Breast Enlargement (Breast Augmentation)

Breast enlargement or breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures available today.  There are different reasons that cause the fluctuation of the size and shape of the breasts.  The size of the breasts is genetically determined and may sometimes remain small throughout puberty and as a consequence of hormonal changes later in life.  The breasts may also change through fluctuations in weight, and after pregnancy and breastfeeding, while the ageing process may cause them to droop. 

For many women, the size and shape of their breasts affect their confidence and self-esteem.  This could be improved by using breast implants to change their size and shape. 

It is very important to choose a surgeon with a specific interest and with extensive experience in breast augmentation before going ahead with surgery.  The surgeon will advise you on which shape and size of implant will be right for you, and the method of inserting the implant will be determined and discussed.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

The surgery itself involves a short incision in either the crease under the breast, the armpit or around the areola.  Implants may then be positioned either between the breast tissue and the pectoral muscle (sub-glandular) or behind the muscle (sub-muscular).

Mr Prinsloo is a very experienced breast surgeon who has been carrying out breast augmentation procedures dating back to 1989.  He prefers a natural, “unoperated” appearance of the breasts after surgery.  He will give advice regarding the type of implants and positioning in order to achieve the best result for each patient.

Breast implants

A breast implant comprises an outer shell of silicone filled with either silicone gel or salt water.  Cohesive silicone gel implants are commonly used by cosmetic breast surgeons today.  Implant shapes are either round or oval with a teardrop contour, and the shells have either smooth or textured surfaces.

The manufacturer’s predicted life expectancy of breast implants is 10 years or more. However, as there is no specific expiry date, implants can stay in place without problems for a much longer period.

Breast augmentation Recovery

Following breast augmentation surgery, there will be some soreness around the chest area, particularly when moving the arms.  This will improve within the first few days after surgery.  It is usually advisable to stay away from work for one week.  A good support bra (for example, a sports bra) should be used for four weeks following surgery.  It will take four to six weeks to return to normal routines and to resume any type of strenuous activity.

Is it safe?

Many studies have been conducted to determine whether silicone breast implants are safe.  As a result of these studies, there is at present no evidence to suggest any association with increased incidence of breast cancer or auto-immune diseases.

Possible complications of  breast augmentation surgery include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, scar tissue contracture (capsular contracture), loss of sensation, and wrinkling or folding of the implants.

Capsular contracture may cause the breast to be firm, uncomfortable and in some cases even misshaped.  A breast capsulectomy procedure can be performed to correct this problem and the implant is replaced at the same time.

Mr Prinsloo will explain how the possible risks will apply to you.

Due to the Data Protection Act etc. our supply of pre/post operative pictures is currently limited. 

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Breast Enlargement (Breast Augmentation)

Description

Insertion of silicone gel implant to enlarge breast size, enhance shape and/or improve asymmetry.

Who are candidates?

Women unhappy with their breast size and shape
Those wishing to regain breast size or shape after childbirth
Women with breast asymmetry

How is it done?

Breast implants are available in a variety of types, shapes and sizes. Mr. Prinsloo will advise you on which shape of implant and method of insertion is right for you. Short incision either in the crease under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit will be used. Implants may be positioned either between the glandular tissue of the breast and the pectoral muscle (sub-glandular) or behind the muscle (sub-muscular).

Length of surgery

One to 11/2 hours, under general anaesthetic

Hospital stay

Overnight stay

Time to heal

  • Driving is possible after first few days
  • Return to work in one week
  • Breasts will be tender and bruised, with swelling lasting several weeks
  • Support bra to be worn for 4 weeks
  • Resume normal activity in 4-6 weeks

Risks

Bleeding, infection, visible scars, wrinkling or folding of implant (more so in skinny patients), loss of sensation, asymmetry between breasts, contraction of scar capsule around implant (5-10%) and complications related to anaesthesia. The human body reacts to the breast implant by forming scar tissue around it. Sometimes this tissue can shrink and contract (capsular contraction 5-10%), making the breast feel harder and look more rounded. Further surgery may be necessary to correct this problem.

Duration of results

Long-lasting, though gravity and age may eventually alter breast shape and size.

Pro's

  • Improved breast shape and size
  • The silicone gel implants used carry a lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer against implant failure and capsular contracture (does not include cost of surgery)
  • Will still be able to breastfeed

Con's

  • Scarring underneath the breast
  • Implants may make it more difficult to read mammograms
  • Breast implants alone cannot lift very saggy breasts
  • Breast uplift may be required

Answers to myths

  • Implants will not explode when flying
  • Implants will not leak into body
  • Implants will not melt in heat
  • Implants will not move to a different part of body
  • Implants do not increase risk of breast cancer

"To Mr Prinsloo, Thank you so very much for looking after me and providing the most excellent care and reassurance."

LM - 23 January 2013 - Breast Implants

"To Mr Prinsloo and Staff, Sometimes we get so busy that we forget to take the time to thank the people in our lives who do such kind and thoughtful things, so I'd like to take time now to thank you for your kindness, dedication and for looking after me whilst I was a patient under your care. I am truly grateful and appreciate everything that you have done for me."

TS - 28 May 2012 - Breast Enhancement

"Mr Prinsloo, Thank you so much for my operation on 2nd April 2012. I am more than pleased with the results so far and I know more is to come. Please except this box of chocolates as a thank you for the fabulous work you've done."

SW - 2 April 2012 - Boob Job

"To Mr Prinsloo, Many thanks for my new boobs! I love them and am happy with how great they are."

DL - March 2012 - Breast Enlargement

"Mr Prinsloo and team, My recent breast augmentation op has been a huge success. I feel so much more confident and clothes look great for the first time in my life. My husband is also very pleased. Thank you so Much."

