Breast enlargement, also called breast augmentation, is a surgical procedure that uses implants to increase breast size or alter breast shape. If you are considering breast enlargement in the UK, you will usually want to understand your implant options, how sizing is decided, what happens during your consultation, how long recovery takes and what scars or risks to expect.
Breast enlargement is a significant decision, and there is no single implant, size or approach that is right for everyone. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your individual anatomy, expectations, implant options and the potential risks before you decide whether surgery is right for you.
This guide explains what to consider before breast enlargement, from choosing an implant to recovering afterwards.
What is breast enlargement?
Breast enlargement is a surgical procedure in which implants are placed inside the breast to increase its size or change its shape.
Breast implants can also be used to address differences in breast size, although surgery cannot guarantee that two breasts will become exactly symmetrical.
Breast enlargement is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. The implant is placed either behind the breast tissue or behind the chest muscle, depending on your anatomy and the surgical approach agreed with your surgeon.
There are several decisions to make before surgery, including the type, size and shape of the implant and where it will be positioned. These choices will be discussed during your consultation rather than made from measurements alone.
What types of breast implants are available?
Breast implants are generally made with either a silicone or saline filling.
Silicone implants are commonly used in the UK. Saline implants contain sterile salt water. Each type has different characteristics, and your surgeon will explain which options may be suitable for you based on your individual circumstances.
Implants can also differ in their shape, size and profile. The most suitable option depends on factors such as your existing breast tissue, chest shape, skin and the result you are hoping to achieve.
There is no universally “best” breast implant. Your surgeon will explain the advantages and disadvantages of the options available to you.
What size breast implant should you choose?
Choosing an implant size is not simply a question of selecting a particular cup size.
Your surgeon will consider your existing breast tissue, chest width, skin and breast shape alongside the size and proportions you would like to achieve. Implant dimensions and profile also affect how an implant sits on your chest.
It is important to have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve. The same implant can look different on two people because everyone’s starting anatomy is different.
During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss the size and shape you are considering and ask how different options may affect your proportions.
If you are unsure about sizing, bring photographs or examples of the type of result you have in mind. Your surgeon can then discuss whether your expectations are realistic for your anatomy.
Considering breast enlargement?
If you would like to understand more about the procedure, implant options and whether breast enlargement may be suitable for you, you can explore our breast enlargement service before your consultation.
What happens during a breast enlargement consultation?
Your consultation is an important part of the decision-making process.
Your surgeon will discuss your reasons for considering surgery, your medical history and your expectations. They will also assess your breasts and chest area and explain the surgical options that may be appropriate for you.
This is your opportunity to ask questions about:
- The type and manufacturer of implant being considered
- Implant size and shape
- Implant placement
- The position and likely appearance of scars
- Recovery and restrictions after surgery
- Possible complications
- Follow-up care
- The possibility of further surgery in the future
Your surgeon will also explain the risks relevant to your individual circumstances and what may happen if a complication occurs or further treatment is needed.
You will be given time to consider the information rather than feeling pressured to make an immediate decision.
NHS guidance recommends checking your surgeon’s qualifications and experience and making sure you have an appointment with the surgeon before going ahead with cosmetic surgery.
What is breast enlargement recovery like?
Breast enlargement is surgery, so you will need time to recover.
The exact recovery varies between patients and depends on factors including the type of surgery you have and how your body heals. Your surgeon will give you individual advice about returning to work, driving, exercise and other activities.
The first week
You may experience discomfort, swelling and a feeling of tightness around the breasts during the early stages of recovery.
You should arrange for someone to help you with practical tasks while you recover, particularly during the first few days.
NHS guidance says many people need around one to two weeks away from work following breast enlargement. You should not drive for at least one week and should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least a month, although your own surgeon’s advice should take priority.
Weeks two to four
You may gradually feel more comfortable and able to return to everyday activities, depending on how your recovery is progressing.
This does not necessarily mean that your breasts have fully settled. Swelling and changes in breast shape can continue as the tissues heal.
You should continue following your surgeon’s advice about exercise, lifting and other activities.
Around six weeks
NHS guidance states that most people should be able to return to most normal activities by around six weeks. Your recovery may be different, so your surgeon will advise you when it is appropriate to resume particular activities.
The appearance and feel of your breasts can also continue to change after this point as swelling settles and the tissues adjust.
What scars will I have after breast enlargement?
Breast enlargement involves an incision through which the implant is inserted, so scarring is an unavoidable part of the procedure.
The position of the incision depends on the surgical technique used. Your surgeon will discuss where your scar is likely to be and what you can expect during your consultation.
Scars can look more noticeable initially and usually change as they mature. NHS guidance notes that scars should start to fade at around six weeks, although scar maturation continues for considerably longer.
