Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation (known as a boob job or breast implants) is the UK’s most popular cosmetic surgery procedure for women.
Renowned Plastic Surgeons based in the UK
Most comprehensive 3 year breast surgery cover
What’s on this page
- About this Treatment
- Before & Afters
- What to Expect
- FAQs
- Our Clinics
- Things to Consider
- Patient Stories
- Why the Private Clinic
- Meet the Surgeons
- Related Blogs & News
Medically reviewed by Lorcan Sheppard BSc MBBS FRCA, Chief Medical Officer and the Medical Advisory Committee for The Private Clinic.
Last Reviewed May 17th 2022
Related Cosmetic Surgery
If you feel you have always wanted a larger breast size, or a larger breast shape, or after pregnancy, breast feeding or weight loss you feel your breasts have lost volume, shape or size, then a breast augmentation (breast enlargement) at The Private Clinic might be the procedure for you.
Your personalised journey starts with our team of expert Consultant breast surgeons, our friendly nurses and our 5 star hospitals.
Our breast team understand the importance of your decision and work hard to give you reassurance and honest advice. This means you will have thorough information on breast implant choice, size, shape and texture. This also includes information on advanced procedure types (such as under or over the muscle) and using the Keller funnel system. Seeing your confidence and happiness after your operation is what we work hard to achieve.
In British Association of Aesthetic Surgeons (BAAPS) 2021 annual audit, Breast Augmentation or breast implants surgery accounted for 4,023 procedures and was rated the top cosmetic surgery procedure for 2021.
Breast augmentation (known as a boob job or breast implants) is the UK’s most popular cosmetic surgery procedure for women. Breast enlargement involves the surgical addition of implants to improve the shape, size, fuller appearance, or more symmetrical look of your breasts.
At The Private Clinic, breast augmentation is performed by some of the UK’s top consultant plastic surgeons who have decades of experience. We have dedicated clinics in London Harley Street, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Buckinghamshire (virtual consultation only) and Northampton.
Procedure Time
1 – 2 hours
Anaesthetic Type
General Anaesthetic
Hospital Stay
Day Case
Support Garment
Surgical Bra – 6 weeks
Washing
1 week
Sleeping
Elevated on back 6 weeks
Driving
1week
up & mobile
1 day
Sexual Activity
4 – 6 weeks
Back to Work
1 – 2 weeks
excercise
4 – 6 weeks
Travel
6 weeks
Full recovery Time
6 weeks
final results
6 – 12 months
Your breast augmentation decisions
There is an entire range of options and decisions that you will be required to make for your breast enlargement procedure. Our breast surgeons are experts in helping you to understand the differences and pros and cons for each one so that you can make an informed decision.
There are many different reasons why patients choose to have breast enlargement surgery. These include personal preferences and lifestyle changes. A breast enlargement procedure is most suitable for patients with small boobs / breasts. Common reasons include:
- Increase fullness and/or size of breasts.
- Breast asymmetry can be improved if different sizes are used.
- May improve sagging (an additional breast uplift may be needed for considerable sagging)
- Can help increase lost volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss.
- Feeling confident in your clothing.
There are several types of breast implants. The most commonly used are saline breast implants or silicone implants.
In the UK, silicone implants are the popular choice. Silicone is a safe and durable material that is able to achieve a natural look and feel to the breasts.
Saline implants are breast implants that are filled with sterile salt water. They are not commonly used in the UK. Saline implants are known to be more visible under the skin compared to silicone and can feel hard and firm.
Breast Implants are sized by CC which stands for cubic centimetres. Most patients have an idea in their mind about the cup size that they want to be, together with that information and after being measured, our expert surgeons can provide recommendations for which size of implant they feel is going to give the best result.
The same sized implant on two different patients can give hugely different results as it all relies on the patients existing breast tissue, body frame and the amount of available skin.
Breast Implant’s come in a variety of different shapes which will give different results. Round implants are the most popular choice in the UK as they are very well suited to the majority of patients. Round implants can give volume to both the upper and lower breast due to their spherical shape.
Teardrop implants or anatomical shaped implants are used when a more natural result is wanted. The implants will give more volume to the bottom of the breast and are ideal for patients who have very little natural breast tissue in order to achieve a natural result.
As well as different sizes and shapes, breast implants also come in a variety of different profiles. The most common four are low profile, medium profile, high profile, and extra high profile. The profile of a breast implant determines how wide the base of the breast implant is. The correct profile for the patient usually depends on the width of the chest so that the implant does not exceed the width of the breast giving an unnatural appearance.
