Breast

Choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a big decision. There are lots of things you will have to decide before undergoing surgery – which surgeon will perform the procedure, which clinic you will go to, how long you will need to take off work. However, one of the biggest and perhaps most exciting decisions you will have to make is what size implants are you going to have?

Deciding on the size of your implants can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. You may have a general idea about what cup size you wish to be, but how does that correlate with the size of the implants?

Fortunately, before attending your consultation and sizing appointments, you can help to get an idea of what size implants you want. You can do this by undertaking the rice test.

What is the rice test?

The rice test can help you figure out what size implant you would like and what would suit your body. The rice test allows you to measure out the volume of the implant. Breast implant volume is listed as “cc”, otherwise known as cubic centimetres.

The undertake the rice test, you will need uncooked rice, measuring cups or scales, stockings and a fitted sports bra.

How to do the rice test

• Cut your nylon stockings: you’ll want to use the foot portion of the stocking.
• Measure the rice: while measuring the rice, keep in mind that one ounce or 1/8 of a cup of rice is the equivalent of 30cc. 1/4 cup is 59 cc, 1/2 is 118 cc, and 1 cup is 236 cc.
• Fill the stocking: pour the rice into the stocking and tie off the open end of the stocking. This is your makeshift implant.
• Try the implant: put your sports bra on and put the implants in place. This will give you a good idea of how big your chosen implants will look on your body frame.

Doing the rice test allows you to increase and decrease the amount of rice you have put in the stockings. This will give you a good idea of what size suits your frame and what size implant you may wish to have.

However, it is important to note that the rice test isn’t the be all and end all when it comes to choosing the size of your breast implants.

Before you are set on one particular implant size, there are a few things you should remember:

Placement of the implant 

The actual breast implant will be placed either above or below the muscle, with your existing breast tissue above the implant. In the rice test, the rice is above the existing breast tissue. This will alter your final appearance.

Profile of the implant

You don’t just have to decide on the size of the implant, you will need to decide on the shape, placement and profile of the implant too. The profile of the implant cannot be exactly replicated with the rice test. High profile implants will project forward more and have a smaller base, while low profile implants will have a smaller base.

Texture

The rice test can help to give you a good idea of the size of an implant, but it won’t help in regards to the texture of the implant. Keep in mind that implants will feel far more natural and will sit against your body far easier than rice will.

The rice test can give you an indication of what implant size you are interested in having. However, keep an open mind. If you have picked a size that is particularly large for your body frame, your surgeon may suggest a smaller size. In some instances, you may not have enough skin, or if the implant is too large the edges of the implant may be visible. Attending a consultation with a certified surgeon and having a sizing session will help you decide on the best implant size for you.

Are you interested in breast augmentation? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery specialises in. Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation. 

Deciding to undergo a breast reduction can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. After all, there are numerous benefits to undergoing this procedure. Some women will be able to lose weight to reduce the size of the breasts and fix any symptoms and issues they have. However, for others, this is not the case, and surgery becomes one of the more appealing options.

So what are the signs that you’re ready for a breast reduction?

1. You are over 18

Many women will develop large breasts before they are 18. While it may seem appealing to have a breast reduction as soon as possible, most plastic surgeons will not offer this procedure until you are at least 18 years old. Some surgeons will recommend waiting until you are 20 before undergoing a breast reduction. Before you are 18, your body will still be developing and changing. With more time, your physique may change and your body may appear more in proportion. Because of these reasons, it is important to wait until you are 18 before you undergo a breast reduction.

2. You are experiencing back and neck pain

One of the main reasons women elect to undergo a breast reduction is to reduce physical pain, including in the neck and back. The excess weight caused by the large breasts can cause posture problems, which can result in you experiencing pain in both the back and neck. This can have a significant negative impact on your daily life.

3. You experience headaches

Back and neck pain isn’t the only physical pain larger breasts can cause – they can also be responsible for headaches and migraines. Larger breasts can cause muscle strain, which then causes you to experience headaches and migraines.

4. You are undertaking the surgery for yourself

No matter what plastic surgery you are thinking about undergoing, you need to be doing it for the right reasons. Your surgeon will only proceed if they know you are having the surgery for the right reasons. The surgeon may refuse to let you undergo the procedure if they suspect you are doing it to please someone else or for their benefit. Make sure you know exactly why you want this procedure and whether or not you are doing it for the right reasons before you attend any consultations.

