Breast Augmentation using Implants is very popular in the UK. Breast Implants (also called prostheses or augments) are placed either beneath the breast tissue or beneath the pectoralis major muscle (lying directly beneath the breast tissue).
Breast implants are usually filled with cohesive gel silicone designed to look and feel as natural as possible. The cohesive gel is different to older implants that were filled with liquid silicone and behave in a similar fashion to the inside of a jelly baby if the implant shell were cut (or the implant shell were to fail).
Mr Anthony MacQuillan regularly performs Breast Augmentation surgery using Mentor Implants.
1 to 1.5 hours
General
Day case typically
4 to 6 weeks
Your breasts may feel larger and higher than expected at first, but after 6 months your implants will settle into position.
Breast Augmentation Before and After Photos
Benefits of Breast Enlargement with Implants
Breast Augmentation with Implants offers several benefits, including:
- Improved Appearance: One of the most immediate and obvious benefits is the enhancement of the breast’s size and shape, leading to a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing figure.
- Boosted Self-Confidence: Many patients report an increase in self-confidence and satisfaction with their body image post-surgery.
- Clothing and Swimwear Options: Augmentation can expand clothing and swimwear choices, allowing for a better fit and more styles to choose from.
- Reconstruction and Symmetry: For those who have undergone mastectomy or have natural asymmetries, Breast Augmentation can restore balance and a sense of normalcy.
Can a Breast Enlargement Surgery Help You?
Ideal candidates for Breast Implants include:
- Those Experiencing Breast Changes Due to Life Events: Women who have undergone changes in breast size or shape due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight fluctuations may seek augmentation to restore their previous appearance.
- Individuals with Asymmetrical Breasts: Breast Augmentation can help balance asymmetrical breasts, where one breast is noticeably smaller than the other.
- Enhancing Self-Confidence: Many seek Breast Augmentation to boost their self-esteem and body image, especially if they feel their breasts are small or disproportionate to their body.
- Reconstruction after Mastectomy: Women who have undergone mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment may choose breast augmentation as part of their reconstruction surgery.
To find out more about what to expect from the procedure you can download a booklet on the link below…
DownloadHow Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Performed?
Anthony MacQuillan only uses the premium range of Allergan implants, which are guaranteed and have one of the best reputations within the field of breast augmentation.
Breast augmentation surgery varies depending on the type of implant and your specific anatomy. However, a general procedure includes:
- Anaesthesia: The surgery usually requires general anaesthesia.
- Incision: Incisions are made in inconspicuous areas to minimise visible scarring. Possible Incision sites include under the breast (inframammary), around the nipple (periareolar), or under the arm (axillary). Anthony places his incisions for breast implant surgery in the crease beneath the breast (or inframammary fold – IMF).
- Inserting and Placing the Implant: The breast implant is inserted through the incision and placed either under the pectoral muscle (Below the Muscle – a submuscular placement) or directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (Above the muscle – a submammary/subglandular placement).
- Closing the Incisions: Incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape to close the skin. The incisions are dressed with surgical glue, which is waterproof. The sutures will normally need to be removed at two weeks.
- Recovery: After the operation, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area for a few hours before being released. Instructions for post-operative care and follow-up will be provided.
Mr MacQuillan usually performs incisions for breast implant surgery beneath the breast in the breast (or inframammary) crease.
The incisions are dressed with surgical glue, which is waterproof and the sutures will normally need to be removed at two weeks.
Breast Augmentation Recovery and Aftercare
After you have been discharged from hospital you will need to take some pain relief but you should not be too uncomfortable. You will be provided with all the analgesia you should need before you go home.
You can start wearing a sports bra as soon as you feel comfortable, but it is essential not to wear underwired bras for the first six weeks as they can cause problems with wound healing.
After breast enlargement surgery, you can undertake light activities (including light aerobic exercise) once you feel comfortable, and after the first two weeks you can start to lift everyday objects.
