Often referred to as a 'boob job' breast enlargements surgery or breast implant surgery is becoming a very popular kind of plastic surgery. You have genetics to thank originally for the size of your breasts, although once developed they may fluctuate in size in response to weight change, pregnancy and breast feeding and this is where a boob job or breast implants can come in.

Our 'boob job' and breast enlargements guide takes you on a step-by-step journey through the surgery before, during and after the plastic surgeon has done his or her stuff...

Name of plastic surgery procedure: Breast enlargements (implants and augmentation) or 'boob job'

Part(s) of body affected: Breasts

Condition addressed: You have genetics to thank originally for the size of your breasts, although once developed they may fluctuate in size in response to weight change, pregnancy and breast feeding.

Age also causes the shape of your breasts to change so they gradually droop (called ptosis). Most women have breasts of slightly different sizes, but occasionally a very marked difference may develop.

Breast enlargements benefits: Breast enlargement, reconstruction, and correction of uneven breasts.

Suitable:
? If you want to correct the size difference between your breasts.
? If you feel your breasts are too small.
? If you want to correct the volume of your breasts after pregnancy or weight loss.
? If you were treated for breast cancer you may be offered reconstructive surgery as part of your treatment.

Surgical Procedure: Breasts can be made larger by placing an breast implant either under the breast tissue or behind the muscle on which the breast lies. A breast implant is made of an outer layer of silicone, but may be filled with silicone gel, salt water or soya bean oil.

Some breast implants are round and others are shaped more like a natural breast. Either can give excellent results. Implants are usually inserted through incisions in the inframammary fold. Alternatively, the incisions may be made around the areola or in the armpit.

Pre-op: If you smoke you may be asked to quit as this increases your risk of getting a wound infection and slow your recovery.

As with all general anesthetic procedures you will be asked not to eat or drink for about six hours before the operation.

On the day: The procedure, performed under a general anesthetic, usually takes one to two hours and can be performed as a day case. Although sometimes an overnight stay is required.

Recovery time: Following a 'boob job' you will have stitching and a dressing in place. You may have drainage tubes in your breasts, which are usually removed the day after surgery. Your breasts should be well supported for several weeks.

Your plastic surgeon will advise you what sort of bra to wear. Dissolvable stitches disappear in seven to 10 days. Non-dissolvable stitches are usually removed after seven days. You will have scars that are noticeable at first but should fade gradually. Follow your plastic surgeons advice regarding when you can return to work, drive, lift heavy objects etc.

Breast enlargements results: Your breasts will feel sore, firm and swollen at first and will take several weeks to settle into their new shape before forming a more natural feel and position.

Potential risks or side effects: Breast enlargements is generally safe. However, complications that occur include those associated with all forms of plastic surgery, as well as the specific problems of bleeding and infection. Any infection that may occur in the tissue around the implant can usually be treated with antibiotics, but may require surgical removal of the breast implant.

There can be complications concerning silicone leakage, breast size, shape and feel, X-ray screening, fluid movement and scars.

Length of benefit of breast implants: The manufacturers life expectancy of breast implants is 10 or more years, although implants can stay in without problems for a much longer time.

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