5. Your breasts impact on your self-esteem and confidence

Often when you are uncomfortable with your body, it can have a negative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. Having larger breasts can often attract unwanted attention and judgement from others. You may feel uncomfortable in certain types of clothing or find it difficult to find flattering clothes for your figure.

6. You have difficulty completing everyday tasks

Larger breasts don’t just cause physical pain – sometimes they can cause everyday tasks to become increasingly more difficult. Many women will find exercise will become more difficult, and sports bras may provide inadequate support. Having a breast reduction can help to remove excess weight and bulkiness, allowing you to partake in exercises and physical activity more freely.

7. You are at a healthy weight

A breast reduction is performed under a general anaesthetic, which means you will not be awake throughout the duration of the procedure. As a result of this, it is a requirement that you have a healthy BMI prior to undergoing this procedure. The procedure may not be offered if you have a BMI above 30.

If you are struggling to lose weight, your surgeon may be able to offer you weight loss tips.

8. You can take enough time off for recovery

Breast reduction is considered an invasive procedure and therefore requires a recovery period. Bruising and swelling can last up to four weeks. You will also have to avoid any strenuous physical activities for six weeks. If you have a physically demanding job you may have to consider how much time you will need to take off before it is safe for you to return. If you have an office job you may be able to return to work sooner. Your surgeon will be able to tell you how much time they recommend you take off work; you may need to take two weeks off to recover. If you are unable to take the necessary amount of time off work you may wish to consider whether or not it is the right time to undergo a breast reduction.

9. You understand the risks and have realistic expectations

To be considered an appropriate candidate for surgery, you will need to have a full understanding of the risks involved with your surgery. You will also need to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. During your consultation, make sure to ask all the necessary questions so you feel comfortable to proceed with surgery.

Do you feel like you are ready to have a breast reduction? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation.

It is a big decision choosing to have breast augmentation. However, it is a procedure which involves a lot of choices before you even go under the knife. These choices will help determine what type of breast implants you will have and how your breasts will appear after surgery.

So what kind of breast implant is right for you?

Silicone vs saline

Your implants will be made of a particular material – either silicone or saline.

Silicone implants are made up of a thick gel. This material most closely mimics the natural texture of the breasts. Meanwhile, saline implants are made up of sterilised salt water. These implants are inserted empty and are then filled.

At Centre for Surgery, we currently only use silicone implants which are approved by the UK medicines and healthcare products regulatory agency.

Shape

There are two different shapes you will have to pick from. Your two options are:

• Teardrop: this implant will be smaller at the top and bigger at the base. This is preferable for those who are wishing to achieve a more natural appearance.
• Round: this implant is spherical in appearance and will help to add fullness to the top of the breasts. This is ideal for those who are wishing to add more volume to the cleavage area and are wishing to correct any sagging. You will also have to choose a profile for this implant, which ranges from low to high. This will alter the appearance of the breasts and how natural they look. The higher the profile, the less natural the breasts will appear.

Texture

There are multiple options that you will have to consider when deciding on the texture of the implants. The options for texture are:

• Smooth: smooth implants will have a slippery, soft texture and will appear glossy on the outside. When the smooth implants are inserted they are able to move around within the breast pocket. Smooth implants generally result in a more natural look and feel.
• Textured: textured implants will have more of a coarse surface. This is designed to stick to the body’s tissue, which then holds the implant in place. This means the implant will never get repositioned. Teardrop implants are generally always textured.

Placement

You will not only have to decide on what the implant itself looks like, you will also need to decide where exactly in the breasts the implants will be placed.

The options for implant placement are:

• Sub-glandular placement: the implant is placed between the breast tissue and the chest muscle. This is considered to be a less invasive procedure and therefore gives you a more comfortable and shorter recovery period. This placement can help you to achieve a larger cleavage area, and the implants may appear to look less natural.
• Sub-muscular placement: the implant is placed under the pectoral chest muscle. As the implant is covered by both the muscle and the breast tissue, implants in this placement generally appear more natural looking. However, the implant will sit higher until the muscle relaxes, which will take around four to six weeks. This placement will also result in a longer recovery period as the muscle will also need to recover.

Size

You will also have to decide how big the actual implants will be.

Breast implants are measured in what is referred to as CC – otherwise known as cubic centimetres. There is a large range of sizes available for breast implants, ranging from 80CC to 800CC. The larger the number, the larger the breast implant will be.