It is important not to do upper body weights or rigorous exercise until six weeks following the surgery. Your body will be a good guide as to what you can and can’t manage.
Recovery and aftercare are important for the success of breast augmentation surgery and your well-being. Here’s what happens:
- Post-Surgery Care: Immediately after surgery, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. You may be given an elastic bandage or support bra to minimise swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
- Pain and Swelling: Some pain, swelling, and bruising are normal after breast augmentation. Pain can be managed with medications prescribed by Anthony.
- Activity Restrictions: You’ll be advised to take it easy for a few days and avoid strenuous activities for at least a couple of weeks. This helps in reducing swelling and preventing complications.
- Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor your recovery. Anthony will advise you on when you can resume normal activities and work.
- Long-term Care: It’s important to follow specific instructions about caring for your breasts post-surgery, including how to support them and when to resume exercise and other activities.
- Monitoring Implants: Regular check-ups and imaging tests (like MRI or ultrasound) may be recommended to monitor the condition of breast implants.
How Much Is Breast Enlargement Surgery in the UK?
The total cost of Breast Enlargement Surgery in the UK depends on various factors, including the type and sizes of implants chosen. Breast Enlargement surgery can range from £3,500 to £25,000.
These prices are influenced by factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the surgery, the type of implants used, the facility where the surgery is performed, and the post-operative care provided. Following your consultation, you will receive an estimate tailored to your specific needs. It’s essential to ensure that all necessary items are included in the quote you receive.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
What Breast Implant size and shape should I have?
Breast implants are available in differing shapes and sizes and level of fill. The most common types of breast implants that you will hear of are round or anatomical (also known as teardrop) shaped implants.
The round type prosthesis looks almost like a semicircle in profile (hence round), whereas the anatomic shape tries to recreate the natural shape of the breast, which is teardrop drop in profile.
The size equates approximately to the number of millilitres (mls) inside the implant, and the level of fill equates to the projection that the implant will have from the chest wall.
How long does Breast Augmentation surgery take?
The breast augmentation procedure is undertaken under general anaesthetic and takes between an hour to an hour and a half. You can go home the same day of the procedure but the cost is the same as for an overnight stay, so often it is as well to relax, whilst being looked after by the expert and caring nursing staff, and enjoy the truly excellent hospitality provided by the Hospitals.
Which Implants does Mr MacQuillan use?
Mr MacQuillan only uses the premium range of Mentor implants, which are guaranteed and have one of the best reputations within the field of breast augmentation.
How long is the recovery process after Breast Augmentation?
After you have been discharged from hospital you will need to take some pain relief but you should not be too uncomfortable. You will be provided with all the analgesia you should need before you go home.You can start wearing a sports bra as soon as you feel comfortable, but it is essential not to wear underwired bras for the first six weeks as they can cause problems with wound healing.After breast enlargement surgery, you can undertake light activities (including light aerobic exercise) once you feel comfortable, and after the first two weeks you can start to lift everyday objects. It is important not to do upper body weights or rigorous exercise until six weeks following the surgery. Your body will be a good guide as to what you can and can’t manage.
What are the Risks and Potential Complications of BA Surgery?
All surgery has risks and can have complications.
In addition to the general risks of surgery, there are additional risks and potential complications relating to Breast Augmentation and Breast Implants
It’s important to understand these risks before undergoing the procedure:
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant, which can cause pain and alter the appearance of the breast.
- Implant Leakage or Rupture: Implants can break or leak. In the case of saline implants, the saline will be absorbed by the body. Silicone gel from a leaking silicone implant can either stay inside the shell or escape into the breast implant pocket.
- Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation: Some patients may experience increased or reduced sensitivity in the nipples or breasts after surgery. This is usually temporary.
- Incorrect Implant Position: Sometimes, the implant may shift from its original position, leading to an asymmetrical appearance.
