A good candidate for breast augmentation is an adult aged 18 or over whose breasts have finished developing, who is in good general health, at a stable weight, a non-smoker or willing to stop, and who has clear, realistic goals for herself rather than to please others. Breast augmentation may not be the right choice if the breasts are significantly drooping, if you are planning a pregnancy very soon, or if expectations are shaped mainly by filtered images.
Common reasons people consider augmentation
- Naturally small breasts: breasts that feel out of proportion with the rest of the figure.
- Volume loss: a deflated or empty upper pole after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss.
- Asymmetry: a noticeable difference in size or shape between the two breasts.
- Developmental differences: such as tuberous or constricted breasts, which may need additional reshaping.
Wanting a change for your own confidence is a valid reason. What matters is that the decision is well informed and entirely yours.
Physical factors Mr Nassab assesses
At consultation, Mr Nassab examines the width of the breast, the thickness and elasticity of the skin and breast tissue, the position of the nipple relative to the fold beneath the breast, chest wall shape and any existing asymmetry. Patients with very thin tissues may be more likely to feel or see the implant edges, which influences implant type and placement. If the nipple sits at or below the fold, an implant alone is unlikely to lift the breast, and augmentation mastopexy may be advised instead.
Health factors that matter
- Weight: a stable weight is preferable, because significant weight change later can alter the result.
- Smoking and vaping: nicotine impairs healing and increases complications; you will be asked to stop well before surgery.
- Medical conditions: conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease and clotting disorders need to be well controlled and may require input from your GP.
- Breast health: a personal or strong family history of breast cancer, or any current breast lump, should be discussed and may need assessment or imaging first.
- Mental wellbeing: surgery is not recommended during a period of significant distress or where concern about appearance is overwhelming.
Timing: pregnancy and weight loss
Pregnancy and breastfeeding change breast size and shape, so many women prefer to wait until their family is complete, although this is a personal choice. If you have recently finished breastfeeding, it is sensible to wait several months for the breasts to settle before deciding on size. If you are actively losing weight, it is usually better to reach a stable goal first. More detail is in our article on pregnancy and breast implants.
Realistic expectations
Implants can increase volume, improve upper-pole fullness and help balance mild asymmetry. They cannot fully correct significant sagging, change the position of widely spaced breasts dramatically, or produce a result identical to a photograph of someone else. Some asymmetry will always remain. Implants also need long-term care and may require further surgery in future. Understanding the risks of breast augmentation is part of being a good candidate.
When surgery may not be right
Mr Nassab may recommend waiting or not proceeding if you are under 18, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active infection or uncontrolled medical condition, continue to smoke, are feeling pressured by a partner or others, or appear to be seeking surgery to resolve a deeper distress about appearance. In those situations, taking time or seeking other support is usually the safer path.
Alternatives to consider
- Fat transfer: fat transfer to the breast uses your own fat for a modest increase in size, if you have enough donor fat.
- Breast lift only: where the concern is shape and position rather than volume.
- Minimally invasive options: such as Motiva Preserve or MiniAug for suitable patients seeking a subtle change.
- Non-surgical: well-fitted or padded bras can be a good choice for those not ready for surgery.
Breast augmentation costs from £8,500 and the £150 consultation is charged separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age for breast augmentation?
Cosmetic breast augmentation is only offered to adults aged 18 and over, and the breasts should have finished developing.
Can breast augmentation be done if the breasts are slightly droopy?
Mild drooping can sometimes be improved with an implant alone. Where the nipple sits at or below the fold, a lift is usually needed as well.
Does BMI matter?
A stable, healthy weight reduces surgical risks and gives a more predictable result. Mr Nassab will discuss your individual situation.
Should surgery wait until after having children?
It is a personal decision. Surgery is possible beforehand, but pregnancy can change the result and further surgery may be wanted later.
Is a family history of breast cancer a barrier?
Not necessarily, but it should be discussed. Screening or imaging may be advised before surgery.
Related Guides
- Breast Asymmetry Correction Recovery
- Breast Asymmetry Correction: Risks and Safety
- Breast Asymmetry Correction: Questions to Ask
- Is Breast Augmentation Painful?
- The Inframammary Fold Explained
- Breast Augmentation Risks and Safety
- Breast Augmentation: Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
- Choosing a Breast Augmentation Surgeon in the UK
