Book a Consultation
Back to Breast

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is the commonest cosmetic surgery procedures carried out worldwide. For many women considering breast augmentation, the intention is to make a pleasing difference to the size of their breasts, whilst maintaining as natural an appearance as possible.

Price From

£7969

Breast augmentation is the commonest cosmetic surgery procedures carried out worldwide. For many women considering breast augmentation, the intention is to make a pleasing difference to the size of their breasts, whilst maintaining as natural an appearance as possible.

About The Procedure

Development of the breasts, ageing, pregnancies, breast-feeding and gravity all contribute to the appearance of the breasts. Breast augmentation results in lifting and filling of the breasts. Sometimes breast augmentation surgery may need to be accompanied by a tightening of skin to further lift the breast – a mastopexy. Sometimes the mastopexy may need to be done as an adjunctive procedure, six months before or after the implant positioning.

Modern implants are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The decision about which to use is based upon the aesthetic goals of the patient, and the anatomical findings in each individual. It is important that women seeking breast augmentation discuss the sort of change they are expecting to make to their breast size, and what their personal aims are in undertaking such surgery. It should be remembered that no guarantee can be given about a specific cup size for the breast following surgery, since there is no reliable way of measuring breast volume and translating this to change in breast cup size.

I usually use a short incision placed in or just above the inframammary fold under the breast. The implant can be placed either behind the breast tissue and in front of the chest wall muscle, or behind the breast and under the muscle.

The operation is performed under general anaesthetic as a day case or single overnight stay in hospital. I recommend the use of a supportive sports bra for 4-6 weeks post-operatively, and office workers should be fit to return to work after one week. The appearance of the breasts matures and settles over the first 8-12 weeks, but can take longer in some patients.

After The Procedure

Bleeding can complicate breast augmentation, just as with any surgical procedure. The signs of haematoma are swelling and discomfort in the affected breast, and the treatment is to return to the operating theatre where the blood is removed and bleeding stopped before replacing the implant and closing the wound once more. This should not cause long-term problems.

Infection is a rare occurrence but can be a real problem, so we go to great lengths to maintain implant sterility during the procedure. Patients who develop an infection around the implant present with swelling, pain, redness of their breasts and they will feel unwell and have a temperature. Infection that involves the implant itself can only be managed effectively by surgically removing the old implant and by administration of antibiotics. Once the wounds have fully settled and time has been allowed for the infection to be totally eliminated, it is possible to re-insert a fresh implant. It is typical for a period of 4-6 months to elapse before this attempted. During this time, it is normal to leave the contralateral unaffected implant entirely alone.

It is said that approximately 15% of patients will have some permanent alteration to sensation in the nipple areola complex. This could affect both breasts. More commonly, patients complain of an uncomfortable increase in sensation for a little while following surgery, but this should settle with time.

For slim women in particular, I warn that the implant may be palpable. Particularly in the lower part of the breast where there is less tissue covering the implant. Unless this were particularly troublesome to the patient, it is not something that needs further treatment.

Just as there is a scar on the skin, then so the body encapsulates the implant in its own scar behind the breast. In 5-10% of patients this scar (also referred to as the capsule) can contract around the implant and create distortion to the shape, pain and a feeling of hardness. Capsular contracture can occur years after surgery and there is no clear way we can predict who will suffer this problem. The typical treatment is to release the capsule or remove it, to allow the implant to lie within an unrestricted pocket. It is typical during this surgery to replace the implant with a fresh one.

The current view of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), the American College of Rheumatology, the Centre for Disease Control and the American Medical Association is that there is no relationship between silicone breast implants and any chronic disease process, and this view has also been formally expressed by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Of note, however, is the recent discovery that macro-textured implants can promote the development of ALCL (Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma). This newly discovered problem is rare, and still under investigation. It does not seem to occur in smooth walled implants, so it is my preference to choose smooth implants in most cases.

General complications can occur as with other procedures carried out under general anaesthesia and include deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding are not contraindicated after breast augmentation.

Occasionally, breast implants may leak, tear or rupture. Rupture can occur as a result of injury or compression, but there is no danger with air travel or deep sea diving. If a saline-filled implant breaks, the implant will deflate over a few hours to days and the salt water will be harmlessly absorbed by the body. If a break occurs in a gel-filled implant ,the silicone gel may be contained by the scar capsule around the implant and you may not detect any change. If the silicone is within the capsule there is little risk. Whether any treatment is needed at this stage is controversial. If the silicone gel leaks out of the capsule and into the breast tissue you may detect a change in the shape or firmness of the breast, or a lump. An operation will then be required to replace the implant and remove the silicone. There is no clear guidance from any implant manufacturer that current products should be replaced surgically after any given period of time.

No clinical studies have shown any evidence of increased risk of breast cancer development in women with implants. In fact, most studies show implanted women to have a lower rate of breast cancer development than non-implanted women, possibly because they had smaller breasts and less breast tissue to start with. Breast implants may however interfere with the detection of breast cancer. Different mammography techniques using special views may be required, and you should explain to the radiologist when the time comes to have a mammogram that you have breast implants.