- Scarring: While surgical techniques aim to minimise visible scarring, any surgery will leave some scars.
- Infection and Bleeding: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of infection and bleeding.
It’s important to discuss these risks thoroughly with Anthony and understand that while breast augmentation can enhance appearance and confidence, it’s important to have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of potential complications.
Will my breasts be identical after Breast Surgery?
One of the key things to understand with breast implant surgery (and breasts in general) is that there is no person on the planet who has symmetrical breasts (or for that matter face, hands or feet etc.).
This is important, as following surgery most people tend to look quite closely at their breasts and start noticing any asymmetry that may be there, having not noticed it previously.
Breast augmentation will reduce size discrepancy between breasts (by adding the same volume to each breast the overall percentage difference between the two will decrease) but it will not adjust nipple height (and may make differences more pronounced) and if your breasts are at differing heights on your chest wall, asymmetry will persist following the procedure.
What is BII - Breast Implant Illness?
What is BIA-ALCL?
What questions should I ask in a Breast Augmentation Consultation?
Before undergoing cosmetic breast surgery, you will be required to undergo an initial consultation with your surgeon.
This allows your plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and expectations, as well as assess your suitability for undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure.
It also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have and to find out as much about the procedure as possible.
When attending the consultation, it’s a good idea to have a list of questions to ask the surgeon.
Here are 3 key questions you should ask during your breast augmentation consultation.
1. Am I an ideal candidate for cosmetic breast surgery?
Although cosmetic breast surgery is a very common cosmetic surgery procedure, it is important that you are suitable for a specific procedure.
Often patients that have seen a loss of volume, whether through weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding or the ageing process, wish to restore volume with a breast augmentation.
However, implants may make the breasts look worse in which case a breast uplift enlargement is required.
Ideal candidates for breast uplift enlargement are those who are generally fit and healthy. You should also have realistic expectations, be undergoing the procedure for yourself, and feel that your life is negatively impacted due to the appearance of your breasts.
2. What are the risks and complications?
As cosmetic breast surgery is so popular and commonly performed, particularly the breast augmentation operation, patients often forget there are risks and complications. It is important to understand all of the risks the surgery presents.
Again, this question also allows you to check you are choosing the right surgeon. If they are vague about the risks, it should be seen as a red flag.
Qualified and experienced surgeons will always be upfront and honest about the risks and complications of breast augmentation, ensuring you have as much knowledge about the procedure before going ahead.
3. How many similar procedures have you performed?
If you want to reduce the likelihood of risks and complications, as well as achieve the best results, you need to know the skill and experience of your cosmetic surgeon.
Ask them how many breast uplift enlargement procedures they have performed and whether you can see before and after photos.
The more experienced the surgeon is, the more natural the results will look. Scarring will be reduced, and there will be much fewer risks involved than there would be with an inexperienced surgeon. If possible, ask to see evidence of the surgeon’s qualifications.
It is important to realise that each patient is different. So, even after seeing before and after photos, you may not experience the same level of results.
The surgeon will be able to talk through your expectations and let you know whether or not they are achievable.
These are just 3 important questions to ask your cosmetic surgeon during your consultation.
The goal is to find out as much as you can about the procedure, ensure they are the best surgeon for the job, and determine whether you are an ideal candidate.
Medical References about Breast Augmentation & Implants
- The long-term outcomes of breast implants studied
- The effect of breast augmentation surgery on quality of life, satisfaction, and marital life in married women using BREAST-Q as a validation tool
- The magnitude of effect of cosmetic breast augmentation on patient satisfaction and health-related quality of life
- Safety and Effectiveness of Silicone Gel–Filled Breast Implants in Primary Augmentation Patients
- Risks and Complications of Breast Implants – FDA
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
The best cosmetic surgeon!
Anthony MacQuillan is an exceptionally talented surgeon with excellent client care skills.