Breast implant placement refers to where the breast implant sits within the chest, traditionally over (sub glandular) or under (submuscular) the breast muscle were the two options. Over or in front of the muscle is when breast implants are placed over the chest or pectoral muscles, it is the most straightforward option and is known to have a quicker recovery time. Under or below the muscle is when implants are placed below the pectoralis muscle. It is a common placement for patients who don’t have a huge amount of existing breast tissue to help achieve a more natural result.
However surgical techniques have advanced a lot since then and more often than not, what was known as under the muscle is actually being performed as a dual plane placement which is where the upper portion of the implant is placed under the pectoral muscle, but the lower portion is left uncovered. This variation lessens the risk of implants feeling high and tight on the chest and a less complicated procedure.
There are a selection of different breast implant incisions sites, but under the breast within the inframammary fold is the most commonly used in the UK. The majority of our surgeons use a Keller funnel to insert the implant meaning the incision is usually between 3-5cm. A Keller funnel is a device used by plastic surgeons to insert the breast implant into the chest pocket without the need to touch it. This reduces the risk of bacterial contamination as well as reducing the size of the incision required.
Other breast enlargement incisions include the arm pit (transanxillary Incision), nipple (periareolar incision) and belly button (trans-umbilical breast augmentation /TUBA).
The breast enlargement incision will be closed using dissolvable stitches which are commonly used in many medical procedures. This means you will not require the stitches to be taken out, but our team of nurses will be able to check on the stitches at your follow-up appointments should you feel concerned.
Patients who have asymmetric or tuberous breasts will require a more personalised approach to their breast enlargement surgery depending on what results they are hoping to achieve.
Our breast surgeons are very experienced in tailoring their procedures to ensure that patients get the best results. Patients may require additional breast uplift or reduction procedures or different sized implants to help correct the asymmetry.
Breast asymmetry or Tuberous Breasts can be corrected as part of a breast augmentation procedure however, complete symmetry cannot be guaranteed after any type of breast surgery procedure.
See Maisie’s exciting patient story and amazing results.
as seen in
Before & After
What to Expect
The Private Clinic has been treating patients for over 35 years with thousands of women placing their trust in us each year. We pride ourselves on being able to offer a personalised service. We have a team of friendly nurses and expert breast surgeons who understand the importance of this decision and will support you throughout your journey with us.
The Consultation
Your first step on your breast enlargement journey is to meet with one of our best breast implant surgeons.
At your consultation they will be able to provide information on:
- The types of breast implants available
- The difference between tear-drop and round implants.
- Whether you want the breasts implants under or over the muscle.
- The ideal breast size and shape that will best suit your frame
Your surgeon will then:
- Review your medical history
- Examine and measure your breasts
- Recommend an implant type, size and position
- Discuss your expectations from surgery
- Detail the risks and complications of breast enlargement surgery
- Go through the aftercare and recovery process
Some of our surgeons will also perform a Crisalix 3D Imaging Scan to show you what the proposed procedure will look like so that shape and size of implants can be decided upon before the procedure takes place. (Available at our Harley Street, Buckinghamshire and Northampton clinics)
You will then be allocated a dedicated patient coordinator who will be your point of contact should you wish to go ahead with the procedure.
During your journey you may decide to have a number of consultations with your plastic surgeon and their nursing team before deciding to go ahead with surgery.
Pre-Operative Appointment
In the interests of patient safety all our patients are assessed against our patient selection criteria. Following your breast enlargement consultation your medical history will be reviewed and the pre-operative nurse will advise on pre-operative tests which are going to be most appropriate to you. Most breast enlargement pre-operative assessments include a blood test, MRSA swabs, urine test and a blood pressure test.
They will also advise you of any precautions you need to take in the days or weeks leading up to your breast enlargement procedure and advise on any medication that you should stop taking ahead of your procedure.
Breast Enlargement Surgery
On the day of your operation the medical team will ensure you are comfortable. Your breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthetic and will take 1 hour. You will be given an admission time which usually involves you arriving an hour before the agreed start time of surgery.
Once admitted:
- The nursing team will record your blood pressure and prep you for surgery.
- You will meet with the breast surgeon who will go through the procedure again and answer any questions.
- Pre-operative photos will be taken.
- Your chest will be marked up ready for surgery.
The Procedure
- General anaesthetic will be administered by the anaesthesiologist.
- Your breast surgeon will make a 3-5cm incision in the skin usually in the inframammary fold.
