A Guide to Different Breast Augmentation Procedures

Breast augmentation surgery has been commonplace for many years, with the first procedure taking place more than half a century ago in 1962. There are many reasons why people decide to undergo a breast augmentation, from increasing the shape and size of their breasts, to having reconstruction after an illness such as breast cancer. There is more than one way for breast augmentations to be carried out.

We have created this guide to different breast implant procedures to help those interested in breast augmentation understand the process and know which procedure will work best for them.

The different types of breast implant

In the UK, there are two main types of breast implant procedures that can be carried out. These procedures generally depend on the shape and feel of the breast that the patient wants to acquire as a result of the operation.

The two main types of breast augmentation are:

• Silicone/saline implant
• Fat transfer

These two main options for breast augmentation surgery both have their own pros and cons, and it is important to remember that no surgery is completely risk-free. One of these procedures may be more suitable for your needs than the other, so be sure to bear in mind as you read through our guide which one sounds more agreeable for you.

It is essential to fully research and understand the pros and cons of each option, and to talk through breast augmentation surgery with a certified and qualified surgeon before undergoing any procedure.

Implants

Using silicone or saline implants is the most well-known breast augmentation procedure. The operation involves:

• Making a cut in the skin, generally under the breast
• Positioning the implant - either between the breast tissue and chest muscle or behind the chest muscle
• Stitching the incision back up

You are normally able to go home the same day after having silicone/saline breast implants, as the procedure does not usually require an overnight stay in hospital.

Pros of implants

• Silicone and saline implants have been in use for many years, and produce a reliable and predictable change to a patient’s breast size. Due to the structure of the impants, this procedure has a high success rate in giving patients the desired size and shape breasts. This reliability makes them a good choice for those who want a more filled and defined look.
• The safety of silicone and saline implants has continued to increase and their design has improved over the years. They are now thought to feel much more natural.
• In addition to their improved design and reliability, silicone and saline implants are quite cost-effective.
• If there are any issues with the breast implants, they can be removed quickly to resolve the problem.

Cons of implants

• Implants carry a risk of a rupture or leakage within the breast pocket. To reduce this risk, implants are usually changed every 10-15 years. While this is obviously necessary for safety, it can be inconvenient and painful to have new implants put in when required.
• Although they are much safer than they used to be, implants still have a risk of becoming visible due to rippling and, in some extreme cases, can flip in the breast pocket. These risks are far more likely to occur if the implants are too large for the breast tissue, causing the implant to become unstable.
• Having implants can also cause capsular contracture, where scar tissue thickens around the implant, resulting in implant distortion and hardening.
• There is also the risk of having an allergic reaction to the implant.
• Due to the invasive surgery required to insert the implants, patients can sometimes be left with visible scars. These will usually heal over time, but every body heals differently, so there is always a risk of the scars healing poorly.

Fat transfer breast augmentation

Fat transfer breast augmentations use your own body tissue to augment the breast. The fat is usually taken from:

• Stomach
• Flanks
• Back
• Thigh

Once the fat has been taken from elsewhere in your body, it is then generally injected back into your breasts. Some swelling may occur as the fat settles in your body.

Pros of fat transfer

• Fat transfer uses your own body fat to augment the breast, which is the safest and most natural filling material. Your body will not reject your own fat, as it has already come from inside your body. This also means that there is no risk for allergic reactions as you are using your own body tissue.
• Using your brown natural fat will result in a more natural look and feel to your breasts, compared to how they would feel with silicone or saline implants.
• As the fat is generally injected into your breasts, there is virtually no scarring with this procedure.
• Unlike implants that require replacement every 10-15 years, a fat transfer breast augmentation is relatively low maintenance and needs no replacement, as it is not a danger to your body.
• Due to the fat being transferred from elsewhere in your body, there will be a side effect of body contouring. If the fat has been taken from an area such as your stomach, you will be able to benefit from having a smaller stomach due to the fat being removed from this area.

Cons of fat transfer

Although a fat transfer breast augmentation may seem like a safer option compared to implants, there are still cons that must be considered.

• The cost is generally considerably higher than silicone/saline implants. This is because the procedure is split into two surgeries: the liposuction to initially remove the fat from a specific part of your body, and the second procedure to redistribute the fat into your breasts.
• Patients who are seeking a noticeable difference to the size of their breasts may be disappointed by the results. Fat transfers do not offer the same shape and sturdiness that implants can provide.
• The liposuction that removes the fat from your body can be quite a dangerous procedure to undergo, and in rare instances can cause:
  • Bleeding under the skin
  • Persistent numbness that lasts for months
  • A build-up of fluid in the lungs
  • Blood clots on the lungs
  • Damage to internal organs
• Fat necrosis (death of fat cells) can also occur. Fat necrosis happens when the fat does not get enough oxygenated blood during the transfer process, which causes fat cells to die. Dead fat cells can form bubbles and lumps in your breast tissue, which can lead to:
  • Oily cystic lumps
  • Scar tissue
  • Pain in the surrounding tissue

Often, lumps from fat necrosis are resolved on their own, but if the lumps are causing the patient considerable pain, they will need to be removed.

• Fat reabsorption can also become an issue. Fat is a natural substance that the body uses to operate on a daily basis, and the body will treat the fat transferred to the breasts the same as it would with any other fat. This means that the body can potentially reabsorb the fat used in a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure. In fact, it is thought that up to 50% of the injected fat is absorbed by your body. This means that, although you may initially achieve your desired breast size, the breast can decrease in size over time.

It is important to recognise that there are pros and cons to both types of breast augmentation procedures. Implants appear to give a better shape, are generally cheaper, and have no risk of being reabsorbed, whereas fat transfers have the ability to be reabsorbed by the body, but have no chance of being rejected by the body. For more information on whether or not silicone/saline breast implants are safe, read our blog. 

Talk to Us

At Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, we take pride in being able to help people who are not satisfied with their cosmetic procedures. If you have been victim of negligent cosmetic surgery, we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Learn more about making a breast surgery compensation claim here.

We are one of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery claims and beauty negligence solicitors. Contact us today for a call with one of our experts on 0808 252 0175, or fill in our online contact form to request a callback.

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.