How do Breast Implants Work?

Understanding Breast Augmentation: A Comprehensive Guide

Breast augmentation, a highly sought-after cosmetic procedure in the United Kingdom, primarily focuses on enhancing the size, shape, and overall appearance of a woman’s breasts. This procedure involves the careful insertion of implants into the breasts. These implants are designed to increase the volume and improve the contour of the breasts, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and fuller appearance.

The process of breast augmentation caters to a variety of personal needs and aesthetic desires. Women opt for this surgery for numerous reasons, such as enhancing breast size for a more balanced figure, restoring breast volume lost due to weight fluctuations or post-pregnancy changes, and even for reconstructive purposes following mastectomy.

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How long does a breast augmentation take?

Breast augmentation is a relatively swift surgical procedure, typically completed within 60 to 90 minutes. This timeframe includes the careful placement of the breast implants and ensuring symmetry and desired aesthetic outcomes. The surgery is conducted under general anaesthesia, ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

Given its efficient duration, breast augmentation is classified as a day-case surgery. This means that you won’t need to stay overnight in the hospital. Our recovery protocols are designed so that you can return home on the same day of the surgery. However, it’s essential to have someone available to drive you home and assist you immediately after the procedure, as the effects of general anaesthesia may linger for a few hours.

While the surgery itself is quick, the total time spent at our medical facility might be longer. This includes pre-operative preparations, such as meeting with the surgical team, undergoing any last-minute evaluations, and post-operative recovery time in the facility to ensure you are ready to go home safely.

Essential Aftercare for Breast Augmentation: Steps for a Smooth Recovery

After undergoing breast augmentation, the aftercare process is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful recovery. Here’s what it typically involves:

1. Wearing Surgical Dressings and a Supportive Bra: Immediately after the surgery, you will be provided with surgical dressings over the incision sites. Alongside these dressings, a specially designed supportive surgical bra is given. This bra is essential as it aids in the healing process, helps to minimize swelling, and supports your new breast contours.
2. Limited Physical Activity: Post-surgery, it’s vital to minimize the use of your arms and chest. Excessive movement or strain in these areas can impact the healing process and the positioning of the implants. Therefore, activities that involve lifting, stretching, or strenuous exercise should be avoided in the initial recovery phase.
3. Assistance at Home: Since your mobility and ability to perform certain tasks will be limited, it’s advisable to arrange for a friend or family member to assist you around the house. This help is especially important for tasks that involve reaching, lifting, or any activity that could strain your chest and arms.
4. Sleeping Position: It’s recommended to sleep in a semi-upright position for a while after the surgery. This position helps in reducing postoperative swelling and can also be more comfortable when adjusting to the feel of your new implants.
5. Post-Procedure Transportation and Care: After the procedure, you should not drive yourself home. Arrange for someone to drive you home and ideally, stay with you for at least the first 24 hours post-surgery. Having someone around is not only comforting but also crucial for safety, as you may still be feeling the effects of the anaesthesia and will have limited physical capability.

Recovery Timeline for Breast Augmentation: What to Expect

The recovery period following breast augmentation is a crucial phase where your body heals and adjusts to the changes. Here’s a general timeline and guidelines for the recovery process:

1. Initial Rest Period: The first few days after returning home are critical for rest and recuperation. Your body needs this time to start the healing process effectively.
2. Wearing a Sports Bra: For at least one month post-surgery, it’s essential to wear a sports bra. This bra provides necessary support to your breasts, helps in maintaining the shape of the implants, and aids in reducing swelling.
3. Sleeping Position: You should avoid sleeping on your stomach for at least one month after the surgery. This position can put undue pressure on your breasts and potentially affect the results of the augmentation.
4. Time Off Work: Most patients need to take at least one week off from work. The exact duration may vary depending on the nature of your job, especially if it involves physical activity or strenuous tasks.
5. Driving: Refrain from driving for at least one week post-surgery. Driving can involve sudden movements or strains that might be uncomfortable or harmful during the initial recovery phase.
6. Physical Activities and Exercise: It’s crucial to avoid exercise, strenuous activities, and heavy lifting for a month following your surgery. Engaging in these activities too soon can hinder the healing process and impact the results of the augmentation.
7. Caring for Incisions: Keep the incision areas dry for a week after the procedure. This care is vital for preventing infection and ensuring proper healing of surgical wounds.
8. Sun Exposure: Protect the incision areas from direct sunlight for a year post-surgery. Sun exposure can affect scar healing and may cause the scars to become more noticeable.
9. Seeing the Final Results: While you will notice changes immediately after the surgery, it may take up to 9 months to see the full results. This period allows for the implants to settle, swelling to subside, and the tissues to heal completely.

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and it’s generally advised to plan for their replacement every 10 to 15 years. However, the exact lifespan of breast implants can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances and several other factors.

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The need for breast implant replacement within this timeframe can be influenced by personal factors unique to each individual. These include the body’s natural response to the implants, lifestyle choices, and changes in the breast tissue due to ageing or weight fluctuations.