Anthony ensured that I was listened to, fully informed, properly advised, and well looked after. At no point did I feel pressured into making a decision or that any question I had was silly, quite the opposite. From my very first consultation I knew I was in safe hands, with someone I could trust and that he would do everything he could to ensure my objectives were met; (in so far as possible) and safely !
My surgery went very-very well, and my recovery was remarkably easy and without complication. The nurses and anesthetist (Debbie) at the Spire, Bristol were also exceptional.
The results are outstanding, and far exceed my expectations: this is due to Anthony’s abilities and expertise. I followed his advice (delivered in straightforward and kind way) and I’ve never felt more confident, more womanly and so fantastic in my own skin.
If you’re considering a breast augmentation, I would recommend Anthony MacQuillan in a heartbeat – 5 stars really isn’t enough ! Worth every, single penny !
Anthony’s Secretary- Mandy is so kind and organised ! She went above and beyond, and played a significant role in ensuring that my breast augmentation journey was faultless.
I met with Mr MacQuillan back in July, via a virtual consultation and I knew straight away that I he was the right surgeon for me.
He genuinely listened to my thoughts and what I wanted to achieve from my surgery (breast augmentation). Even though I had been researching the procedure for years, he gave me a lot of information which was really important in my decision making.
I have wanted this surgery for 10 years but lacked in the confidence to actually go through with it, until I met Mr MacQuillan.
I truly believed that he wanted the best for me, that helped me make the decision to go forward with the procedure even though I was very nervous about the op and the recovery.
I chose to go to the Only You Clinic at St Joesphs hospital in Newport, it is a lovely hospital very bright and airy and the staff were very friendly.
On the day of the operation, I was welcomed warmly into the hospital, my Husband couldn’t come in with me due to Covid-19 but I was taken good care of from the minute I stepped through the door. I was given a lovely little room prior to my op and didn’t have to wait long before I was called into theatre, although I was very nervous, I felt safe.
After coming round from my op, I was instantly put at ease by the nurses reassuring me that all went well, Mr MacQuillan came to check on me too and was happy with how things had gone….I was on cloud 9! The results were amazing and finally the last 10 years of having no confidence had gone!
The weeks after the recovery were slow but I was reassured that I could call or see Mr MacQuillan if ever I was worried about something, which I did a couple of times and I was put at ease that things were healing well and all was normal.
All in all, the whole experience was a great one and I’m just sad that I didn’t find Mr MacQuillan sooner!
I’d also like to give a shout out to Lucy, Mr MacQuillans assistant, she was absolutely amazing, one of the nicest people I’ve ever met!
We spoke and emailed many times and nothing was ever too much trouble. She was also there to greet me on the day of the op and all my follow ups.
I actually felt like she was a friend with the way she treated me, a genuinely lovely person so thank you, because you were a major part of why my experience was so great!
My advice to anyone researching plastic surgery of any kind. Mr MacQuillan and his team are the ones for you, you will not regret it!
I Am Extremely Pleased with my Results!!
Before choosing a surgeon to perform my procedure I done lots of research as I wanted to ensure I had the best surgeon possible. Anthony MacQuillan was just that! He was extremely professional from the start, the consultation was thorough, he made me feel at ease before the surgery and comfortable during my follow up appointments which I’m still having. I decided to have breast augmentation surgery to look more in proportion as I’m very petite on top compared to my lower half and to also boost my confidence. I’m so happy with the end result and I can’t recommend Anthony MacQuillan enough!
If I could give Dr MacQuillan 10 stars I would.
I’ve been so impressed with the service I’ve received throughout my breast augmentation process. Right from the initial consultation through to now (8 weeks post surgery).
I’m so glad I chose Anthony for my surgery, and even more glad I was lucky to have the most attentive nurse assistant. I experienced a slight post-operative complication (through no fault of the surgery itself or through Anthony) and received the most attentive post operative care. Nothing was ever too much trouble for Anthony or his team.
Highly, highly recommend!!
