Breast Enlargement

What is Breast Enlargement (Augmentation)?

Breast enlargement is a procedure used to enhance or restore breast volume using implants. It can help improve balance, correct natural asymmetry, or replace fullness lost after pregnancy, weight change, or ageing. The aim is always a natural, flattering result that suits your body shape.

Why Choose Breast Enlargement?

Many women choose breast enlargement to feel more confident in their shape, achieve better body proportion, or restore volume that has changed over time. It can also help even out differences between the breasts. While implants are long-lasting, they may need replacing in the future.

How the Procedure Works

Breast enlargement is carried out under general anaesthetic and usually takes around 1–2 hours. A small incision is made in the crease under the breast, and a pocket is created either behind the breast tissue or partly beneath the chest muscle. The implant is placed, and the incision closed. Most patients go home the same day, though an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended.

What to Expect After Surgery

You may experience swelling, tightness or discomfort for a few days after surgery — this is completely normal. A supportive front-fastening bra should be worn day and night for around 6 weeks to help healing. Light activities can resume fairly quickly, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4–6 weeks. Your final results will settle gradually as the tissues heal.

 

Important Considerations & Long-Term Information

Implants are safe and used widely, but they are not considered lifetime devices. Some patients may need revision surgery in the future. Rare complications such as capsular contracture or changes in sensation can occur. Implants can also affect how breast imaging is performed — your radiographer will simply adjust the technique if needed. If implants are removed later, further surgery may be needed to address loose skin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1What does surgery involve?
Under a general anaesthetic (asleep) a cut is made on the underside of the breast around the inframammary fold. A ‘pocket’ is created inside either under the breast tissue, or under the chest muscle (pectoralis major). The implant is inserted into this space and the skin is stitched closed.
2What type of implant will I have?
This will be decided when you come to clinic. You will be advised which implant size, shape, and texture is most appropriate for your goals. Implant registry – all implants are now recorded on a national database called the Breast and Cosmetic Implant Registry (BCIR). This is managed by NHS Digital and entry of your information onto the database is mandatory to allow you to be traced in the event of an issue with your type of implant in the future. For information on the Registry please click here.
3How can I prepare for surgery?
You will need to buy a post-surgical front-fastening bra. You should buy a selection of sizes. If you take any blood thinners such as Aspirin you will have been advised to stop these prior to surgery and should follow the instructions you have been given. You should not smoke or use nicotine replacement for 6 weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of complications including wound breakdown, infection, and implant loss.
4What are the risks of surgery?
These will be discussed in the clinic. Please note a specific cup size cannot be guaranteed but you can express a preference. In order to reduce your risk you can make sure you eat healthily, are a healthy weight, and stop smoking.
5What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will usually be healed in 2 weeks. Occasionally areas can take up to 6 weeks to heal. You will need to wear your post-surgical bra day and night for 6 weeks.
6What about breast feeding?
Most patients who have breast implants can still breastfeed. Please be aware some patients cannot breastfeed and if this is important to you then you may wish to consider delaying surgery. Also breastfeeding will change the result of your augmentation.
7What about mammograms?
Mammograms are possible with implants in place. Please tell the person carrying out the mammogram that you have breast implants, and they will take this into account when performing your mammogram. You may be advised to get a mammogram prior to having implants inserted. This could be related to a high-risk family history or if you are due for a mammogram on the national screening programme. Miss Jackson will advise you when you come for your out-patient appointment.
8How long do implants last?
Breast implants undergo rigorous testing to ensure their safety. Some implants will last a patient’s lifetime without causing problems, others may require revision surgery within years.
9Is this the right operation for me?
This may be the right operation for you if:
  • You want an increase in the size of your breasts
  • You have no objection to having silicone
  • You accept the long-term risks associated with breast implants such as rupture and BIA-ALCL
  • You understand that removing the implants in the future will result in residual loose skin
Not sure about breast augmentation? Consider Fat Transfer.

Key Features To Be Aware Of:

  • Surgical time – 60-90 mins
  • Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
  • Time off work – 1-2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
  • Hospital stay – 0-1 nights
  • Shower – immediately
  • Reasonably mobile – 2 days
  • Sleeping position – back or side
  • Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
  • Bras – front fastening post-op bra for 6 weeks day and night
  • Sexual activity – after 1-2 weeks when comfortable
  • Full recovery – 6 weeks
  • Driving – 1-2 weeks

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

  • 16 May 2024 C.A. Verified patient
    I can not speak highly enough of the care I received under Philippa Jackson. From initial consultation, through surgery, follow up and beyond, my treatment has been exceptional. Any questions/concerns were explained and reassured and my results are far better than expected.
    16 May 2024 C.A. Verified patient
  • 16 May 2024 S.S. Verified patient
    The care I have received from Miss Jackson is faultless. From the first consultation to the ongoing care after the surgery it has been amazing. She is always available to answer any queries I have and made me feel at ease and comfortable throughout.
    16 May 2024 S.S. Verified patient
  • 17 May 2024 J.M. Verified patient
    Exceptional care throughout. Had some complications and was amazed at how many times Ms Jackson insisted on coming in to the hospital daily to insure progress and high standard of post op.
    17 May 2024 J.M. Verified patient
  • 19 May 2024 K.W. Verified patient
    I can't fault Miss Jackson's care, consideration and expertise. Clinical treatment and administration were both excellent.
    19 May 2024 K.W. Verified patient
  • 11 June 2024 E.K. Verified patient
    Philippa is so empathetic, professional and skilled. I felt listened to and knew I was in safe hands. She achieved an incredible outcome with my reconstruction - beyond even my most optimistic expectations. Philippa gave me back ownership of my body and I recognise myself again.
    11 June 2024 E.K. Verified patient
  • 15 November 2024 S.L. Verified patient
    Miss Jackson was just brilliant in my consultation with her. She is compassionate and kind, actively listens and exudes calm professionalism. She laid out my options clearly and didn't try to influence me into a decision that I wasn't ready to make.
    15 November 2024 S.L. Verified patient
  • 30 January 2025 F.L. Verified patient
    Philippa has been absolutely amazing throughout the whole surgery process, from initial consultation, to surgery day and post-op. She explained everything very clearly and was more than happy to speak to me outside of appointments to answer any questions I had.
    30 January 2025 F.L. Verified patient
  • 21 July 2025 A.C. Verified patient
    Extremely informative and thorough, happy to talk through all procedures in detail and great after care. Very happy with surgery results. Thank you.
    21 July 2025 A.C. Verified patient
  • Miss E.S.
    Thank you so much for everything! You have given me confidence in my body that I never had before! I am truly so happy and cannot thank you enough!’.
    Miss E.S.
    Breast Reduction
  • Ms R.S.
    ‘A massive thank you for the amazing work you have done and for the end result. You have given me my confidence back and I cannot thank you enough. You’re an amazing surgeon and I’m glad I listened to your advice. Your kindness, support and knowledge and friendly smile put me at ease on every appointment. I feel like a new woman that can finally wear my summer dresses and go swimming with convince again. A massive, massive thank you’.
    Ms R.S.
    Breast Asymmetry Correction
  • Mrs A.D.
    ‘I just wanted to write a note to say a huge thank you for all your work on my reconstruction. Even though the journey was sometimes hard, you have always been so positive and supportive. Your skill is not only in the technical side of surgery but also in the psychological support and guidance you offer. The results of my surgeries are both physical and emotional - I am more confident and so pleased with the outcome. Thank you for all that you’ve done’.
    Mrs A.D.
    Breast Cancer Reconstruction

Further information on Miss Jackson's work and independent testimonials can be found on her TopDoctors profile.