There are several factors which will need to be considered if you are thinking about getting particularly large implants. You will have to consider your body frame and how much skin you have available. If you have a smaller frame and breasts, you may not be suitable for very large implants. If the implants are too large, the edges of the implant may be visible. Your surgeon may advise you against getting implants which are too large for you. If you are interested in having larger sized implants, you may need to get smaller implants originally, which will help to stretch the skin. Once the skin is stretched, you can get these implants replaced with a larger size.

It is often a good idea to have an idea about what size implants you want before going to your consultation with your surgeon. Not sure about where to start with the size of your implants? You may wish to undertake the rice test. This involves measuring rice to the same volume of the implant. One ounce of rice, or 1/8 cup, is equivalent to 30cc. Once you have measured the rice, pour it into a nylon stocking and tie the other end. You can then put on a sports bra and put the makeshift implants into place. This can help you get an idea of how a certain size of implants will look on your body.

Once you have been assessed and the surgeon has decided you are an eligible candidate for surgery, you will be able to look at and try on different size implants. Your surgeon will be able to help recommend the best size for you.

Are you interested in undergoing breast augmentation? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery specialises in. Contact us today to find out more details or to book a consultation.

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries. While you may have originally been happy with the results of your initial breast augmentation, over time your body may have changed or you may now be unhappy with the size of your implants.

Fortunately, you can reduce your breast implant size.

However, there are numerous things to consider before you undergo a breast implant replacement.

Which surgeon do I choose?

Before undergoing another cosmetic surgery, make sure you are choosing the best possible surgeon. You may not wish to return to your original surgeon – particularly if you were unhappy with the results originally, or felt pressured into getting implants which are too big.

If you’re going to choose a new surgeon, make sure you will need to choose someone who has extensive experience in breast implant replacement, rather than just breast augmentation. They will also have to be able to perform revision surgery, as they will have to analyse the work another surgeon has previously done.

Before settling for a surgeon, make sure you check their credentials – if they are in the UK they will need to be registered with GMC. You may also wish to request before and after photographs, which will be able to highlight the surgeons work and show you the results you can expect to achieve.

Breast implants may have changed

This will depend on how long ago you had your original implants in. If it has been 10 or so years since your initial operation, you will find there will be more choices now when it comes to picking your breast implants.

You will be able to decide on the texture, size, shape and profile. Your surgeon will also be able to assess your shape and help give recommendations as to the best breast implants for you to choose.

Do you need a breast lift?

A breast augmentation won’t address the problem of droopiness. You may also experience sagging if you are drastically reducing the size of your implants. If you have existing droopiness or are going to experience increased droopiness as a result of the breast reduction, your surgeon may also suggest for you to undertake a breast lift.

A breast lift will remove any excess skin and tighten the surrounding skin. This will not increase the size of the breasts, however, it will make the breasts sit higher and appear firmer and more youthful.

It is important to note that a breast lift will result in more scarring than what you would experience after a breast implant exchange. Scarring can often be a reason why women opt to avoid surgery. However, many will find the scars are worth it to be able to achieve the best results.

During your consultation, your surgeon will be able to assess your breasts, the level of existing droopiness and will be able to advise whether or not you should undergo a breast lift as well as an implant exchange.

How long has it been since your initial breast augmentation?

It is not uncommon for women to feel buyers remorse and be unhappy with the size of their implants. In the first few months following your initial breast augmentation, you will experience swelling and your body will still be adjusting to the implants. During this period your breasts may feel particularly firm and will be sitting higher. This can cause some people to feel unsatisfied with the results and think that the implants are too large.

If you have only had your breast augmentation recently, you may want to consider waiting until you consider undergoing a breast implant reduction. Once the swelling goes down and your body adjusts, you may feel happier with the size of your implants.

However, if you are unhappy with the appearance of your breasts and the implants, make sure to discuss this with your surgeon, as they will be able to offer solutions.

Are you interested in breast implant reduction? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation with one of our surgeons.

Many women who are considering undergoing breast augmentation may be hesitant because of the thought of staying overnight in a hospital.

Fortunately, at Centre for Surgery, we offer day case breast surgery in London.

What does day case surgery mean?

Centre for Surgery is an outpatient surgical clinic. This means that you will be able to return home on the same day as your procedure. You will be allowed to leave once the effects of the general anaesthetic have worn off.

What are the benefits of day case surgery?