Amazing Expierence
I finally plucked up the courage to book my appointment to start my Breast Augmentation journey and it really was the best thing I ever did. Once I had my appointment with the nurse I then got to choose my surgeon. Based on the information I was provided with and having friends who have previously had work done with Mr MacQuillan there was no doubt I would contemplate going elsewhere. I can honestly say from my first initial consultation with Anthony to the actual surgery and after care my whole experience was AMAZING. Throughout all of my appointments Anthony was very professional & calm which made me feel at ease, after all it is such a big operation to have at the age of 22. I am super happy with my results and would recommend anybody seeking to have a Breast Enlargement to consider Mr MacQuillan, after doing such a brilliant job & being cared for in such a lovely environment by the Spire team.
Anthony MacQuillan is an exceptionally talented surgeon with excellent client care skills.
Anthony ensured that I was listened to, fully informed, properly advised, and well looked after. At no point did I feel pressured into making a decision or that any question I had was silly: quite the opposite. From my very first consultation I knew I was in safe hands, with someone I could trust and that he would do everything he could to ensure my objectives were met; (in so far as possible) and safely!
My surgery went very well, and my recovery was remarkably easy and without complication. The nurses and anesthetist (Debbie) at the Spire, Bristol were also exceptional.
The results are outstanding, and far exceed my expectations: this is due to Anthony’s abilities and expertise. I followed his advice (delivered in straightforward and kind way) and I’ve never felt more confident, more womanly and so fantastic in my own skin.
If you’re considering a breast augmentation, I would recommend Anthony MacQuillan in a heartbeat – 5 stars really isn’t enough ! Worth every, single penny !
Anthony’s Secretary, Mandy is so kind and organised ! She went above and beyond, and played a significant role in ensuring that my breast augmentation journey was faultless.
Amazing experience and result
Where do I start? This man is amazing at what he does.From my first appointment I was made to feel at ease and felt that my surgery plan was tailored for all my wishes. Can thank him enough for my results I’m absolutely over the moon. I had surgery to help with confidence and to feel better about my body. Mr MacQuillan has definatley helped give me this. I had an image in my head of my results and the result is a million times better than I ever imagined.I recommend Anthony MacQuillan to anybody considering surgery.
I cannot thank Mr MacQuillan enough for seeing at the Spire Hospital in Bristol. From the first appointment I warmed to his caring, patient, understanding but always professional manner towards my needs.
I felt like a young teenage boy for a long time. Even into my late twenties. Finally 14 years after deciding I would have to have a breast augmentation in the future to feel better about myself. I was in a position to do so.
I made an appointment to see Mr MacQuillan after speaking with my facial palsy surgeon who described Anthony as a fine surgeon who incidentally had an interest in facial palsy. Thats it I was sold and on the phone trying to get an appointment.
Unfortunately I have Facial Palsy so struggle with facing the world everyday anyway but having had a breast augmentation in early 2014 has made me a new person in someways. Finally I love my body and feel confident in facing the world. BTW I have a whole new wardrobe because my old clothes look so much better now and I wear them with a spring in my step. Bring on the summer 😉
The result is amazing and better than I ever imagined. I had looked at pictures of the surgery but had never touched somebody else’s. Hey it’s a bonus too that they don’t move much with support but they feel so natural at the same time.
I hope to have any when its time for my replacement 😉
Kindest regards
Bethan
Brilliant
My surgeon Anthony MacQuillan at the Spire Bristol is absolutely fantastic, from my first consultation I felt instantly at ease , no question was too silly , and Anthony was always available should I have any questions , the day of surgery went extremely well and now 3 months after surgery I couldn’t be happier, would highly recommend Anthony to anyone considering this operation
I couldn’t be happier with the results from my breast augmentation, from start to finish Anthony and his team have been fantastic, would highly recommend to anyone considering Anthony as a surgeon
Breast Augmentation – Bristol, GB
From a young age, I have always known that I wouldn’t be the most blessed when it came to my breasts and so always contemplated having them done once I was old enough. After turning 19 and coming to a conclusion that I had not developed since my early teens, I had decided to finally go ahead with the procedure.
