Injectable boob jobs can be done in as little as 15 minutes. Photo / Getty Images
Injectable boob jobs can be done in as little as 15 minutes. Photo / Getty Images
OPINION
Pippa Parker is a UK-based yoga teacher and personal trainer.
I’d felt self conscious of my flat chest all my life, but a “15-minute” injectable boob job has boosted my mood as well as my cup size
Despite being in my late 40s I’ve never target="_blank">tried Botox, or fillers, and I don’t even like straightening my hair because it doesn’t feel “the real me”. So my decision to have breast implants is perhaps surprising. But as much as I pride myself on being “natural,” alas Mother Nature did not bless me in the bosom department.
While my friends all developed curves in their teenage years, I just grew upwards. At 173cm I looked like a beanpole, and endured all sorts of jibes about being an “honorary bloke”, and bizarrely, a “lesbian”. I still remember the boyfriend who remarked I was “one of the lads” with my flat chest, which hurt. This also prompted me to live in Wonderbras for decades and fear I was “tricking” lovers somehow, luring them in with the brand’s famous “Hello Boys” slogan. Only once I’d removed it was a case of “Bye bye, boys”.
I learnt to make jokes myself, and as a yoga teacher I knew I should practise what I preach and accept myself as I was. I also work as a personal trainer, so my body has always been fit and strong. But still, it bothered me.
After suffering a hideous breakup last year, which certainly dented my confidence, I also knew that at some point I might be dipping my toe into the dating waters once more. As a middle-aged woman this is daunting, and was it so wrong to want to feel good about myself? And even, dare I say it, sexy? I wasn’t dead yet, thank you, even if gravity was taking its inevitable toll. What’s more, my boys were all grown up at 21 and 19. My divorce from their father was long behind me. Perhaps it was time to do something for myself?
I felt ridiculous thinking about a “boob job” at my age, I’m hardly a glamour girl or reality TV star. So the only person I confided in that I was thinking about doing so was my mum. I thought she’d laugh, but instead immediately replied: “Good for you, Pippa, it’s about time you put yourself first and this has affected you for years.”
I felt like I had “permission” somehow, but I was still only mulling it over until I finally snapped when I went away this summer. I was on my first ever solo beach holiday to Italy, proud of myself for being an independent woman travelling alone, but awkwardly grappling with my sodden, weighty bikini top padding, desperately trying not to expose a nipple, I thought “enough”.
Did I really want to drift into old age feeling this self-conscious and lacking? I did not.
When I returned home to Tunbridge Wells I began researching clinics. I went for a consultation with a board-certified surgeon, Adrian Richards, first online and then in person where I was measured and deemed mentally fit. I was told I would be a good candidate for Mia, the new “injectable” implants on the market. [Mia is currently available in 12 countries, including the UK, Spain, UAE and Japan, but is not yet available in NZ].
I was able to ask all my questions, and was relieved to know that the implants wouldn’t interfere or stop me having accurate mammograms or breast imaging scans in the future.
My breastfeeding days are long behind me but for younger women the implants shouldn’t interfere with that either.
Recovery from an injectable boob job is faster as no muscle is cut during the procedure. Photo / 123rf
The most appealing thing for me about the whole thing was not needing a general anaesthetic. As a freelancer I simply can’t afford much time off work recovering.
I used my savings to cover the cost of the£9000 (NZ$19,110) procedure (slightly more than traditional breast augmentation which is around £8000). But unlike regular implants, which should be replaced after 10-15 years, the Mia ones can theoretically remain for life. I’ll just need to have them checked after 10 years and then every year or two after that.
I went into the clinic on a Friday lunchtime feeling nervous but excited. I wasn’t allowed to eat that morning because while not “going under” I was still medicated to relax me. I was a little sleepy though awake throughout the procedure which lasted about 40 minutes. (It’s being hailed as a “15 minute boob job,” but mine did take a bit longer.) There was some tugging and pulling but no pain and I climbed off the bed – albeit feeling a little giddy – with just some surgical tape covering the incisions, a sports bra and velcro support belt.
After an hour’s rest I ate my normal lunchtime salad and my son collected me from the clinic. I’m afraid I fibbed about what procedure I was having as I didn’t want him to worry and yes, I admit I felt a bit sheepish about having it done at my age. My sons will find out once they read this, but will know that I am healthy and very happy with the results.
There were days straight afterwards where I did have some pain. After a week I still had stabbing pain three or four times daily, and I felt achey.
By Sunday I couldn’t wait to remove the velcro support belt, and for the first five days I slept propped up on pillows and took antibiotics to prevent infection. For pain I used paracetamol and ibuprofen. I’m not much of a drinker anyway, but it’s wise to avoid alcohol initially. I cut down on coffee and drank more water because I personally felt that staying hydrated would be crucial for my skin to stretch over the new volume in my chest. So I aimed for 1.5 litres a day and when I didn’t drink that, I did feel more sore.
While it’s being billed as a “lunchtime” boob job I would definitely advise some days to rest, especially if you work physically like me. Reaching for the kitchen high shelves was uncomfortable for 10 days or so afterwards, as was reaching for the car seat belt.
