Breast augmentation (aka a boob job) is our most frequently performed procedure. Dr Frati performs about 80 of these surgeries each month. As the majority of our enquiries are related to boob jobs we have put together some useful advice based on our patients’ most frequently asked questions.
Please note that this advice is for general guidance only and should be treated as such. All surgeries are unique and you should refer to your own surgical team for advice that is specific to you.
1. How long does breast augmentation / enlargement take?
All surgeries are different but generally speaking this type of operation usually takes about an hour to complete. You should also allow for recovery time following the operation.
2. Will I need a general anaesthetic?
Yes, these surgeries are carried out under general anaesthetic?
3. Will I need to be admitted to hospital?
In many cases your surgery can be completed as a day case. Therefore, unless there are any complications, you will be able to go home after your operation. In some instances you may need to stay overnight but this can be discussed with your surgeon.
4. How safe are the implants?
Dr Frati uses breast implants that are approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) and the FDA (The US Food and Drug Administration).
5. Will I experience any pain?
You may experience some pain or discomfort in the weeks following your surgery. However, this can be managed by pain killers. Your surgeon will advise on this.
6. How will I sleep after surgery?
the first week you should sleep on your back, face upwards. If possible, try and keep your head and shoulders raised.
7. What do I need to do following surgery?
You will be advised to wear a well-fitting sports type, full cup bra, day and night for at least four-six weeks. If your implants are under the muscle, you will be provided with a breast band which should be worn day and night for two weeks.
8. Can I bathe and shower as usual?
You should avoid getting the wound wet. This means not washing or bathing around the wound for two weeks. You may shower after the sutures are removed.
9. When will the sutures be removed?
Usually the sutures are dissolvable but patients return after a week for a wound check and a dressing change.
10. Is there anything else I should be aware of post-surgery?
You will need to put skin-friendly adhesive tape on your scars for six weeks following the surgery. You should avoid direct sunlight and exposure to sun beds for one year, as this will cause your scars to remain red and thick. Under-wired bras should not be worn for three months following your surgery.
11. Will I be able to drive after surgery?
You should not drive for seven days after surgery, unless you are told otherwise.
12. How long is the recovery period?
You should rest at home for the first week after surgery and limit your upper arm activities. There should be no lifting or housework for two weeks. Walking is allowed. You can usually expect to work yourself back to normal within three to four weeks, apart from certain strenuous activities (see below).
13. What about exercise?
No gym exercises for four weeks. After one week you may resume most normal activities, except for strenuous exercise such as tennis, golf, swimming, etc. Most exercises can be resumed after four-six weeks.
14. How soon after the operation can I consume alcohol?
You should avoid alcohol for 48 hours after surgery as this can increase the risk of post- operative bleeding.
We would like to stress again that all surgeries are different. Therefore this advice should be treated as a general guide only. If you have any questions you should refer to your own surgical team.
If you’re thinking about undergoing breast augmentation surgery and would like to discuss this further, please phone 0203 633 2619.