For many women the result of breast augmentation is very pleasing, as they learn to appreciate their new, fuller appearance. Overall, it is one of the best procedures offered by plastic surgeons and one with a high degree of patient satisfaction.

An amazing experience with Mr Winterton and his team. I went to see him regarding some moles I was concerned about. Having previously seen some other consultants, Rob made me feel at ease from the initial consultation all the way up to the follow up. You can tell he has a passion for his work and explains everything in detail so much so any questions you might of had you don’t need to ask as he has already covered them. The whole process was easy and ran smoothly. Having had the concerned moles removed, they are healing amazing and my scars are SO neat. I will definitely be recommending Mr Winterton. Thank you all so much – Amazing work from everyone!

October 22

Manchester

I went for my first consultation with Rob not really knowing if I was going to go ahead with any surgery. I’ve had a rather large saggy pair of breasts most of my life and had hated them for as long as I can remember. I’d been joining Cosmetic surgery sites on fb and various other places and Rob Winterton was the name that came up alot so I googled him and on a whim emailed. Within that day I had an appointment for a consultation and it wasn’t months away it was soon! The consultation went great, I felt really happy with what he was saying and how he explained things and from a minute in I knew I was going ahead. I had another consultation to go over things and make sure I was happy and I luckily got a cancellation and had my operation very quickly. The whole experience was great. The hospital was lovely, the care was great and I now have great new body. I’m not sure I would of ever gone ahead if i hadn’t had Rob as my surgeon, he was reassuring and made everything stress free and easy. I recommend him to everyone now and if I ever need anything else doing there’s only one surgeon for me.

October 22

Manchester

At the end of September l elected to have a neck and lower facelift . I am 58 years of age . After a lot of research l met Mr Winterton and straight away felt confident that l had found the right person to carry out this procedure . From the first initial meeting to now 6 weeks on from my operation , the care shown to me has been exceptional . I found Mr Winterton to be a true professional , a very nice man and an extremely skilled surgeon . I am thrilled with my own results . He was also very generous with his time and it was easy to talk through any concerns l had . He also has a wonderful secretary who is very much on the ball . All in all the best the best team and outcome l could have hoped for .

November 22

Manchester

I was very pleased that I chose Mr Winterton for my procedure. I had a problem with banana rolls. Mr Winterton listened to my concerns and after research and discussion found the best option to address this issue. Mr Winterton is kind and professional. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to family or friends.

November 22

Manchester

Mr Winterton was great – he was very reassuring without being patronising and listened carefully to my hoped-for outcomes, whilst also trying to communicate what was possible. I am really happy with my breast reduction results. I also appreciate that he suggests very few post-care products – if you watch YouTube or do research, you think you have to buy all sorts of products for scars, but ultimately my body has done most of the work by itself.

November 22

Manchester

I couldn’t be happier with my surgery and surgeon. I had the most wonderful treatment with Mr Winterton. He fully listened to all my concerns and took everything on board. Advised me perfectly and I had the most wonderful aftercare also. I’m 40 and feel like I have my body back. Couldnt recommend Mr Winterton enough

February 23

Manchester

It all started with a spot on my nose that kept bleeding when I was on holiday in Lanzarote in July 2022. I went to Dr Fitzgerald (Consultant Dermatologist) at the Highfield; he detected BCC on my nose & eyebrow & a tiny black spot on the back of my right arm. Black spot was malignant skin cancer !!! Fortunately Dr Fitzgerald is ACE too & got me a same day appointment with Rob Winterton. Rob has got rid of the Skin Cancer on my arm — 6″ inch scar – but hey ho. BCC on my nose is fine — just had a few more pests removed from eyebrow on 6 January. Rob is absolutely wonderful — as are his team in Surgery at the Alexandra & his 1st Class Practice Manager Vicki and his Nurse Alison. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

January 23

Manchester

So it’s been 2 years since Mr Winterton performed my tummy tuck And to say I am delighted with the results would be an understatement. So why have I waited 2 years to write a review? Purely to give a completely rounded review. I am still as amazed today by what he has managed to achieve as I was 2 years ago. The transformation can only be described as epic. The positive impact it has had on me has truly surprised me it has given me confidence I never thought was possible. I would give Mr Winterton 11 out of 10 not only for the results he produces, but for managing my expectations. On my 1st consultation he advised that I needed to lose some more weight to bring down my BMI which I did. I held up my end of the deal and he more than fulfilled his. Both the before and aftercare I received was world class the team that work with Mr Winterton are as dedicated as he is and I would recommend them without hesitation. All that remains for me to do is to thank Mr Winterton and the team for changing my life I am truly the happiest I have been in years

December 22

Manchester

Safe, Relaxed and Perfect Treatment from Start to Finish!