Everyone heals differently. Some people develop more noticeable scars than others, and there is no way to guarantee exactly how an individual scar will look.
Your surgeon will explain how to care for your incision after surgery and when it is appropriate to use any scar-care products.
What are the risks of breast enlargement?
As with any surgery, breast enlargement carries risks. Understanding these is an important part of deciding whether the procedure is right for you.
Potential complications associated with breast implants include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Visible or thickened scarring
- Rippling or creasing of the implant
- Implant movement or rotation
- Implant rupture
- Capsular contracture, where scar tissue around the implant becomes tight or hard
- Changes to the appearance or shape of the breast
Some complications may require further treatment or surgery.
There is also an uncommon type of cancer associated with breast implants called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). It is not breast cancer, and it is considered rare. People with breast implants should be aware of the condition and know which changes to discuss with a healthcare professional.
Your surgeon will explain the risks relevant to you, including how potential complications may be managed if they occur.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices.
There is no fixed date at which every implant needs to be replaced. Some implants may remain in place for many years without causing problems, while others may require further surgery because of complications or changes to the breast.
The NHS notes that some women may need further surgery after around 10 years, either because of problems with the implants or because the breasts have changed around them.
This is one reason why breast enlargement should be considered as a long-term decision rather than a one-off procedure.
Your surgeon will explain what follow-up you can expect and what may happen if you need further surgery in the future.
Can you still have breast screening with implants?
Yes. Having breast implants does not mean you should stop attending breast screening when you are invited.
However, it is important to tell the radiographer that you have breast implants before your mammogram. Implants can make some breast tissue more difficult to see, so additional X-rays or specialised techniques may be used to improve the view of the breast tissue.
Breast screening does not check whether your implants are intact. If you have concerns about an implant, such as a change in its shape, swelling or other unusual symptoms, you should speak to your doctor rather than relying on routine screening.
The NHS confirms that mammograms are safe for people with breast implants and that the imaging team may use a different technique to see as much breast tissue as possible.
How much does breast enlargement cost?
The cost of breast enlargement varies depending on factors such as the clinic, surgeon, implant choice and what is included in your treatment package.
When comparing prices, look beyond the headline figure. Ask whether your quoted cost includes the consultation, surgeon and hospital fees, implants, aftercare and any other appointments or treatment included in your care.
You should also ask what happens if you experience a complication or need further surgery.
The NHS advises patients to consider the full cost of cosmetic surgery, including the possibility of further treatment in the future.
A consultation is the best way to understand what treatment may be appropriate for you and what your individual treatment costs would be.
Breast enlargement FAQs
It is possible to breastfeed with breast implants, although it can depend on the size and placement of the implants and the type of surgery you have had.
For example, NHS guidance explains that an incision under the breast fold or through the armpit should not usually cause problems with breastfeeding, while an incision around the areola may affect the milk ducts. There is no way to know exactly how breastfeeding will be affected until you try.
If you are considering breast enlargement and may want to breastfeed in the future, discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation. They can explain how the planned procedure may affect breastfeeding.
Yes. The NHS states that it is safe to fly and sunbathe if you have breast implants.
However, this is different from travelling immediately after breast enlargement surgery. During your recovery, you will need to follow your surgeon’s advice about when it is appropriate to fly or travel.
You should also protect healing scars from sun exposure and follow the advice given by your surgical team about scar care.
You must be 18 or over to have breast enlargement at Transform. Even if you are over 18, your surgeon will consider whether surgery is appropriate for you, including whether your breasts have finished developing and whether you fully understand the procedure and its risks.
Pregnancy and changes in body weight can affect the appearance and shape of your breasts, whether or not you have implants.
Your breasts may change during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and significant weight changes can also alter the surrounding breast tissue and skin. This may affect how your breasts look after breast enlargement and, in some cases, may lead to a discussion about further surgery.
If you are planning a pregnancy or expect significant changes to your weight, discuss the timing of breast enlargement with your surgeon.
The Breast and Cosmetic Implant Registry (BCIR) was set up in 2016 to record details of people who have breast implant surgery, so they can be traced if a safety concern arises with a specific type of implant. Your surgical team can explain how your procedure will be recorded.
Is breast enlargement right for you?
Breast enlargement is a personal decision, and you should never feel under pressure to have surgery.
If you are considering the procedure, take time to understand what surgery involves, what it can and cannot achieve, the potential risks and the recovery involved.
A consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your individual circumstances with a surgeon, ask questions and find out which options may be suitable for you. You can then take time to consider the information before deciding whether you want to proceed.
If you would like to explore your options, you can arrange a consultation with a Transform surgeon to discuss whether breast enlargement may be suitable for you.