The purpose of having breast implants (Mammaplasty) is to enlarge and increase the fullness of the breasts, alter the shape of the breasts or repair them after an accident or surgery.

What does the procedure involve?

Most breast enlargements are performed under general anesthetic and this is the preferred method of most surgeons though in some cases it may be performed under local anesthetic, referred to as twilight surgery. The operation is the same for both but with twilight surgery the patient is awake, though heavily sedated, during the procedure and is able to talk to the surgeon and nurses.

During the operation the surgeon will make an incision either underneath the armpit, beneath the nipple, underneath the breast or in the abdomen. A pocket is then made under the breast tissue (or in some cases under the chest muscle) and the implant is inserted before the incision is stitched up. Implants may be filled with silicone or saline (salt water).

What are the benefits and what are the risks?

Benefits

After surgery, breasts will be larger and more pert. Because there is such variety in the shape and size of the implants available it allows the patient to achieve the look they are after.

Risks

One possible risk of having breast implants is implant hardening which is also known as capsular contracture. This occurs when the layer of scar tissue that the body normally grows around the implant contracts or shrinks. This can be quite painful and can lead to the implant losing its shape. If this occurs then the implant will have to be removed. In some cases rippling or creasing may occur around the nipple area and some women may experience a loss of sensation in the nipples or in the breast. As with all types of surgery infection is a possible risk of having breast implants, though this can usually be alleviated with antibiotics. Rupture or leakage of breast implants can occur but is rare. In some instances breast implants may also affect the ability to breastfeed. Lastly, there is some concern that breast implants may affect the reliability of mammograms, as the machines which are used may not always be able to 'see' past the implant. This is known as mammography interference.

Is it the right procedure for me?

Many people opt for implants because they are unhappy with the shape and size of their breasts. This may be because they feel they are generally too small or have shrunk and become saggy looking after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

How long does the procedure take?

The length of surgery depends on the extent of the work being done but can take between one and three hours.

What happens after surgery?

You will be required to stay in hospital overnight though you may be allowed home after a few hours following twilight surgery. You will need to take a week off work to rest and avoid exercise for one month. When you go home you will be very sore, bruised and swollen. You will be wrapped with gauze bandage and have drainage tubes placed in the incision. After several days these will be removed and you will have to wear a supportive, non-underwired bra for several more weeks after which the swelling will have gone down. Any scars may take several months for the pinkness to reduce.

How much is it likely to cost?

Prices can vary between £4,000 and £7,000