There are numerous benefits to undergoing a procedure that is performed as a day case. These include:

• Quicker recovery time: you won’t have to spend any time recovering in a hospital bed. Instead, you will be able to return home and recover in your own bed. This will allow you to be in a familiar environment where you will be able to get a more comfortable night’s sleep.
• Lower infection risk: because you aren’t staying in a hospital overnight, your risk of gaining an infection significantly lowers.
• Keeps costs low: going home the same day means you will not have to pay to stay in a hospital, so the cost of your procedure will be lower.
• Personalised service: from your first consultation to your surgery to your recovery appointments, you will be able to see the same surgeon and patient consultant.

How can breast surgery be performed as a day case?

Prior to attending for your surgery, you will be required to attend a consultation with one of our breast surgeons. This will generally take place at least two weeks before your surgical date. This consultation will allow you to discuss your reasons for wishing to undergo breast augmentation. You will be assessed to see whether or not you are an eligible candidate for this procedure. This will include discussing your medical history. The surgeon will also be able to help you choose the size, shape, texture and placement of your implants.

Breast augmentation at Centre for Surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic we pioneered known as TIVA. Unlike other forms of general anaesthetic, TIVA does not involve the use of volatile gases. It also allows you to wake up much faster following your procedure, and you will be able to leave quickly after your surgery. This anaesthetic has allowed us to perform breast augmentation as a day case.

Centre for Surgery also uses the ClearField™ technique, which ensures the surgical area remains dry and blood-free. This technique helps to lower the risk of infection and complications during and following the procedure.

What is involved in breast surgery?

Prior to surgery, you will be given the TIVA anaesthetic, so you will not be awake throughout the whole procedure.

Surgery will involve an incision beneath or below the breast. The surgeon will then use the Keller funnel technique to insert the implant either behind or in front of the muscle. The Keller funnel involves a plastic funnel which the implant is inserted into. This is also called the ‘no touch’ technique, as the use of the funnel eliminates the need for the surgeon to touch the implant. This helps to lower the risk of bacteria getting onto the implant and lowers the risk of capsular contracture occurring.

Once the implant is in place, the incision will be stitched shut and covered with a dressing.

The whole procedure should take between one to two hours to complete.

What is involved in the recovery period from day case breast surgery?

As previously mentioned, you will be able to return home the same day as your breast augmentation procedure, once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off. You will need to have someone who will be able to drive you home from the clinic, or you can arrange for a chaperone.

It is normal to experience some bruising, redness and swelling around the incision site. You may wish to take pain medication during this time frame.

You will be given a compression garment which you will need to wear. This will help to reduce any swelling and ensure your breasts stay in the best shape possible.

You will need to avoid any strenuous physical activity, including any heavy lifting, for four weeks. After this time frame, you will be able to resume light activities. You can resume your usual day-to-day activities after a total of six weeks. You will also have to avoid driving for at least one week.

Are you interested in undergoing breast surgery as a day case at Centre for Surgery? Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation. 

One of the most popular procedures is a breast augmentation. However, a big part of breast augmentation is the recovery period. It can often be an overwhelming period, as you’ll generally feel a huge range of emotions. To help overcome any nerves you have about the procedure and the recovery period, it can help to do research and know what exactly will occur in the recovery period.

So what can you expect after a breast augmentation?

Immediately after surgery

Breast augmentation is performed under a general anaesthetic, so you will not be awake for the procedure. At Centre for Surgery, our general anaesthetic is known as ClearSleep™. Unlike other types of anaesthetic, ClearSleep™ does not rely on the use of any breathing machines or tubes, removing the risk of damage occurring to your throat and teeth. The anaesthetic also ensures you will be able to wake up straight away once your procedure is complete. You will not have to stay in the hospital overnight, you will be able to return home once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off.

Your surgeon will also give you post-operative care instructions which you should make sure to follow. This will ensure you avoid any complications or injuries and will achieve the best results possible. You may also be given medication which you will need to take.

You will have a compression garment which you will need to wear following the procedure. This will not only help to support the breasts but will also help avoid fluid build up and reduce swelling. You will need to wear this for around four weeks at both day and night.

1-3 days after surgery

It is normal to experience some mild pain and discomfort. You may wish to take pain medication to help alleviate any symptoms.

You will have to avoid any strenuous physical activities. However, you will be encouraged to undertake light activities such as walking.

It is important to sleep on your back rather than on your sides and front.

Around the two day point, you will be able to have a shower.