KJ - 31 August 2011 - Breast Enhancement

"Mr Prinsloo. Thank you so much for everything, you have made me so happy. I really couldn't have wished for more. Thank you."

HJ - 6 July 2011 - Breast Enhancement

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, Thank you so very much for everything!! You've done a wonderful job and I'm ever so grateful. From the initial consultation when I asked a multitude of questions right through to the post operative assessment I received the very best guidance, care and treatment. The end result could not have been better so thank you from the bottom of my heart. Best wishes."

ES - January 2010 - Bilateral Breast Augmentation

"Dear Mr Prinsloo and staff, Thank you so much for everything. I am extremely happy with the outcome. You've all looked after me so well. Thank you again."

SF - November 2009 - Breast Augmentation

"To Mr Prinsloo, A huge thank you for my 'new additions'!! Thank you for chatting to me in the anaesthetic room too – I was very nervous. It may seem trivial to some - a breast augmentation – but to me it means the world. Thank you."

CH - August 2009 - Breast Augmentation

"To Mr Prinsloo, Just wanted to say a big Thank You!!"

ZB - December 2008 - Breast Augmentation

"Dear Mr Dr Prinsloo and staff, Just to say thank you so much for all your help and expertise. Things are going well and I look great – no bras with the Christmas frock – wonderful. Thanks again."

BS - November 2007–February 2010 - Breast reconstruction + Breast Augmentation

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, Thank you so so much for all you have done for me. You cannot comprehend how happy I have been this past week. You are amazingly clever!! and I totally appreciate it!"

MS - May 2007 - Breast Augmentation

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, I can't believe that this was less than a month ago and I have already had the surgery! I just want to thank you for your time and such wonderful results. You have given me my dream come true and I am so grateful to you. My credit card may not be so grateful with all the shopping I now intend to do! Many many thanks."

SF - March 2007 - Breast Augmentation

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, I want to personally thank you for the fantastic job you have done! I am very pleased with my new breasts!! Everything went very well, with minimal pain, minimal bruising and very neat scars which I am sure in time will disappear completely. Thank you."

KE - November 2004 - Breast Augmentation

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, I made a good decision changing to have a consultation with you – you made me feel comfortable throughout – I am very pleased with the result and will thank you every day. Best wishes."

JB - June 2004 - Breast Enhancement

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, It is almost 4 years since I came to the Nuffield for my "op" under your expert care. Since then my opinion of myself has risen as has my self esteem. It completely changed my life. I had a speedy recovery and I didn't have any problems after or since. I think I look fantastic. Something I never felt I would feel about myself. Thank you so much. Yours sincerely."

FT - August 2003 – Breast Augmentation

The most commonly asked questions Mr. Prinsloo has been asked over the last 18 years.

What is a breast augmentation?

Breast Augmentation is a cosmetic procedure which involves inserting an implant into the breast to make it bigger and give it a fuller shape.

How popular is it?

Breast Augmentation has been a popular procedure since the 1960's. Today it is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available.

Am I a suitable candidate for a Breast Augmentation?

There are different reasons why you may experience a change in the size or shape of your breasts. Your breast size is determined genetically and may remain small through your life. Your breasts may also change through fluctuations in weight and often pregnancy and breastfeeding, while the ageing process may cause them to droop.

How is it done?

Your cosmetic surgeon will advise you on which type of implant and method of inserting will be right for you. Implants may be positioned either between your own breast tissue and the pectoral muscle (sub-glandular) or behind the muscle (sub-muscular).

What types of implants are available?

Breast implants comprise an outer shell of silicone filled with either silicone gel or salt water. Cohesive silicone gel implants are commonly used by cosmetic breast surgeons today. Implant shapes are either round or oval with teardrop contour, and the shells have either smooth or textured surfaces.

How long will implants last?

The manufacturer's predicted life expectancy of breast implants is 10 years or more. However, as there is no specific expiry date, implants can stay in place for a much longer period.

What is the recovery period?

It is usually advisable to stay away from work for one week. There will be some soreness around the chest area, particularly when moving the arms. This will improve within the first few days after the surgery. A good support bra (for example, a sports bra) should be used for 4 weeks following surgery. It will take 4-6 weeks to return to normal routines and to resume any type of strenuous activity.

Is it safe?

Many studies have been conducted to determine whether silicone breast implants are safe. As a result of these studies, there is at present no evidence to suggest any association with increased incidence of breast cancer or auto-immune diseases.

What are the risks?

Possible complications of breast enlargement surgery include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, scar tissue contracture (capsular contracture), loss of sensation, and wrinkling or folding of the implants.

Capsular contracture may cause the breast to be firm, uncomfortable and in some cases even misshaped. A breast capsulectomy procedure can be performed to correct this problem and the implant is replaced at the same time.

Is it safe to fly after Breast Augmentation?

Cabin pressure has no effect on the implants. Your implants will not explode when flying after the surgery.

Will I be able to breast feed after breast enlargement?

If you were able to breast feed before the surgery you should be able to breast feed after the surgery.

What size do I wish to be?

The volume of a breast implant is not given in a particular cup size. Breast implants are measured in mille litres or cubic centimetres. Your cosmetic surgeon will discuss the differences between cup size and how this will apply to you.

How long does breast augmentation/breast enlargement surgery take?

It takes approximately 1-1½ hours to perform the surgery.

How long will the results of your breast enlargement last?

For the great majority of women, the results of their augmentation are permanent. However, women who opt for larger implants may find that their breasts sag rather more as they get older.

Who is a good candidate for a breast enlargement?

• Women who are naturally flat-chested
• Women who have lost breast size following weight loss, breastfeeding or ageing
• Women who have lost a breast through cancer or other disease
• Women who have failed to develop one or both breasts
• women who want a curvier, more feminine shape

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