Is breast enlargement surgery right for you?

You might know breast enlargement surgery by other names such as breast augmentation, augmentation mammaplasty, or a ‘boob job’. It is a procedure which uses saline or silicone implants in order to enlarge the breasts or improve their shape.

As with any surgical cosmetic procedure, it is absolutely essential to carefully consider whether the treatment is right for you. In this blog, we address some of the key considerations about your suitability for breast enlargement surgery:

Is breast enlargement right for me?

Whether you opt for breast enlargement is a decision which is in your hands, and you should not be influenced by anybody else. As with all aesthetic surgery, it is important to have realistic expectations of what the procedure can change. It should be considered for purely cosmetic reasons, rather than an ability to ‘change your life’.

There are a number of reasons why you could be a good candidate for breast enlargement surgery. You may feel your clothes do not fit well around your breasts or be unhappy with the shape or size of your breasts. The firmness or size of your breasts may have changed because of weight loss, or breastfeeding. And you may also consider breast enlargement surgery in order to address a discrepancy in the size of your breasts.

Will breast augmentation increase my risk of breast cancer?

It is important to note that breast implants used in breast enlargement surgery do not cause breast cancer, or raise your chances of getting breast cancer. However, research has shown that women who have breast implants are more likely to get anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL). ALCL is a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is cancer that comes from the lymphatic system that helps the body combat disease and infection. The reason why breast implants could lead to a higher risk of ALCL is not yet known, but it is recognised that textured implants are far more likely to contribute to ALCL than smooth implants.

Am I too old for breast enlargement surgery?

In the UK, most surgeons state a minimum age of 18 to undergo breast enlargement. But there is no upper age limit, and breast enlargement surgery is performed for women in their 50s, 60s and even 70s. Age isn’t necessarily a factor when considering a candidacy for breast enlargement surgery. The overall health of the patient, and their expectations of what the surgery can achieve, is of greater importance than age. These factors can be assessed during a consultation which includes a physical examination.

What breast size is right for me?

You will discuss the size with your surgeon, who will help you to identify the best size for you. In some cases, it can be helpful to bring in a bra of the size you wish to achieve.

How long after the procedure can I resume normal activities?

You should begin walking immediately after surgery, but intense physical exercise – including weight lifting, running or biking – is usually avoided for six weeks after the operation.

Breast enlargement surgery is certainly not something to rush into. But by considering all elements and having realistic expectations, you can come to the right decision for you. If you are interested in breast enlargement or cosmetic surgery in Bristol then call us today on 0117 906 4871