Over the course of the pandemic, demand for cosmetic procedures rose, with many surgeries and providers noting a surge in enquiries. Moreover, according to Google Trends, the number of people searching for “breast reduction surgery” has been rising steadily in different countries, says CNN.
Cosmopolitan reveals that in 2019 alone, about 300,000 women underwent breast implant augmentations. This is a whopping 41% increase from 2000. And what – or rather, who – is driving this? “Gen Z and millennial women, who make up nearly 70 percent of breast implant surgeries.”
And this only looks set to increase further, with Fortune Business Insights recently reporting that ”the global breast implants market size [is]…projected to grow from USD 3.27 billion in 2023 to USD 5.34 billion by 2030”.
If you’ve been considering such a procedure, then it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, regarding deliberation and knowledge of the risks involved before moving forward. Here’s what you should know.
Common Reasons Why People Get Implants Or Augmentation
There are many reasons that women choose to have breast implants and it’s often largely an emotional decision. As with any decision guided by emotion, caution is recommended.
As the NHS states, ”Having a breast enlargement is a big decision. It’s major surgery, the results are not guaranteed and there are some risks to think about’’. Read more about whether cosmetic surgery is right for you on the NHS website here.
Implants Don’t Last Forever
Contrary to popular misconception, implants don’t last forever. In fact, the average breast implant can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years. However, as Healthline reports ‘’Up to 20 percent of people have their implants removed or replaced within 8 to 10 years.” The reason for this is often down to cosmetic concerns or complications.
There Are Different Types Of Breast Implant…
There are two main types of breast implant; silicone and saline gel. There are pros and cons to each. Generally speaking, silicone looks and feels more natural, but if the implant ruptures and the gel leaks out, it can lead to hardening and/or lumps. On the other hand, if a saline implant ruptures, your body will absorb the saline solution.
Cohesive gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are another option. They have a super thick linking, and, as such, are less likely to rupture or leak. Moreover, they are better at retaining their shape. Be aware that with these implants, the incision does need to be larger, however.
It should be noted that, as with any cosmetic procedure, and regardless of the type of implant you choose, things can go wrong.
…& Different Types Of Procedure
Breast augmentation encompasses a variety of surgical procedures designed to enhance the size, shape, and appearance of the breasts. Apart from breast implants, here are some other types of breast augmentation procedures:
- Fat Grafting (Autologous Fat Transfer): This procedure involves transferring fat from one area of the body (typically the abdomen, hips, or thighs) to the breasts. The fat is first harvested using liposuction, then processed and re-injected into the breasts to enhance their size and shape.
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): This surgery does not increase the size of the breasts but improves their overall appearance by lifting and reshaping sagging breasts. It can be performed in conjunction with implants or fat grafting.
- Breast Reduction: Although technically not a form of augmentation, breast reduction surgery reshapes the breasts to make them smaller and more comfortable for women who experience physical discomfort or self-consciousness due to overly large breasts.
- Stem Cell Breast Augmentation: This technique uses the patient’s stem cells combined with fat grafting to increase the size of the breasts. It’s a newer method, with research still ongoing.
- Natural Breast Augmentation: This procedure is also based on fat transfer, using body fat to enhance the size of the breasts without the use of implants.
- Breast Reconstruction: This is performed after mastectomy (breast cancer surgery) to restore the shape and appearance of the breasts. This procedure may use implants, autologous tissue, or a combination of both.
- Areola Reduction: This is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The procedure for areola reduction can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or in conjunction with other breast augmentation surgeries, such as breast lift or breast reduction. Areola reduction can help achieve a more balanced, natural-looking breast aesthetic for individuals who feel their areolas are disproportionately large for their breasts.
It’s important to have a detailed consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to understand which procedure is best suited for your goals and health status.
Where Implants Are Placed Matters
As Glamour explains, “The implant is usually placed either above or below the muscle. Above the muscle means it’s less invasive – the implant is placed on top of your pectoral muscle and below the skin”. However, they go on to say that this type of placement can ‘’look more ‘fake’ on slender girls with thinner flesh on their chest.”
Recovery Time Can Vary
After having breast implant surgery, it typically takes around six to twelve weeks for a full recovery. However, this can vary depending on the individual and the type of procedure they have undergone.
For the first 24 to 48 hours post-surgery, you might feel tired and sore. Pain medication is frequently prescribed to manage this discomfort. This initial recovery period usually requires someone’s assistance at home.
After a few days, you should be able to move around more comfortably. While you should avoid strenuous activities, it’s essential to move around to prevent blood clots.
Around 1-2 weeks post-surgery, you might be able to return to work and resume most daily activities, provided they aren’t too physically demanding. You should still avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. The surgeon will usually provide specific guidelines about when you can take off the surgical bra and wear a soft, supportive bra instead.
After 4-6 weeks, you may be able to return to more vigorous activities and exercise, as long as your surgeon clears you for this. Still, high-impact exercises that cause excessive bouncing should be avoided for an additional few weeks to ensure the implants properly settle.
By 12 weeks post-surgery, most women will be fully recovered. Swelling should be gone by this point, and scars will start to fade, although they won’t disappear completely.
Remember that everyone heals at their own pace. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments.
Always Meet A Surgeon In Person First
If you’ve decided to have a cosmetic procedure, the next step is to choose who will do it. First of all, you need to check their certification, experience, websites, and customer reviews. Book a consultation with the person who will be performing the procedure in order to meet them face to face and discuss exactly what you expect from the process.
Scrutinise the surgeon and clinic. Are they up-front about the outcomes and risks? Are the staff welcoming and do they professionally handle your queries? Are they transparent about the fees? Are there any safety measures? (There unequivocally should be). What kind of sedation will be used?
Make a comprehensive list of all the questions you have and get them answered. It may be worth having a consultation with a few different surgeons to ensure you feel comfortable in your choice.
You also need to check that the surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and see if the surgeon is a “full member” of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).
You’ll Need To Pay For Follow-Up Care
Here in the UK, surgery for breast implants can range from around £3,500 to over £8,000. However, this fee does not include the cost of consultations prior to your procedure or follow up care after it. You also have to bear in mind that if there are any complications or you would like the implants removed at a later stage, this can cost you a lot of money.
The Bottom Line
Breast enlargement procedures produce long-lasting results, usually around ten years, but this will vary depending on the patient’s shape, size, type of implant, and other factors. Many patients also get their second or third breast enhancement surgery to maintain their profile with age. Whilst it is a procedure that can improve your confidence, it is important to maintain realistic expectations and ask the right questions before you get it done.
All cosmetic surgery procedures in the UK must take place in a hospital or clinic which has been registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which publishes ratings regarding the quality of care offered. You can check here to see if the clinic is registered; simply enter your postcode or the same of the clinic.
In addition, any cosmetic surgery in the UK must be performed by a registered doctor. You can check on the General Medical Council online register to see if the person carrying out your surgery is registered.
*Please note this blogpost is for general informational purposes only. It’s certainly not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Each individual’s body is unique, as are their health history and circumstances. Therefore, any decision to undergo a breast implant or augmentation should involve a thorough and personalised consultation with a qualified, reputable plastic surgeon who can advise you based on your specific situation.
Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or a board-certified plastic surgeon with any questions you may have regarding plastic surgery or any other medical condition or treatment.*