Only gentle exercise is recommended in the early days, so walking is fine, but jogging, cycling or lifting heavy weights are not. It’s mainly common sense, so just listen to your body I’d say.
Only gentle exercise is recommended when recovering from the new injectable breast enlargement procedure, which is available in 12 countries - but not yet in NZ. Photo / 123rf
Don’t underestimate recovery – it’s still needed. It’s not something to undertake lightly, because it’s still an operation even without the general anaesthetic.
After a week I had a virtual check-up, and was told to remove the surgical tape myself, I eased it off gently in the shower. I saw that I had two, small purple bruises just where the incisions had been, but it looked very neat and clean. Since then I’ve been using a silicone gel which will help flatten any scarring but it’s really not noticeable.
After three weeks I am still wearing a sports bra, but that’s mostly because I live in them anyway. Other people can remove them after that time and wear regular bras.
I love having more “up top” and how clothes fit better. I just feel more feminine, less saggy and old. I’ve gone from a 32B to a 32D and for the first time in my life can wear non-padded bras and have treated myself to pretty lacey ones in different colours – why not enjoy them? No one has noticed the change apart from me, I’m smiling more because I have more self-confidence.
They feel like real boobs, warm and jiggly. My left one settled sooner whereas my right one looked more “ping” initially, it was more visibly artificial, but that is evening out now as they relax. And when I lie down they slightly flop to the sides as natural boobs would.
Injectable boob jobs aren’t suitable for anyone wanting a dramatic increase in their bust, you can only go up by two cup sizes maximum, which was perfect for me as I had no desire for big “bazookas”.
I wanted a subtle, natural boost and that’s exactly what I’ve got of my confidence as much as cleavage. I’m thrilled. And I still won’t be having any Botox; I’ve got the boobs I should always have had but that’s enough intervention for me. Middle-aged women can feel like we’re relegated to the scrap heap, but why should we? I feel like I’m allowed a new chapter and can’t wait to live it now.
As told to Susanna Galton
Is breast augmentation safe?
“While the benefits associated with these implants are significant and the reduced procedure time is impressive, it’s important to remember that this is still surgery and anatomical risks remain,” says Dr Ash Soni, a plastic surgeon.
“Patients should ensure they consult with a surgeon and undergo a thorough evaluation to determine their suitability for the procedure beforehand - those with thinner breast tissue skin (eg from age) might not be suitable as there can be visible implant rippling.
“It is essential – as with any surgical procedure – to have a board-certified surgeon equipped to handle any potential complications.
“It’s important to note that any implants can change and shift over time, so even those designed to last can need repeat procedures eventually.”
How injectable implants work
With this particular treatment (Mia Breast Harmonisation), a small incision is made in the skin of the armpit (instead of severing the breast tissue as in traditional augmentations).
Then the breast tissue is gently pushed aside by a balloon to create space for the implant, which is diamond-shaped for more “projection” yet less actual volume.
The implants are inserted (hence “injected”) into the breast using a “no-touch technique” device to reduce the risk of infection.
Best for: Those keen to avoid general anaesthesia, the Mia procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with IV sedation. Recovery is quicker since no breast tissue is cut, and the implant is placed above the muscle, reducing post-operative discomfort.
Recovery: Some patients resume their usual activities the same day, but most need slightly longer to rest and recuperate.
Cost: Around £9000 ($19,110).
Breast implants can be used to increase the size or change the shape of breasts.
The different types of breast augmentation
Plastic surgeon Dr Paul Banwell talks us through the various options available in the UK. [For those in NZ, consult a registered plastic surgeon to discuss options].
Minimal scar breast augmentation
Best for: Those who want to increase the size of the breasts or correct asymmetry but for who minimal scarring is a priority, as scars are generally only between 2.6-3.5cm.
How it works: Three techniques can be used to minimise visible scarring by placing small incisions in less noticeable areas, such as the natural fold under the breast, the armpit or belly button.
Recovery: A week or two, then stitches are removed and after six weeks patients can return to most of their normal activities.
Cost: Between £3500 to £8000 including consultations and follow-up care.
Fat transfer-only augmentation
Best for: Breast reconstruction for improving asymmetry and for cosmetic breast enhancement. You need to have enough fat to be taken out and injected into the breast.
How it works: Fat is removed by surgeons via liposuction operations and is then injected into the breasts.
Recovery: Most people can return to work after a week.
Cost: Between £3000 and £8000, depending on the exact procedure and size of area being treated.
Breast uplift surgery
Best for: An uplift or mastopexy is recommended for women with a degree of “sag” or low nipple position. Also for those wanting the areolar diameter made smaller.
How it works: During a breast lift, a plastic surgeon removes excess skin and reshapes breast tissue to raise the breasts. A more complex procedure involving “anchor-pattern” scarring, aiming to lift the nipple higher and tighten the skin envelope.
Recovery: Pain and soreness around the incisions should go in two weeks, numbness and redness can remain for about six weeks.
Cost: Between £7000 and £10,000.
Breast reduction surgery
Best for: Women whose breast size is affecting their physical and psychological health, eg causing neck and back pain, straps digging in or hindering exercise.
How it works: Under general anaesthetic, excess fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts is removed and then reshaped. The op usually takes two to three hours. Scarring around the nipple is likely.
