Breast augmentation involves making a small incision on the chest wall to insert a breast implant into a space either behind the breast tissue, or behind the muscle on which the breast sits, in order to enlarge the volume. The best technique will be decided together between the patient and the surgeon during the consultation.
The surgery is commonly performed as in inpatient procedure with an overnight stay to help ensure you are well and comfortable after your surgery and anaesthetic. Breast implants are typically composed of silicone gel encased in a silicone shell. The contents of these implants are described as a cohesive gel, this means the consistency is more like a jelly rather than liquid.
In some circumstances, particularly those requiring breast reconstruction an inflatable implant may be used to allow the surgeon to adjust the level of inflation to attain breast symmetry and balance. Surgery typically lasts from 1 to 2 hours.