From start to finish my experience with Rob and Vikki his secretary has been nothing short of perfect.
From booking my consultation to feeling completely relaxed and having full confidence in Rob to my fabulous scar and results, I couldn’t be happier.
This was one of the best decisions I ever made and I couldn’t have picked a better surgeon to put all my trust in. After care has been brilliant and I’ve even cancelled my last app as I don’t need anymore care.
Super happy and grateful A*

January 23

York

My daughter was turned down for NHS ear pinning surgery. It has effected her confidence and she was subject to bullying because of it. I contacted Mr Winterton and in the first consultation with her he was outstanding. Most importantly he talked to my daughter all the way through, asking her what she wanted, why she wanted it, what she expected for the outcome and he managed that expectation in a very caring and sympathy manner. He shared coping techniques for any other children asking about the surgery. Every interaction with Mr Winterton and his team was an absolute pleasure and my daughter felt completely at ease. The surgery result was better than we could have hoped for. My daughters smile as she ties her hair up is priceless. And she has grown in confidence. Thank you to Mr Rob Winterton and his fab team (Alison/Vicki/Julie/the team at the Alexandra hospital- and a special mention to Phil on the paediatrics ward who was brilliant with his wit and bedside manner).

February 2022

Manchester

Mr Winterton was the third surgeon I consulted before my tummy tuck. I knew he was the right fit for me after his thorough examination, setting realistic expectations, in-depth information of what I could expect post op. His entire team were caring and true professionals. My surgery went smoothly and my results exceeded my expectations. The aftercare has been exceptional. Any query I had was answered immediately and I felt valued from start to finish.

March 2023

Manchester

I am a 68 year old lady and would have never considered plastic eye surgery (eye lid lift) but my optician recommended that I need it doing, as it was affecting my vision be cause of my drooping eye lids. I was on the NHS waiting list for it to be done but nearly 2 years of waiting, I decided to go private. The care and understanding I have received from Robert and his team has been excellent. The care during the procedure was outstanding and the aftercare again outstanding. I would highly recommend Robert for any procedure. Thank you Robert, Vicki and your outstanding team.

April 2023

Rochdale

Having seen numerous consultants for a breast reduction previously and having no luck or not feeling I had found ‘the right fit’, Mr Winterton came highly recommended to me. After my first consultation I knew I had found the ‘right fit’ for me. I felt completely comfortable & he listened to all of my wants, needs & worries. We had a great honest discussion about the whole experience start to finish and what techniques he would use, recovery time and what to expect going forward, how it worked & the process as a whole including realistic expectations post op. The aftercare I received from Mr Winterton and his whole team was second to none! Mr Winterton was caring and compassionate throughout it all & always made time to answer any questions or queries both pre and post op. I am now 8 weeks post op and although realistic expectations were discussed at prior appointments, I can honestly say that the results I got completely surpassed all of my expectations! I couldn’t be happier with my choice. Genuinely changed my quality of life and I couldn’t be more grateful.

April 2023

Halifax

I was recommended to Rob Winterton by a friend who had surgery in 2022. From my first consultation I felt I had complete trust in him to do my upper eyelid blepharoplasty. I had no nervousness on the day of my op and it was a very easy (on my part) procedure. The first few days after my op I had a fair bit of bruising but no discomfort or pain at all and the downtime was minimal, sutures were out within 5 days and I was back to work in 10 days albeit taking it easy. I had ice packs in the freezer to use on my eyes to reduce swelling and kept easy to prep meals in my fridge to make life easier whilst resting. Can honestly say it was a good experience from start to finish and the impact Rob’s surgery has made on me is amazing, forever grateful to him and his team for making it such a pleasurable experience.

April 2023

Manchester

From start to finish Rob has been amazing, very honest about what could be achieved (although I am astounded by my results.) After a 10 stone weight loss I had lots of loose skin. Rob recommended an FdL, also needed a hernia repair as well as brachioplasty. I cannot be happier with my results – thank you to Rob and his whole team you truly have changed my life, something I will be forever grateful for – I cannot recommend Rob highly enough.

June 2023

London

From first consultation with Rob I was made to feel at ease. He is extremely personable and I was comfortably able to ask lots of questions. I had an FdL abdominoplasty and branchioplasty after excess loose skin following a 10 stone weight loss. Rob was very honest and clear about the outcomes and managed my expectations. The aftercare is superb, and Rob was extremely responsive to any concerns I had pre and post surgery. I am absolutely thrilled with the results and cannot recommend Rob and his team highly enough. – thank you!

June 2023

Manchester

More Information

More Information

For more information about the procedure, as well as information regarding benefits & risks, how the procedure is performed and recovery, download the Patient Information form.

Download PDF

Mentor Implant Promise

Mentor Implant Promise

For more information about the implants I use most commonly, and the Mentor Promise, please download the Mentor Promise leaflet

Download PDF

Other Treatments

Affiliations