If you love the sleek, athletic look of a dancer’s body and want your breasts to look naturally perky, compact, and in proportion, then ballerina breast augmentation may be exactly what you’re looking for. Sometimes called yoga boobs, a mini boob job, or miniaug, this approach focuses on creating a soft, natural upper-pole contour with a narrower base width and balanced projection. The result is a beautifully proportioned breast that looks elegant in activewear, swimwear, and evening outfits — without appearing overdone or “augmented.”
At CLNQ in Manchester and Cheshire, our consultant plastic surgeon, Mr Reza Nassab MBChB, MSc, MBA, FRCS (Plast), offers highly individualised breast augmentation treatments designed to achieve this refined, natural aesthetic. Below we explain what the ballerina style is, who it’s for, how it’s performed, and why it has become one of the most sought-after styles among women who want a graceful, athletic look.
What Is Ballerina Breast Augmentation?
“Ballerina” breast augmentation describes a style of result rather than a specific implant type or brand. The look is inspired by the delicate proportions of dancers — slim, sculpted, and naturally balanced. The goal is to enhance the breasts in a way that complements an athletic frame, maintaining elegance and harmony rather than excessive volume.
In a ballerina breast augmentation, the surgeon aims to:
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Keep the breast base narrow to match a petite or athletic chest wall.
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Create a youthful nipple position with subtle upper-pole fullness.
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Maintain natural side-boob and avoid excessive lateral fullness.
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Preserve mobility and comfort for women who live active lifestyles, such as yoga, running, and Pilates.
This style often uses smaller or moderate-volume implants that produce soft, natural curves while keeping everything in proportion.
Who Is It For?
Ballerina breast augmentation is perfect for those who want to enhance their breasts in a refined, understated way. You may be an ideal candidate if:
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You have a slim or athletic build and want your breasts to look elegant rather than large.
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You prefer a natural silhouette that fits comfortably in everyday clothing and sportswear.
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You want to restore volume lost after pregnancy or weight changes without appearing “augmented.”
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You lead an active lifestyle and value comfort and mobility.
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You appreciate a look that ages gracefully and stays proportionate over time.
This approach suits patients who feel that traditional breast augmentations can sometimes look too full or wide for their body shape.
The Aesthetic Blueprint: Proportion, Projection and Pole Ratio
Every ballerina augmentation is tailored to the individual, but the aesthetic philosophy remains the same — it’s all about proportion and harmony. The upper and lower poles of the breast should complement each other, the cleavage should be softly defined, and the projection should feel balanced.
A well-planned ballerina result typically features the right profile, narrow base width, and natural slope from the upper chest to the nipple. During consultation at CLNQ Manchester, Mr Nassab takes detailed measurements of your chest wall, breast footprint, and tissue elasticity. These measurements help determine which implant dimensions — not just volume — will achieve the best result for your body.
Choosing the Right Implant for the Ballerina Look
Motiva Preservé and Advanced Gel Implants
Many ballerina-style augmentations use Motiva Preservé implants. These advanced implants have a soft, cohesive gel that retains shape while maintaining a natural feel. They are especially suited to slimmer patients, as they reduce visible rippling and maintain a gentle, natural upper-pole slope.
Profile and Base Width
Most ballerina patients choose demi or moderate-plus profiles, which provide elegant projection without extending too far laterally. The key is to match the implant’s base width to your chest, keeping your silhouette sleek and balanced. Some may prefer a full or high profile which can still look natural if the size is correctly chosen.
The MiniAug Approach
Smaller implant volumes — often in the 200 to 300cc range — are popular for ballerina augmentations. However, this depends entirely on your existing breast tissue, frame, and desired change. The focus is always on harmony, not numbers.
Surgical Technique: Placement and Incision
At CLNQ, Mr Nassab typically performs ballerina breast augmentations using a dual-plane technique, where the upper part of the implant sits under the pectoral muscle and the lower part beneath the breast tissue. This approach helps soften the upper-pole contour, reduce visible edges, and achieve a more natural slope. The Motiva Preserve is performed over the muscle but uses Ergonomix 2 implants which are more natural.
The incision is usually placed in the inframammary fold (the crease beneath the breast), as this provides optimal control for implant positioning and a well-hidden scar. Meticulous attention is given to creating a symmetrical, stable pocket that keeps the implant centred for the most natural result.
Mini Boob Job Under Local Anaesthetic
For selected patients, ballerina augmentation can sometimes be performed as a mini boob job under local anaesthetic. This approach uses smaller implants and is suitable for those seeking subtle enhancement with faster recovery and minimal downtime. It’s not right for everyone, but it can be an excellent option for those who want a more comfortable, awake experience.
Ballerina vs Traditional Breast Augmentation
While both involve breast implants, the goals and aesthetic outcomes differ significantly.
|
Feature |
Ballerina Augmentation |
Traditional Augmentation |
|---|---|---|
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Style |
Elegant, natural, athletic |
Varies – natural to dramatic |
|
Volume |
Smaller, moderate |
Full range |
|
Base Width |
Narrow, footprint matched |
Can be wider |
|
Cleavage |
Defined but natural |
Can be fuller or closer |
|
Upper Pole |
Soft, gradual slope |
Often more pronounced |
|
Best For |
Active, petite, balanced look |
Broader goals, fuller results |
If you’ve ever felt that traditional augmentations looked “too much,” the ballerina approach provides a graceful, proportionate alternative.
The Consultation Process at CLNQ Manchester
Your consultation with Mr Nassab is an in-depth, collaborative experience.
