Breast Augmentation

The initial consultation is an opportunity for Mr Patel to understand your concerns, motivations and goals, and to assess whether breast enlargement is appropriate for you. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, medications, weight and smoking status, as well as any previous breast surgery or family history of breast cancer. A clinical examination of the breasts and chest is carried out, with measurements and photographs taken as part of the planning process and medical record. Mr Patel may use implant sizers, diagrams and, where appropriate, imaging or photographs to help you visualise different size ranges and shapes. You are encouraged to discuss desired size and style, bring photographs that reflect your preferences, and ask questions about implant choice, scar position, recovery and long-term changes.

A second consultation allows you to revisit and confirm the plan, including implant type, pocket position, incision site and size range, and to ensure that all your questions have been answered. The impact on future screening, mammography, breastfeeding and exercise will be reviewed, along with anaesthetic considerations and your recovery timeline. There is no pressure to proceed, and additional appointments can be arranged if you need more time or discussion before making a final decision. In some cases, particularly where body image concerns are complex, Mr Patel may recommend collaborative care with your GP or a psychologist to support holistic decision-making.

Smoking and nicotine (including vaping and nicotine replacement products) significantly increase the risk of wound problems, infection, and loss of skin or nipple tissue. Mr Patel strongly advises stopping well before surgery — ideally 4–6 weeks — and continuing to avoid nicotine throughout your recovery.

• Maintain a balanced diet, good hydration and gentle regular activity in the weeks before surgery.
• Avoid heavy alcohol intake and crash dieting, as these can impair healing.
• Arrange practical support at home for the first 1–2 weeks.
• If you develop a new illness close to your surgery date, contact the team, as it may be safer to postpone.

When it is time for your operation, you will be escorted to the operating theatre. Breast enlargement is performed under general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep and comfortable throughout.

After surgery, you will wake in the recovery area, where your breathing, pain and comfort are closely monitored before you return to the ward. Your breasts will feel firm and swollen, and there may be bruising across the chest. You will be given appropriate pain relief and encouraged to start gentle mobilisation. Most patients go home the same day or after one night in hospital. Before discharge, you will receive written aftercare instructions, advice about your bra and dressings, medication, and clear contact details for any urgent concerns.

• Pain and bruising begin to settle, although some tenderness and firmness of the breasts is common.
• Many patients feel able to return to light or desk-based work after 1–2 weeks.
• Continue wearing the support bra, and avoid strenuous upper-body activity.
• You can usually return to driving once you are able to move your arms comfortably and tolerate the pressure of a seatbelt.

• Swelling continues to improve, and the breast shape becomes softer and more natural as the implants settle.
• Scars may remain pink and slightly raised but will gradually fade and flatten over time.