This well tried and tested procedure gives women the opportunity to enlarge and reshape their breasts. Implants are made of a medical grade silicone plastic "envelope" containing silicone gel or in some cases saline. Special implants are designed for breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Dr Haertsch can advise you on which size implant is suitable for your individual requirements.

Under a general anaesthetic, a small incision is made to place the implant behind your own breast tissue. In some women, the implant needs to be placed behind the pectoralis muscle of the chest wall rather than in front, but this is dependent on your body shape. This will be discussed at the time of consultation. Any asymmetry existing prior to surgery will persist after breast augmentation but this will also be discussed with you prior to surgery.

Breast augmentation is performed as a day only procedure and recovery time is variable with each patient, but we generally advise at least one week off work and limited activity for a further 2-3 weeks. Gym activity and heavier lifting will be restricted for a longer period to avoid dislodgement of the implant, but even these activities can be resumed after about 6 weeks.