One week following surgery

You will be able to start resuming your usual daily routine. After one week you will be able to return to work. If you are in a physically demanding job or you do not feel you have recovered enough you may wish to take more time off work.

During this period you should also attend a post-op appointment with your surgeon. This will allow the surgeon to assess how your recovery period is going. If you have any concerns or have had any problems these will be able to be addressed. Dressings will be removed during this meeting and the stitches will be checked.

Two weeks following surgery

After two weeks you will begin to feel more normal. You will be able to complete most activities without feeling any pain, however, you will still need to avoid any vigorous physical activities.

You will be able to take baths if you wish to do so.

Six weeks following surgery

Six weeks is the end of the recovery period. You will no longer have to wear a compression garment, and you will be able to resume more vigorous physical activities. You may still wish to avoid any chest exercises until you feel safe and comfortable to do so.

The scar where the incision took place will start to fade from red and become less prominent in size and colour. The scar will continue to fade and improve in appearance over the next 18 months. You will be given tips by your surgeon and the medical team on how to care for the scar and to make it less noticeable.

Are you interested in undergoing breast augmentation? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultaiton with one of our surgeons.  

Recovery is often one of the biggest things we think about when we are considering plastic surgery. What exactly is it going to feel like, how long will it take to recover, how long will you need to take off work? There can often seem like there is an endless list of questions to consider before undergoing any surgical procedure. Knowing exactly what to expect from a recovery period can help to ensure you have a quick, smooth recovery and may help to alleviate any nerves.

Returning home

After having your breast augmentation procedure, you will be able to return home on the same day once the effects of the ClearSleep™ anaesthetic have worn off. You will not be able to drive yourself home and will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult or organise a chaperone. You will be given a compression garment to wear during the recovery period. This will help to keep your breasts in the best shape, as well as to decrease any swelling.

Pain and discomfort

It is normal to experience some bruising, swelling and mild pain and discomfort. This should last for a few days. The amount of pain felt will vary depending on the surgical method and the placement of the implants. However, most people will only experience mild pain. During the first few days, you may wish to take pain medication to help alleviate any symptoms.

You will find you may need assistance during the first initial days after surgery, as you will be unable to drive, and may need assistance with preparing meals and getting dressed. You should generally be able to drive after the first 48 hours, or when you stop taking pain medication that may impact your driving skills and reflexes.

Follow up appointments

Within the initial recovery period, you will have to attend the clinic in order for the surgeon to assess you. This allows the surgeon to see if you are recovering well and gives you the opportunity to ask any questions.

It is important to remember to recognise if the pain and discomfort you are feeling is normal. If you have any pain, discomfort, swelling, bruising, redness or heat that is concerning, make sure to contact the surgeon. Centre for Surgery includes 12 months aftercare in our procedures, so you will be able to contact the surgeon if you ever have concerns.

Exercise

You will need to ensure you avoid strenuous physical activity, including heavy lifting, for at least 10 days. After this time you should be able to begin to resume light activities. You may still have to avoid upper body exercises until one month after surgery.

You will be informed of a massage technique which you can do at home to help speed up recovery and help you achieve natural looking results. This will be particularly important for those who had submuscular implants.

Work

You may need to take up to two weeks off work in order to fully recover and gain more mobility. The amount of time off work will greatly vary depending on your own recovery and what type of job you have. Some people may be able to return to work fairly quickly, while others may feel the need to take a longer period of time off work.

Sleep

It is important to ensure you get enough rest and sleep throughout the recovery period. To help alleviate any swelling, you will need to ensure you do not sleep on your side or front – make sure to sleep on your back. It is recommended that you sleep with a few pillows to stay propped upright.

Smoking

You will need to ensure that you stop smoking at least two weeks prior to your breast augmentation, and continue to avoid smoking throughout the recovery period. Smoking can have numerous negative effects on the surgery and the recovery period. During recovery, smoking can extend the recovery period and increase swelling and bruising.

It is important to remember that the recovery period will be different for every person. There are numerous factors that will alter the recovery period – your pain threshold, the method of surgery, the placement of the implants, what type of employment you do, to name a few. However, following your surgeons’ advice will ensure that your recovery period will be sped up and you will be back to your usual day-to-day life in no time.

Are you interested in breast augmentation? Centre for Surgery are breast specialists. Contact us today to find out more information about breast augmentation, or to book a consultation with one of our surgeons.