consent to share their surgical outcomes and journeys, so you can see for yourself how breast augmentation surgery has changed their lives.
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Breast Augmentation Via Fat Transfer with Breast Uplift
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Breast Augmentation via Fat Transfer
Conclusion
Breast augmentation can be a life-changing procedure, giving you the enhanced look and confidence you’ve always wanted. With the right surgeon, the right implants, and a clear understanding of the process, you can achieve your goals and enjoy long-term results.
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Last Updated: February 3, 2025
Published On: January 3, 2025