Bilateral Breast Augmentation
When a 46-year-old
female patient of Mr Ian Whitworth, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at
New Hall Hospital, told her teenage daughters she was considering
having a Bilateral Breast Augmentation, their reaction was one of
disbelief:
“They thought I was mad. But they had no idea what my breasts
really looked like because I was so self-conscious I put gel
inserts in my bras to make my breasts look full and firm. When I
showed them the damaging effect breast-feeding had had on my bust
they changed their minds and supported my decision 100%.”
The first issue the patient had to resolve was whether she could
afford the operation:
“I felt the result would justify the cost. It was something I
wanted, for myself, to improve my quality of life. Those were
reasons enough to make the expense worthwhile.”
During an initial discussion the Consultant explained the
options available, the likely result, and the possible risks:
“I felt it was important to be as open and honest with Mr
Whitworth as he was with me. From what I said, and from what he
told me, we could both appreciate the bigger picture of what I
wanted and why. That sense of mutual trust and understanding
between patient and Consultant is very important.”
An implant under the muscle was recommended because of the more
realistic look in filling out the existing breast tissue:
“I handled a breast implant so I could feel the weight and
texture, and spent a week experimenting with freezer bags full of
rice inside my bra. When I went back I knew exactly what size
implant I would be comfortable with, and what would best suit my
size eight body shape.”
Prior to the operation the Consultant again went through every
aspect of the surgery with the patient, making sure she was
completely happy with her decision to go ahead:
“I understood what was going to happen and felt sure I had made
the right decision. I was so excited I couldn’t wait for the
operation to be over. I was getting something I really wanted, and
knew would make me feel better about myself for the first time in
more than 20 years.”
The operation went very smoothly:
“There was no pain, and hardly any swelling. Two small drainage
bags were attached, which were removed before I left the hospital.
That was uncomfortable but, taken altogether, that was the only
part of the operation that was. I was driving again within four
days, back to my normal life within seven. My breasts were soft
within the first month and now you would need a magnifying glass to
see the scar. Most importantly, every part of my breast, including
the nipple, has full sensation.”
And the end result?
“As soon as I recovered, I went out and spent £350 on underwear
for the first time in my life. I wanted to shout, ‘Look at me!’
because of the confidence I regained. I’ve never regretted the
decision and I never will. I now have the figure I always wanted or
dreamt of, and my breasts are in balance with the rest of my
body.”
Mr Ian Whitworth is one of 10 Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons
practicing at New Hall Hospital.