First, we’ll discuss your goals, lifestyle, and the type of look you want to achieve — including reviewing before-and-after photos that reflect the ballerina style. Next, detailed measurements and sizing are used to select the implants that best fit your frame. You’ll have the opportunity to try on sizers, review implant options like Motiva Preservé, and see how different volumes affect your shape.
Finally, we’ll discuss the surgical plan, anaesthetic options, recovery process, and realistic outcomes. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of every step of your journey.
The Procedure
The procedure usually takes around 60 to 90 minutes. Most patients have general anaesthesia, although small-volume cases may be performed under local anaesthetic with Motiva Preserve.
An incision is made beneath the breast fold, and a precise pocket is created to house the implant. Once positioned, the area is carefully closed with dissolvable sutures. A surgical support bra is placed immediately after surgery, and you can usually return home the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from ballerina breast augmentation is often quicker and more comfortable than traditional augmentation, thanks to the smaller implant size and refined technique.
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Days 1–3: You may experience tightness and mild swelling. Pain relief will help, and gentle walking is encouraged.
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Week 1: Most people can return to light work or desk-based tasks.
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Weeks 2–3: You’ll feel more comfortable performing daily activities, though still avoid heavy lifting.
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Week 4: Light cardio exercise may resume with Preserve, traditional augmentation may need 6 weeks.
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Weeks 6–8: You can return to yoga, Pilates, and full gym routines once cleared.
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3–6 months: The implants settle naturally, with final results visible around this time.
You’ll have regular follow-ups to ensure you’re healing well and achieving the aesthetic outcome discussed.
Risks and Safety
As with all surgical procedures, there are risks. These include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, implant malposition, changes in sensation, capsular contracture, and the need for future revision.
At CLNQ, we minimise risks through meticulous planning, advanced surgical technique, and close aftercare. We only use premium implants from reputable manufacturers, and our facilities are CQC-registered for the highest standards of care.
Cost and Finance Options
The cost of ballerina breast augmentation varies depending on factors such as implant type (e.g., Motiva Preservé), anaesthetic choice, and surgical complexity. After your consultation, you’ll receive a personalised fixed-price quote. We also offer flexible finance plans, making it easier to spread the cost of your procedure.
Why Choose Reza Nassab Manchester Plastic Surgeon for Your Ballerina Augmentation
CLNQ is one of Manchester’s leading clinics for cosmetic and wellness treatments. When you choose us, you benefit from:
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Consultant-led care by a fully accredited plastic surgeon, Mr Reza Nassab FRCS (Plast).
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Tailored planning to ensure your results complement your anatomy and lifestyle.
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Access to advanced implants like Motiva Preservé for natural, refined outcomes.
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Discreet luxury clinics in Manchester and Cheshire with exceptional aftercare.
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Experience with athletic and lifestyle-focused patients, ensuring your results look and feel natural.
Yoga Boobs vs Ballerina Boobs
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. Yoga boobs usually refer to very natural, subtle augmentations designed to look great in sportswear, while ballerina boobs add a touch more projection and a classical, symmetrical shape. Both styles are natural and feminine, designed to enhance without exaggeration.
Fat Grafting and Hybrid Options
For patients seeking the softest, most natural result, fat grafting can be combined with implants. This technique smooths transitions and reduces visible implant edges, particularly in slim patients. It can also be used to fine-tune symmetry or enhance upper-pole fullness.
Long-Term Results
Since ballerina augmentation focuses on proportion and moderate sizing, results tend to age gracefully. Proper implant choice, pocket control, and tissue respect mean you can enjoy your new shape for many years. While implants don’t last forever, modern designs such as Motiva Preservé offer improved longevity and safety.
Key Takeaways
Ballerina breast augmentation is all about balance, proportion, and elegance. It’s ideal for women who want a natural enhancement that suits an active lifestyle. Using modern implants, refined surgical technique, and expert planning, Mr Nassab can help you achieve the subtle, timeless look you’ve always wanted.
FAQs
Is ballerina breast augmentation only for petite patients?
No, this technique can be adapted for anyone who prefers a subtle, athletic result. It’s about achieving harmony with your body shape, not size.
What cup size will I be after surgery?
We don’t plan surgery based on cup sizes, as they vary by brand and band size. Instead, we focus on dimensions and proportions. Most patients go up by one to two cup sizes.
Will the results look natural?
Yes. The combination of implant profile, size and plane will produce soft, believable results with elegant cleavage.
Can I exercise after surgery?
Yes. Once you’ve recovered and been cleared, you can resume all physical activity, including yoga, running, and gym workouts.
What if my breasts are uneven?
Mild asymmetry is normal. We can use different implant sizes or subtle adjustments to improve balance.
How long do implants last?
Implants don’t have a fixed lifespan but may eventually need replacement. Regular follow-ups help monitor your long-term results.
Is Motiva Preservé right for me?
Motiva Preservé is a high-quality option for many patients. We will compare various implants to find the one that best matches your goals.
What are the main risks?
Risks include infection, bleeding, implant malposition, rippling, and capsular contracture. We minimise risks through careful planning and strict hygiene protocols.
Can I have it under local anaesthetic?
In some cases, yes. A mini boob job using local anaesthetic and Motiva Preserve is suitable for selected patients seeking smaller enhancements.
How much does it cost in Manchester?
Prices vary depending on implant type, anaesthetic, and complexity. A personalised quote will be provided after consultation, with finance options available. Motiva Preserve is from £9500 and the MiniAug from £7500.
Ready to begin your journey?
If you want elegant, natural-looking results that reflect your lifestyle, book a consultation with Mr Nassab today. We will help you design a ballerina breast augmentation that enhances your confidence and complements your body beautifully.
