Breast enlargement tailored to your anatomy and goals

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases breast volume using implants. It may also help improve breast proportions or differences in size.

At Brits Medical and Cosmetic Service (BMACS), a consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your preferences, understand the options and explore whether surgery is appropriate for you.

Book a consultation to discuss breast augmentation with BMACS.

Breast augmentation, also called breast enlargement, involves placing implants beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle to increase fullness.

People may consider the procedure to increase naturally smaller breasts, restore volume following pregnancy or weight changes, or improve differences between the breasts.

The aim is to achieve a result that suits your anatomy and preferences. A particular cup size, perfect symmetry or specific appearance cannot be guaranteed.

Choosing an implant involves more than selecting a size. Your surgeon will assess your chest width, existing breast tissue, skin quality and overall proportions.

Your consultation should cover:

• Size and volume: what your tissues can safely accommodate.
• Shape and profile: how the implant affects fullness and projection.
• Implant surface and material: the benefits and risks of the proposed device.
• Placement: whether the implant sits behind breast tissue, beneath the chest muscle or in a combination position.
• Incisions: where scars will be placed and how they may heal.

Larger implants may place greater strain on the tissues and increase the likelihood of stretching, sagging or further surgery.

Implants add volume, but they do not reliably correct significant sagging or low nipple position.

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, removes excess skin and reshapes the breast. Some patients may benefit from a lift alone or a lift combined with implants. Your surgeon will explain the differences, including the additional scarring and risks.

Suitability depends on your physical health, breast development, medical history and expectations.

Tell your surgeon about previous breast surgery, breast symptoms, medication, supplements, smoking and any plans for pregnancy or breastfeeding. Pregnancy and weight changes can alter the result, so the timing of surgery matters.

Any new breast lump, nipple discharge or unexplained skin change should be medically assessed before cosmetic surgery.

Your consultation should help you make an informed decision at your own pace. It should include:

• Your reasons for considering surgery and your desired outcome.
• A breast examination and review of your medical history.
• Suitable implant options and alternatives, including no treatment.
• The procedure, anaesthetic and proposed treatment setting.
• Expected scars, recovery and aftercare.
• Short-term complications and long-term implant risks.
• A written quotation and explanation of future treatment costs.

You should have time to reflect and ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.

Swelling, tightness, bruising and discomfort are common during early recovery. Your surgical team will provide instructions on wound care, support garments, sleeping positions and returning to activity.

Time away from work depends on your procedure and job. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise need to be restricted until your surgeon advises that they can resume.

The breasts will change as swelling settles and the tissues adjust. The final appearance develops over several months, while scars continue to mature.

Breast augmentation carries risks including bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, scarring, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia.

Implant-related complications include:

• Capsular contracture: scar tissue tightens around the implant, potentially causing firmness, discomfort or distortion.
• Rupture: an implant may split or leak and require assessment or further surgery.
• Changes in appearance: rippling, implant movement, asymmetry or sagging.
• Changes in sensation: nipple or breast sensitivity may increase, decrease or remain permanently altered.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. You may need removal, replacement or additional surgery in the future, with associated costs.

A rare cancer of the immune system called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) can develop around an implant. It is associated more frequently with textured implants. Your surgeon should explain the risk relevant to the implant proposed.

Some patients report symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain and difficulty concentrating, sometimes described as breast implant illness. The causes are not fully understood, and improvement after implant removal cannot be guaranteed.

Explore your options with a consultation focused on your anatomy, preferences and long-term care.

Visit bmacs.org.uk⁠ to request a consultation.

Treatment is subject to clinical assessment and suitability. All surgery carries risks, and results vary between individuals.