Breast Augmentation

What Is Breast Augmentation?

We invite you to learn more about breast augmentation surgery by exploring the informative sections provided below. You may also contact our office to schedule an appointment with our experienced Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr William Townley.

• Breast Augmentation Benefits
• Breast Augmentation Candidates
• Complementary Procedures to Breast Augmentation
• Breast Implant Options
• Breast Augmentation Procedure
• Composite Breast Augmentation
• Breast Augmentation Recovery
• Breast Augmentation Results
• Breast Augmentation Cost
• Breast Augmentation with Lift
• Choosing a Breast Augmentation Surgeon
• Additional Breast Augmentation FAQs

What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?

For women who desire larger, more shapely breasts, customised breast augmentation surgery performed by Mr Townley can be an excellent solution. Often, professionally-performed breast augmentation can achieve the following goals:

• A more balanced figure
• Enhanced curves
• Firmer, perkier breasts
• More noticeable cleavage
• Improved symmetry among the breasts
• A better fit in clothing and bathing suits
• A greater sense of body confidence
• Restored breast shape and volume

Who Is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

To determine whether you are a suitable candidate for breast augmentation, Mr Townley performs a comprehensive evaluation during the initial consultation. At this appointment, Mr Townley will review your cosmetic concerns, discuss your goals, perform a physical examination, and record your medical history. If you are a good candidate for surgery, he will explain the augmentation techniques and breast implant options that are available to you and suggest a surgical plan that can create a satisfying final outcome.

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Complementary Procedures to Breast Augmentation

Depending on your individual medical needs and aesthetic goals, Mr Townley may be able to combine your breast augmentation with another cosmetic surgery. While a breast lift (mastopexy) is a popular choice for patients who wish to improve the appearance of their bustline, Mr Townley is also proficient in a number of facial procedures, such as rhinoplasty, fat grafting, and eyelid rejuvenation that can easily be combined in one operation. During your consultation, Mr Townley will happily discuss any treatment that piques your interest.

What Are My Breast Implant Options?

Mr Townley uses top-of-the-range breast implants in a variety of sizes, shapes, and projections to create the personalised, natural-looking results his patients desire. When it comes to choosing the right implants for your breast augmentation, Mr Townley will take the time to explain all of your options, discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each type, and help you choose the implants that suit your frame and best align with your aesthetic goals. Mr Townley uses breast implant sizers for you to try on during the consultation to help you select the best option. These sizers will also give you the opportunity to experience what your results might look and feel like.

What Happens During Breast Augmentation?

Mr Townley generally performs breast augmentation surgery as a daycase procedure in hospital using general anaesthesia. The procedure typically takes about one and a half hours to complete. The details of your procedure will depend on the unique surgical plan Mr Townley has created for you. The implants are inserted through small, well-concealed incisions along the inframammary crease at the bottom fold of the breast. Through these incisions, Mr Townley creates a pocket for the breast implant either in front of the pectoral muscle (subfascial) or partly behind the pectoral muscle (dual-plane). When the pocket has been formed, the breast implant is inserted using a ‘no-touch’ technique. The pocket placement that is most suitable for you will depend upon the natural composition of your breasts, the type of implants you have selected, and the desired outcome. Once the implants are placed, the incisions are closed with dissolving sutures and patients are placed in a post-operative support bra provided by Mr Townley. Drains are not used routinely.

Composite Breast Augmentation: Combining Fat Transfer with Breast Implants for a Superior Result

Mr Townley has a special interest in fat transfer techniques and has developed an innovative approach to breast augmentation by combining fat grafting to the breasts with implants in one procedure. The fat is removed by liposuction (from the abdomen, flanks, and/or thighs), purified, and then injected into the desired area in the breasts. The implants provide the main increase in breast volume, whereas, the fat grafting is used to help achieve a more natural appearance, camouflage the implant, and/or enhance cleavage by reducing the midline gap. Fat grafting is also an excellent technique for improving breast asymmetry or enhancing the result of a previous breast augmentation.

What is Breast Augmentation Recovery Like?

Most patients go home on the day of surgery, although an overnight stay in hospital is possible if preferred. After breast augmentation surgery, you can expect to experience some discomfort and swelling for about one to two weeks, depending on the technique used to place your implants. Pain medication and cold compresses can help enhance your comfort during this time. Closely following post-operative instructions can assist in minimising discomfort, facilitating healing, and reducing the likelihood of complications. Most patients take at least a week off from work to rest and recuperate. Regular follow-up appointments with Mr Townley will allow him to track your recovery and address any emerging complications early. He will let you know when you are cleared to engage in more vigorous exercise and heavy lifting.

What Are the Typical Results of Breast Augmentation?

When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, breast augmentation can produce exceptional results that look both natural and beautiful. The ideal results of this procedure are fuller, firmer, more shapely breasts that meet the patient’s aesthetic goals while enhancing body proportions.

How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?

The average cost for breast augmentation surgery performed by Mr Townley is £8,500. The exact price for your breast augmentation procedure will depend upon the unique details of your surgical plan and the type of breast implants you choose. For a precise surgery estimate, a consultation with Mr Townley is required. After your appointment, an estimate will be calculated based on the customised treatment plan Mr Townley has designed. When you are presented with your estimate, you will have the opportunity to discuss payment options and surgical scheduling with our knowledgeable office team.

Will I Need a Breast Lift with My Breast Augmentation?

