Breast Augmentation London: The Complete Patient Guide by Dr Ali Arnaout
Updated: Jul 26
Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the UK. Whether you want to increase breast volume, restore projection lost after pregnancy or weight changes, or improve symmetry, breast augmentation in London now offers techniques that were simply not available a decade ago.
This guide covers everything you need to know — from choosing the right implant and technique to understanding recovery, results and costs — written by Consultant Plastic Surgeon Dr Ali Arnaout, who practises at Harley Street and iQonic Aesthetics, London.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that increases breast size, shape and projection using implants. It is performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthetic and typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes. It is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. The right approach depends entirely on your starting anatomy, your goals, your lifestyle and the techniques available to your surgeon.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Breast augmentation is appropriate for patients who are in good general health and have realistic expectations. Common reasons patients seek breast augmentation in London include:
Breasts that feel too small relative to body frame
Loss of volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss
Breast asymmetry — one breast noticeably smaller than the other
A desire for improved projection, shape or upper pole fullness
Wanting to feel more confident in clothing and swimwear
A thorough consultation will establish whether breast augmentation is appropriate, which technique is best suited to your anatomy, and what results are realistic for your body.
Breast Augmentation Techniques Available in London
Not all breast augmentation procedures are equal. The technique affects scar placement, recovery, trauma to the tissue and the quality of the result. Dr Ali Arnaout offers three approaches:
Traditional Breast Augmentation
A traditional breast augmentation involves placing an implant either beneath the breast tissue or part under the chest muscle through an incision under the breast fold, typically 4-6 cm in length. The pocket is created using diathermy (heat). This remains the most widely performed approach worldwide and is appropriate for many patients.
Joy Dot Dual plane Breast Augmentation
involves placing an implant part beneath the breast tissue and part under the chest muscle through an incision under the breast fold, typically 2-3 cm in length. Dual plane remains the most widely performed approach worldwide and is appropriate for many patients.
Preservé Breast Augmentation
Preservé is a tissue-preserving breast augmentation technique that uses specialised instrumentation to place the implant with minimal disruption to the surrounding breast tissue. The inframammary incision is reduced to approximately 2–3 cm — around 50% smaller than a traditional scar. Preservé is associated with faster recovery, less surgical trauma and natural-looking outcomes. It is offered by a very small number of accredited surgeons in the UK.
MIA Breast Augmentation
MIA — Minimally Invasive Augmentation — uses a transaxillary incision of approximately 2–3 cm placed in the armpit, leaving no visible scar on the breast itself. Advanced ergonomic implants and a precision delivery system allow for accurate implant placement with minimal tissue disruption. MIA is an excellent choice for patients who want breast augmentation with no scar on the breast.
Implant Selection: Size, Shape, Profile and Safety
Choosing the right implant is central to achieving a result you will be happy with. Dr Ali Arnaout uses Motiva implants — widely regarded as one of the most advanced breast implant systems available globally, with extensive safety data and a natural feel. Key decisions include:
Volume (cc) — chosen based on chest width, existing breast tissue and the desired result, not simply 'cup size'
Profile — low, moderate or high profile affects how far the implant projects from the chest wall
Shape — round implants create upper pole fullness; anatomical implants follow the natural breast slope
Gel — Motiva implants use a stable, cohesive silicone gel designed to move naturally with the body
3D imaging and implant sizers are used during consultation to help you visualise realistic potential outcomes before making any decisions.
Incision Placement Options
The incision location determines scar placement and, in some cases, technique options:
Inframammary (under the breast fold) — the most versatile and commonly used approach, well-hidden in the natural breast crease; used in traditional and Preservé augmentation
Transaxillary (armpit) — used in MIA augmentation; no scar on the breast at all
Periareolar (around the nipple edge) — less commonly used; associated with some risk to nipple sensation and breastfeeding
Your Consultation with Dr Ali Arnaout
The consultation is the most important step before any breast augmentation. During your appointment, Dr Arnaout will take a full history, examine your anatomy, discuss your goals in detail, recommend an approach and implant, and answer every question. There is no obligation to proceed. Consultations are conducted personally — not by a patient coordinator.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Recovery timelines vary by technique, but general expectations are:
First 48–72 hours: Rest at home; discomfort managed with prescribed pain relief
Light activity only; no liftin, most patients return to desk work within 5 days
Week 1–2: Gradual return to light sports and exercies; supportive post-surgical bra worn throughout
6 weeks onwards: Return to full base line, including no limit on exercise including upper body training
3–6 months: Final result visible as swelling resolves and implants settle
Patients undergoing Preservé or MIA breast augmentation typically recover faster and with less discomfort than those having traditional augmentation, due to significantly reduced surgical trauma.
Results: What to Expect
Breast augmentation with Dr Ali Arnaout is designed to produce results that are proportionate, soft and natural-looking — in keeping with your anatomy and your goals. Modern implants, particularly Motiva, are built with advanced safety profiles and long-term data showing excellent outcomes at 10 years and beyond. Final results are visible at approximately 3–6 months once swelling has fully settled.
Breast Augmentation Cost in London
The cost of breast augmentation in London depends on the technique, implant, hospital and anaesthetic fees. As a general guide:
Traditional breast augmentation in London: from £8,950
Preservé breast augmentation: from £9,750
MIA breast augmentation: from £11,495
All fees — including surgeon, anaesthetic, hospital, implants and follow-up — are discussed transparently at consultation. Finance options are available. When considering cost, experience and surgical quality should always be weighted above price.
Why Choose Dr Ali Arnaout for Breast Augmentation in London?
Dr Ali Arnaout is a GMC-registered Consultant Plastic and Oncoplastic Surgeon practising at Harley Street and iQonic Aesthetics, London. He is one of a very small number of surgeons in the UK accredited in both Preservé and MIA breast augmentation — representing the most advanced tissue-preserving techniques currently available. His practice is built on honest consultation, surgical precision, and natural results tailored to each patient.
Frequently Asked Questions: Breast Augmentation London
How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
Between 30 and 90 minutes under either local anaesthetic or TIVA anaesthesia. Minimally invasive techniques such as Preservé and MIA may be slightly quicker than traditional surgery.
How long is recovery after breast augmentation?
Most patients return to desk-based work within 1–2 weeks and resume light exercise after 4–6 weeks. Full recovery, including implant settling and resolution of swelling, takes approximately 3–6 months.
Is breast augmentation painful?
Some discomfort and tightness is expected in the first few days. This is well-managed with prescribed pain relief. Most patients describe it as manageable and significantly improved by the end of week one. Preservé and MIA are associated with less postoperative discomfort than traditional surgery.
How long do breast implants last?
Modern implants do not have a fixed expiry. Many patients retain their implants for 15–20 years+ or longer without problems. Monitoring is recommended. Replacement is indicated for rupture, capsular contracture or other concerns — not simply because of age.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Most patients can breastfeed after breast augmentation. The ability to breastfeed depends on the incision used and how implants are placed, and is discussed fully at consultation.
What is the best breast augmentation technique?
There is no single 'best' technique — it depends on your anatomy, goals and preferences. Preservé and MIA represent the most advanced tissue-preserving options. The most appropriate approach is determined after a thorough personal assessment.
To book a consultation with Dr Ali Arnaout for breast augmentation in London, contact iQonic Aesthetics at Harley Street. All consultations are conducted personally by Dr Arnaout, with no obligation to proceed.
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