Mr Christopher West, plastic surgeon Book a consultation
Mr Christopher West in blue scrubs and a red theatre cap, arms folded, in an operating theatre.

Breast augmentation

Breast implants to increase the size of the breasts and improve their shape.

Book a consultation Questions and answers

The operation

Breast augmentation, often referred to as breast enlargement or “boob job”, remains the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the UK. Breast augmentation with implants can increase the size of the breasts and improve their shape, which can have a profound impact on your body image and self-esteem.

Some people are unhappy with the way the size and shape of their breasts have developed. For others the change in size and shape is a result of life events such as pregnancy or weight loss.

At your consultation with Mr West, your hopes and expectations from surgery will be discussed. Mr West will explain the procedure and discuss the different techniques and implants available.

In theatre
2 hours
Anaesthetic
General
Downtime
2 weeks
Exercise
4 to 6 weeks
Price
From £6,995
Suited to
Patients wishing to increase the size and improve the shape of their breasts.
How it works
Implants are placed on top of the muscle or partly under it (dual plane).
The result
An increase in the size of the breasts and an improved shape.
Mr West talking a patient through her consultation in clinic.

Step by step

From the first consultation to your recovery.

  1. Your consultation

    Book a consultation online or call the team. Consultations are in York and Leeds, with virtual consultations for patients travelling from further afield.

  2. The day of surgery

    You will meet the consultant anaesthetist, who will discuss the anaesthetic with you.

    Mr West will draw markings on your chest to plan the procedure and the incisions. Once in theatre and asleep, Mr West will make small cuts in the crease under your breast. Through this a pocket for the implant is created. When the implants have been inserted Mr West will check to ensure he is happy with the size and shape of the breasts.

    The incision is closed with absorbable sutures and covered with Steri-Strips (thin plasters) and a small dressing. A support garment is put on to provide comfort and support as the wounds heal.

  3. Recovery

    Following surgery you will be transferred to the recovery area and looked after by our dedicated recovery team. We will make sure all aftercare is explained and follow-up appointments are arranged before you leave.

What patients say

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Frequently asked questions

The questions patients ask most often. Anything specific to one patient is covered at the consultation.

How are breast implants selected?

Mr West only uses implants from manufacturers he trusts, backed up with years of follow-up data on safety and durability. At your consultation Mr West will assess your breasts, your chest dimensions and your body shape. He will discuss your aims from enlargement surgery and how best to achieve this. Mr West will then discuss the size and shape of implants to get the right one for you.

Do you put implants over or under the muscle?

There are many different techniques used for breast enlargement, which Mr West will discuss with you. Thin people with smaller breasts often get a more natural-looking result by placing the implant partly under the muscle (dual plane). People with fuller breasts may get a better result with implants on top of the muscle.

What are the follow-up or aftercare procedures?

The initial review and wound check is usually 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. A further review appointment is usually made 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.

When can I start playing sports again?

Light activity is fine after 2 weeks and it is important to keep your shoulders moving. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

Do implants last forever?

Breast implants are very durable and manufactured to exceptionally high standards. However, they eventually will need replacing due to a variety of different reasons. You should therefore consider the need for and cost of further surgery in the future.

Can I still breastfeed after breast enlargement?

Yes. There is no reason why breast enlargement surgery should prevent you from breastfeeding.

When can I shower?

Your dressings are showerproof and therefore it is fine to shower the day after surgery. Mr West recommends dabbing your dressings dry with a towel after your shower. Baths should be avoided until the dressings have been removed.

Book a consultation

A consultation with Mr West covers the anatomy, what surgery can realistically achieve and the risks involved. A fixed written quote follows afterwards.

Surgery is only planned after this assessment, with time to reflect before any decision. Virtual consultations are available for patients travelling from further afield.

Book a consultation
A patient is welcomed at the reception desk of the Coppergate Clinic in York.