- A pocket will be created within the breast for the implant to be placed within, this will be either between the breast tissue and chest muscle (over) or behind the chest wall muscle (under).
- An implant sizer may be used to help create the pocket and compare implant sizes.
- The majority of our plastic surgeons will use the Keller Funnel™ device to place the implant into the breast pocket. This specialist medical device means that the implant is not touched during the procedure and is a less traumatic insertion method for silicone gel implants. The use of a keller funnel also means patients will have a shorter incision length compared to implants that are inserted by hand.
- The incision will then be closed with dissolvable stitches and covered with tape.
- A surgical bra will then also be placed onto the patient which will need to be worn during your recovery period.
- You will then be taken to recover in a recovery room for 1-3 hours.
- Once the surgeon and nursing team are happy that you are safe you return home, you will be discharged and allowed to leave accompanied by a family member or friend.
After your breast procedure
A member of our nursing team will call you usually the day following your procedure to ensure you are feeling comfortable and recovering. You will have been given details of our dedicated on-call nursing team who can be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week should you have any worries or concerns during your recovery time.
We advise that you take a 1-2 weeks off work to recover. The week following your procedure you should be resting and taking it easy. Please do not spend all your time stationery, it is important to keep active and make sure to get up for regular short walks but do not try to do too much. You should arrange for someone to help you around the house and to help with childcare if necessary.
Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for 4-6 weeks post procedure and your surgeon will be able to advise you on this.
You will be required to attend a series of follow-up appointments at The Private Clinic with a nurse and then a 6 week check-up appointment with your surgeon. At this stage you should be back to your everyday activities and your surgeon will be able to advise you on anything that you are unsure of or have questions about.
Finance Available
FAQs
Deciding where your breast implants are placed during breast augmentation surgery is decided by your surgeon and will be discussed in your consultation.
Over the muscle may also be referred to as above the muscle or subglandular and it is when the breast implant is placed in front of the pectoralis minor and pectoralis major muscles that sit in your chest. If you have a good amount of breast tissue then this option would be suitable for you as it will be able to help conceal the shape of the implant giving a more natural result.
Under the muscle is also referred to as behind the muscle or Dual Plane. Although called under the muscle, usually the implant is never placed completely under the muscle as this is a relatively old fashioned breast augmentation technique. Instead the implant is placed under the pectoralis major muscle in the upper breast but above the serratus anterior muscle in the lower breast. Under the muscle is more commonly referred to as being dual plane and is normally the most favoured of techniques. This option is best for patients who have little natural breast tissue as this method reduces the likelihood of your breast implants showing and gives a more natural looking result.
Our expert breast surgeons are experienced in recommending the best breast augmentation technique to help suit you and your desired results.
To book a consultation click here.
The size and shape of a woman’s bust can cause a great feeling of unhappiness and insecurity. In cases like these, a breast augmentation is a great way to provide both a safe and convenient solution to help restore confidence.
There are many reasons why our patients decide to go ahead with breast augmentation but here at The Private Clinic we have a team of expert breast surgeons using the best techniques to help provide you with the results that you wish to achieve. All patients are handled with sensitivity and discretion.
If you are over 18 years old, in good health and generally feeling fit and well then you will be suitable for a breast augmentation. However, in some cases, a breast augmentation may not be suitable for the results that you are expecting and in such cases an alternative or combined surgery method may be advised.
The best way to ascertain your suitability for any type of surgery is to book a consultation to speak with your chosen surgeon.
To book a consultation with our highly experienced surgeons click here.
The right implant for you will be decided on by one of our expert breast surgeons. Your chosen breast implant will take into consideration your natural breast size and your body shape and frame.
It is not possible to give an idea of one type of breast implant as different implant sizes, shapes and profiles will not all look the same on every patient. For each implant there are usually up to 4 different profiles which range from low to extra high and these decide on how much of the implant projects away from the chest wall. A low profile will usually deliver more of a subtle or natural result but in certain cases the surgeon may advise that you go for a higher profile implant so that your breasts will be more in proportion to your body, therefore achieving a more natural result.
Your surgeon will then discuss implant placement, usually for patients wanting a more natural implant result the implant will be placed below the muscle as this allows for more natural breast tissue to sit on top of the implant but in some cases it may be more appropriate to go an over the muscle option as that it what will suit your body the best.
Taking care of your new breasts post-surgery will also have a big impact on the final result so it is very important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare advice to help you achieve the most natural result.
We have an expert team of surgeons and nurses who will ensure that you receive the best advice both pre and post procedure to give you the best results. To book a consultation click here or to find out more about the different types of breast implants view our breast augmentation video series here.