While breast augmentation on its own cannot provide the breasts with a “lift,” as would breast lift surgery, Mr Townley frequently combines these two surgeries for optimal enhancement of the bustline. When performed together, the procedure, known medically as an “augmentation mastopexy,” can provide the breasts with both upper pole fullness and a more youthful positioning with reduced “sag,” or ptosis. If you are interested in augmentation mastopexy, Mr Townley can determine your eligibility for this type of treatment after an initial evaluation.

How to Choose a Breast Augmentation Surgeon

We advise you to put your care in the hands of a distinguished surgeon for your breast augmentation. Your surgeon should have earned the title of Consultant Plastic Surgeon, which signifies they have completed the highest level of training. It is also wise to choose a surgeon who is affiliated with prestigious organisations, such as the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and has completed fellowships and conducted research at top institutions.

Mr Townley combines surgical finesse with a friendly, approachable demeanour. Not only is he well-versed in a variety of cosmetic surgical procedures, but he is also able to create a warm, compassionate environment for each patient. These qualifications make him a leading Consultant Plastic Surgeon in London and beyond.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation

Mr Townley is glad to answer any breast augmentation questions that may arise. Please explore these frequently asked questions and contact us with any additional inquiries you may have.

How much do breast implants weigh?

The precise weight of breast implants will vary upon the size and type of the implants, with saline implants generally weighing a bit more than silicone. In any case, the presence of implants should not substantially impact your weight or feel cumbersome.

What do breast implants feel like?

Modern implants are designed to look and feel as natural as possible. Prior to your procedure, Mr Townley will allow you to test out as many implants as needed before you discover a type that suits your needs. The ideal pair should look and feel virtually indistinguishable from your natural breast tissue.

What size breast implants are right for me?

While the size of the implants is an important factor to consider, Mr Townley also takes into account the effect the implants will have on the body’s overall proportions. Using our wide array of sizers and his extensive knowledge and experience, he will help you find a size that enhances your figure in the most effective and natural-looking way possible.

Are breast implants safe?

Breast augmentation is among the most popular cosmetic procedures performed worldwide, and today’s breast implant models have a very good safety record. With that in mind, no surgical procedure is without risk. An experienced and highly qualified Consultant Plastic Surgeon can minimise the potential for breast augmentation complications, and strict adherence to post-operative guidelines and attendance of follow-up appointments and breast screenings can also help reduce risks associated with breast implant procedures.

What is capsular contracture?

“Capsular contracture” refers to a buildup of fibrous scar tissue in the breast in reaction to the implant. This complication, however rare, can be highly uncomfortable, and may warrant explant (removal) surgery to solve the problem. Mr Townley will evaluate your risks for capsular contracture, which may include hematoma or past radiation therapy, before proceeding with surgery.

How long do breast implants last?

Generally, many patients have their breast implants for at least 10 years before an upgrade to a new implant model is recommended. Although today’s breast implants are designed to be incredibly resilient, the risk of rupture slightly increases as the years go by. While some patients have their breast implants for as long as 20 years, it is important to have regular screenings to detect any possible ruptures or complications, particularly in patients who have had their implants for many years.

Can I replace my old breast implants?

Yes. If the breast implants are showing signs of wear upon x-ray after several years or if a complication has arisen, or if a patient simply wants to upgrade to a different size or type, the implants can certainly be replaced. Mr Townley can help you choose a new implant type or size. Please note that Mr Townley has very rarely had to prematurely replace implants he placed himself.

Is breast augmentation painful?

As general anaesthesia will be administered, you are unlikely to feel any major discomfort during the surgery itself. With this in mind, you may experience some degree of tenderness and swelling in the weeks following the procedure, but these effects can typically be controlled by pain medication or the use of a cold compress.

What is the best age for breast augmentation?

While there is no minimum age requirement for breast augmentation, surgeons generally require patients to be at least 18 years old, and to have breasts that are fully developed. There is also no maximum age requirement, but please note that healing may be slower in patients older than 60.*

How should I sleep after breast augmentation?

Mr Townley typically advises patients to sleep on their back in the weeks following breast augmentation surgery. This can facilitate healing by keeping pressure and strain off of the chest. Because sleeping this way may feel unnatural at first, you may wish to support yourself using pillows until you find a comfortable position that is beneficial for healing.

What type of bra should I wear after breast augmentation?

Following your surgery, you will likely be directed to wear a post-surgical bra for a few weeks. These bras are designed to help implants “settle” into a permanent position and retain the improved contours achieved in the procedure. Mr Townley will prescribe a type of post-operative bra based on the individual characteristics (i.e., size, shape, and condition) of your breasts.

Will breast augmentation affect nipple sensitivity?

It is unlikely, but not impossible, for the nipples to permanently lose sensation after breast augmentation. You may experience numbness following the surgery, but this is usually temporary. As with any major procedure, your chances of a successful surgery are much higher when you entrust your care to a qualified Consultant Plastic Surgeon.*

Can I breastfeed with breast implants?

Patients who are naturally able to breastfeed before a breast augmentation procedure should still be able to nurse their children after the treatment; however, it is important to discuss this with Mr Townley so the treatment can be planned accordingly. Depending upon where the incisions are placed during surgery, it should still be possible to breastfeed with implants. It is important to note that some women are simply unable to breastfeed naturally, and augmentation will have no effect one way or the other for these patients. During your consultation, please let Mr Townley know about any plans to breastfeed later in life and he will take that into account when developing your treatment program.

Do you have questions about breast augmentation? Contact our office to learn more.

Medical Resources*

UK Health Centre
American Society of Plastic Surgeons