Breast augmentation uses silicone implants to increase breast volume and change breast shape. It may be performed alone or combined with a breast lift (augmentation mastopexy).
Augmentation mammaplasty is the insertion of a silicone implant either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or beneath the pectoralis major muscle (subpectoral). Implants vary in volume, profile, shape and surface. Implant selection is matched to your body proportions, breast dimensions, soft-tissue cover and personal goals — and discussed in detail, including the trade-offs, at consultation.
Patients who have lost both volume and breast position — common after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss — may be suited to an augmentation combined with a mastopexy (breast lift). This addresses both volume loss and ptosis in a single operation, though it is more complex than either procedure alone and carries the risks of both.
Patients commonly considered for augmentation include those seeking:
Suitability depends on your anatomy, health and expectations, and is assessed individually. Surgery is not the right choice for everyone, and Dr Doherty will tell you if he doesn’t believe it is appropriate for you.
Most patients return home the same day or after one night in hospital. A supportive bra is worn during early healing, and strenuous chest exercise is restricted for approximately six weeks. See the scar management guide for the healing timeline and scar care protocol.
Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices and are likely to require replacement or removal at some point. Specific risks include capsular contracture, implant rupture, rotation or malposition, rippling, changes in nipple sensation, effects on breastfeeding and mammographic screening, and breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare cancer of the immune system associated with certain implants. These, and the general risks of surgery, are discussed in detail at your consultation.
All surgery carries risk. General risks include bleeding, infection, adverse scarring, anaesthetic complications, and the possibility of revision surgery. Risks specific to this procedure are listed above and will be discussed in detail at your consultation, where you will also receive written information to take home.
A referral from a general practitioner — ideally your usual GP — is required before a consultation for cosmetic surgery. A cooling-off period applies between informed consent and any booking for cosmetic surgery.
Recovery differs between individuals; the timeframes on this page are a general guide only. Outcomes vary from person to person.