I never had a lot of confidence and would always wear baggy clothing in an attempt to hide how flat my chest was. I never saw the point in getting measured as there wasn’t a great deal there and so just wore soft bras as I didn’t need the support from a proper bra. Due to this, I didn’t really know my ‘before’ size but my consultant and I came to the conclusion I was between and AA – A Cup.
I had very low self esteem and would get upset over having the body of a 11 year old boy. My figure was getting me down and affecting my relationships with people as I lacked the motivation and ability to socialise due to my confidence being so low.
After having the surgery, I went from a very small A cup to a large C and the difference has made myself so much more confident. I now have the ability to wear different types of clothing that will now flatter my figure rather than drown it and have had an abundance of compliments from friends and family.
The surgery itself went great, my breasts are even and are not hard which is a common misconception many have when they think of breast implants. My scaring is minimal and there is not a single stretch mark which was my main concern.
I can now look in the mirror and not think I look like a child but rather a grown woman.
Tired Breasts – Bristol, GB
My motivation for breast surgery was to feel feminine and more confident within myself. I have had 4 children, the youngest is 6months of age, I have breast fed all my children and I felt that my breast were very deflated, my aim was to achieve volume and lift. I’m thrilled with the results,no regrets
21 Years Old and No Confidence – Bristol, UK
Pros
– Anthony made me feel very welcome, he took my thoughts on board and gave me his advice, he didn’t look at me an think I was just being a stupid 21 year old, he knew I wanted this procedure for myself and supported me 100%.
– He made me feel very comfortable about taking my top off and not ashamed of what was there before, he gave me lots of advice, support and courage.
– Anthony was behind me every step of the way, I can not thank him enough for giving me the confidence I got from having my surgery. I would highly recommend Anthony to anyone who is thinking about having surgery. I would not go to anyone else. Even after my surgery Anthony still makes sure I am ok, happy still and asks if I need anything etc.
Cons-
I wish I found Anthony MacQuillan a long time ago!
Over 20 Years of Wanting This Procedure I Finally Went for It. Bristol, GB
My motivation to have this procedure for me was to be able to look at myself in the mirror and like what I saw to be able to buy bras that aren’t padded and that actually fit. The initial discomfort (first two weeks being the worst but by week 4/5 feeling much better) is definitely worth the outcome and confidence it’s given me.
Excellent Experience – Spire, Bristol
I was very pleased with my surgery with Dr MacQuillan. From beginning to end he was friendly and professional, happy to answer any questions that I had in the run up to surgery and in the post operative period. In addition I was very pleased with the result of my surgery. I can highly recommend him to anyone considering plastic surgery.
Why Choose Anthony?
Anthony’s expertise in breast surgery is complemented by an all-inclusive approach to patient care. We understand the importance of listening to your concerns, desires, and expectations, ensuring a journey that is as comfortable and reassuring as possible. From the initial consultation through recovery, our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
State-of-the-Art Techniques and Facilities: We use the latest surgical techniques and technologies to ensure optimal outcomes and minimal downtime.
Personalised Care: Each procedure is tailored to meet the individual needs and goals of our patients, ensuring results that are both beautiful and natural-looking.
Comprehensive Support: Our team provides comprehensive care, from pre-operative education to post-operative support, ensuring your experience is positive and fulfilling.
Getting Started
Your journey toward confidence and well-being begins with a consultation. During this meeting, Anthony will discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your health, and recommend the best treatment options for you. Together, we will craft a personalised plan that aligns with your vision and lifestyle.
To learn more about our breast procedures or to schedule your consultation, please contact us today.
Further Reading about Breast Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
Learn about other Breast procedures Anthony preforms, including;