The Private Clinic guides thousands of woman every year through their breast enlargement journey. We are committed to Medical Expertise, Patient Care and Satisfaction, Honest advice and most importantly the best breast enlargement results.
The Private Clinic ensures you have the best cover and quality which includes;
- A consultation with your specialist breast surgeon.
- 24 hour patient helpline to ensure you are always in the best of hands.
- Three years cover for all surgical, hospital and nursing care, in case of any medical issue giving you peace of mind.
- The Private Clinic offers a unique warranty of £1000 towards surgical costs in case of rupture for 10 years from the date of your operation.
- Comprehensive Breast Enlargement Patient Guide.
- Highly experienced Cosmetic Breast Surgeons who have decades of experience.
- Outstanding hospital facilities.
- As many post-operative care and appointments with your surgeon and nursing team as required.
- Our experience and medical expertise makes your journey a reassuring one click here to find out more
Breast enlargement cost can be part of your decision to undergo a procedure but it should never be the deciding factor. Breast augmentation costs start from £5,800, it is an all inclusive procedure cost, with no hidden extras. Plus we have the best cover. See our comprehensive before and after photos and start your journey today.
Book a consultation or request information.
Consultations with our breast surgeons are £100 at our clinics in London Harley Street, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Northampton.
We offer consultations with our highly experienced Patient Coordinators which require a £25 refundable deposit to secure your place. These are available in Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Northampton.
Patient coordinators are able to offer you all the information you require prior to meeting a surgeon.
All consultations available at our London Harley Street clinic are with a plastic surgeon.
Our surgeons at The Private Clinic will be more than happy to show you a selection of before and after photos of the procedure you are considering at your consultation.
We do also have a breast augmentation before and after photo gallery for you to view on our website by clicking here.
Our team of expert surgeons will be happy to answer all of your questions. Click here to book a consultation.
Breast Augmentation Consultations are Available in these Clinics
Things to Consider
Our advice on what to consider when deciding to have a breast enlargement (boob job) procedure:
1. When choosing a clinic, you should always do your research, and only go to an established, reputable clinic.
The Private Clinic has been in the cosmetic surgery industry for over 35 years. We are here to answer all of your questions and give you peace of mind.
2. When choosing a surgeon, make sure you know who you’ll be seeing. Their expertise, qualifications and patient satisfaction rate are important factors to take into consideration.
At The Private Clinic, we only source the most experienced and specialised surgeons. Find out more about our plastic surgeons here.
3. Price should never be the deciding factor when choosing where to have your treatment. Safety should be your number one priority and feeling confident that they will look after you – not only before, but also after your procedure
4. When it sounds too good to be true, it often is. Always find out what implants are going to be used and what your clinic’s reputation is.
Our surgeons use the highest quality CE Mark and FDA approved implants to ensure the very best results and safety standards.
Our excellent reputation for patient safety and satisfaction, honest advice and outstanding care means your journey with The Private Clinic will be an exciting experience to a newfound shape.
Patient Stories
Outstanding care, patient satisfaction and results mean everything to The Private Clinic Team
To discuss breast shape, sizes, under or over the muscle placement or any other questions book a phone or video consultation.
Why Choose The Private Clinic
- We provide a 10 year implant warranty with £1000 towards your surgical costs.
- Expert Cosmetic surgeons, see our before and after results here.
- Dedicated care with your expert breast surgeon and nursing team, and a 24 hour help line.
- Peace of mind with our personal three-year aftercare breast cover.
- The Private Clinic covers a lifetime guarantee on your implant.
- We have state of the art hospital facilities.
- All of the breast options are discussed not just one type of implant. So you will be happy with your shape.
Meet our Surgeons
We have a dedicated Plastic Surgeon and medical team who will be with you throughout your journey.
At The Private Clinic breast augmentation is performed by some of the UK’s top consultant plastic surgeons who have decades of experience.
MBBS, MSc, FRCS (Plast.)
GMC Number : 3286812
BSc, MB ChB (Hons), MD FRCS (Plast), MicroSurg. (Hons), ORL H&NSurg
GMC Number: 4686602
FRCS (Plast.)
GMC Number : 4764599
BS, MD
GMC Number : 6130664
BSc, MB ChB (Hons), MD FRCS (Plast)
GMC Number: 4404969
MBBS, MD & Surg (Hons), FRCS (Eng)
GMC Number: 3700956
MA(Cantab) MB BChir MSEd FRCS
GMC Number : 4767420
