Breast Augmentation

A breast augmentation, breast enlargement, or “boob job” is the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the UK. In 2012, nearly 10,000 British women went under the knife to amplify their assets, and, gradually, the numbers are still rising.

However, with the recent scandal relating to PIP implants, and new horror stories surrounding dodgy doctors emerging every day, it has never been more important to select the right surgeon.

If breastfeeding has left you blue, unevenness makes you embarrassed, or if you’re looking to rebuild your confidence after a mastectomy, Austingraces has the specialist knowledge and understanding to deliver beautiful results and quality care.

Woman with beautiful breast on beige background, closeup. Space

About Us

At Austingraces, we understand that in order to feel confident about your surgery, you must feel confident in your surgeon.

That’s why we offer a free second consultation to all of our patients. We like to make sure that every question has been asked, and all of your worries are alleviated before you undergo any surgical procedure. For your convenience, your consultations and treatment can be performed at any of our clinics, which are based in Brentwood, Chelmsford, and London.

Our surgeon, Mr Fortune Iwuagwu is BAPRAS accredited, GMC-registered, and has specialised in plastic surgery, reconstructive work, and intricate hand surgery for almost 20 years. With Austingraces, you can be reassured that you are in the safest possible hands.

FAQ’s

How Does It Work?

During the operation, an incision is made to access the inside of the breast, and a pocket is made for the implant to go into. The implant is then inserted either under the breast tissue itself or under the muscle, and the wounds are closed with absorbable sutures.

What’s Inside an Implant?

All breast implants come with an outer silicone shell, but their contents can differ. The most frequently used implants in the UK contain silicone, as this kind of implant has been proven to stand the test of time and provide the patient with the best overall results. However, implants containing saline (salt water) and other substances can also be used.

Where Will My Scar Be?

Most often, a cut called a submammary incision is made under the breast, and the implant is inserted from there. However, implants can also be inserted via the armpit, or alternatively incisions can be made around the area known as the areola, which surrounds the nipple.

For How Long Will I Need To Stay In Hospital?

Depending on the time of your operation, you can often be in and out within the same day, or stay in hospital overnight.

What Happens In Aftercare?

To prevent infection, antibiotics are given to you during the operation, and will need to be taken for a short period after your surgery. Pain relief medication will also be provided should you need it.

After your operation, you will be fitted with a support bra, to keep everything in place while you heal. The bra will also support the weight of the implants and help to reduce any discomfort which you may experience. This bra should be worn for six weeks.

How much time off work do I need?

During the first few days after your operation you may experience some discomfort, however after around a week most patients feel ready to go back to work.

As a precaution, you are advised to avoid any heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks after your operation, especially if your implant was placed under the muscle. You may need to take more time off work if it involves lifting of any kind.

Are Breast Implants Safe?

In the United Kingdom, an ‘Independent Review Group‘ was set up by the government to assess the concerns and controversies over the safety of silicone breast implants. They did not find sufficient scientific evidence to support the concerns held in the USA over their safety. (In the USA there has been a ban in the use of silicone breast implants for cosmetic breast augmentation since 1992.) More information can be found at www.silicone-review.gov.uk

The notorious PIP implants, which were made from sub-standard silicone and prone to rupturing, are no longer used.

As a precaution, you are advised to avoid any heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks after your operation, especially if your implant was placed under the muscle. You may need to take more time off work if it involves lifting of any kind.

How Long Does the Operation Last?

A breast augmentation operation usually takes about an hour.

What Are The Risks?

With any surgery, complications are possible. However, at Austingraces we are determined to make sure that you are aware of any potential problems, and feel comfortable enough to ask us about any concerns you may have during your first consultation.

Possible complications can include infection, small areas of superficial wound breakdown, haematoma or accumulation of blood, fluid collection, and changes in sensation in the nipple. Other problems include rupturing, wrinkling, adverse capsular contracture (hardening of the breast area around the implant), and the formation of “bad” capsules, which occurs when problems develop in the thin, soft sheet of scarring which the body forms around the implant.

Most of these issues are treatable with drainage, dressings, or drugs, and with time, the majority of patients do not find changes in sensation bothersome. In some rare cases, an infected implant may mean that the implant has to be removed for as long as three months, to allow the breast tissues to fully recover before it is reinserted.