The type of implant used also plays a significant role in determining its longevity. Advances in implant technology and materials have led to improvements in their durability, but even the most advanced implants are subject to wear and tear over time.

Regular consultations with your surgeon are essential throughout the life of your breast implants. These check-ups allow for the monitoring of the implants’ condition and help in identifying any issues that might require attention or replacement. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice on the frequency of these check-ups.

Several reasons might necessitate the replacement of implants before the typical 10-15 year mark. These reasons can include implant rupture, the development of capsular contracture (which is the formation of scar tissue around the implant), and personal cosmetic preferences, such as a desire to change the size or shape of the implants.

Potential Side Effects of Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation, being a major surgical procedure, comes with the possibility of various side effects. It’s important to be aware of these to make an informed decision and prepare adequately for the surgery and its aftermath.

Immediately following the surgery, it is normal to experience certain immediate side effects. These include:

• Pain: This is a common side effect as your body responds to the surgical changes.
• Swelling: Swelling in the treated area is a natural response to surgery and can take time to subside.
• Bruising: Bruises may appear around the surgical site, resulting from the body’s healing process.
• Tight Feeling in Your Chest: The placement of implants can cause a sensation of tightness as the skin and tissues adjust to their new contours.
• Temporary Numbness: Some patients may experience numbness in the breast area, which usually diminishes over time.

There are also long-term side effects that, while not guaranteed to occur, are possibilities to be aware of. These include:

• Visible Scarring: Any surgical incision can lead to scarring, though surgeons typically aim to minimize and strategically place incisions to reduce visible scarring.
• Breast Tissue Feeling Hard: This can occur due to the development of scar tissue around the implant, known as capsular contracture.
• Ruptured Implants: Over time, implants can rupture, necessitating their removal or replacement.
• Creases, Folds or Rippling: These effects can occur depending on the type of implant, its placement, and individual body factors.
• Reduced Sensitivity: Some patients may experience a decrease in nipple or breast sensitivity, which can be either temporary or permanent.
• Inability or Difficulty to Breastfeed: Breast augmentation surgery can potentially impact breastfeeding ability, though many women are still able to breastfeed post-surgery.

Addressing Concerns and Complications Post Breast Augmentation

After undergoing breast augmentation surgery, it’s crucial to be vigilant about your recovery and be aware of any unusual symptoms or concerns. If you experience any significant issues, such as severe pain, unusual symptoms, or side effects that were not anticipated, it’s important to take immediate action.

In such instances, the first and most important step is to contact the clinical support team at Centre for Surgery as soon as possible. The team is equipped to provide you with the necessary guidance and support. They can assess your situation and advise on the best course of action, which may include:

• Scheduling an immediate appointment for a check-up.
• Providing advice on managing your symptoms at home until you can be seen.
• Directing you to seek urgent medical care if your symptoms are indicative of a serious complication.

Remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to post-operative care. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the clinical team, even if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are cause for concern. Prompt communication and action can be crucial in addressing any complications effectively and ensuring a smooth recovery.

Why Choose Centre for Surgery for Your Breast Augmentation Surgery

Centre for Surgery stands as a premier destination for those seeking breast augmentation surgery in the UK. Our commitment to providing exceptional care, combined with cutting-edge techniques, ensures an experience that prioritises your comfort, safety, and satisfaction.

Patient Testimonials:

1. “My journey with Centre for Surgery was remarkable. From the consultation to the post-op care, their team was supportive, professional, and made me feel completely at ease. My results are beyond what I had hoped for, and I couldn’t be more grateful.” – Sarah J.
2. “Choosing Centre for Surgery for my breast augmentation was the best decision. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and caring, and the surgeon’s expertise was evident in the excellent results. The difference it has made to my confidence is immeasurable.” – Emily R.
3. “The level of personalised care I received at Centre for Surgery was exceptional. Every question was answered, and the support throughout my recovery was outstanding. The results are natural and exactly what I wanted.” – Lauren H.

Consultation and Contact Details: To begin your journey with us or to learn more about breast augmentation surgery, we invite you to book a consultation. Contact our clinical support team:

• Phone: 0207 993 4849
• Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
• Visit Us: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN

Further Information and Resources:

• About Us: Discover more about our ethos, team, and commitment to excellence on our About Us page.
• Finance Options: We offer flexible finance options, including 0% APR with Chrysalis Finance, to make your surgical journey more accessible. Learn more about our finance options here.
• Plastic Surgery Blog: For additional insights, stories, and information about breast augmentation and other procedures, visit our plastic surgery blog.
• Clinic FAQs: Have questions? Our FAQ page offers detailed answers to help guide you.
• Baker Street Clinic: Experience our state-of-the-art facilities and personalised care at our Baker Street clinic. More information can be found here.

At Centre for Surgery, we understand that choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a significant decision. We are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling experience.