Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job, is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that involves the use of breast implants to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. While breast augmentation is a commonly performed procedure, many people wonder if it is possible to get a boob job on the NHS (National Health Service) in the UK. In this article, we will explore the criteria for getting a boob job on the NHS, the process for obtaining funding, and the alternatives to NHS funding.
Criteria for Getting a Boob Job on NHS
The NHS provides funding for breast augmentation only in specific cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary. The criteria for getting a boob job on the NHS are as follows:
Breast Cancer Reconstruction: Women who have undergone a mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment may be eligible for breast reconstruction surgery on the NHS.
Congenital Breast Deformity: Women who have a congenital breast deformity that causes significant psychological distress may be eligible for breast augmentation on the NHS.
Severe Breast Asymmetry: Women who have severe breast asymmetry that causes significant psychological distress may be eligible for breast augmentation on the NHS.
Polands Syndrome: Women who have Polands Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects breast development, may be eligible for breast augmentation on the NHS.
It is important to note that breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons alone is not covered by the NHS.
Process for Obtaining NHS Funding for Breast Augmentation
If you meet the criteria for getting a boob job on the NHS, you will need to go through a process to obtain funding for the procedure. Here are the steps involved in obtaining NHS funding for breast augmentation:
Consultation with a GP: The first step in obtaining NHS funding for breast augmentation is to schedule a consultation with your GP. Your GP will assess your case and determine if you meet the criteria for breast augmentation on the NHS.
Referral to a Specialist: If your GP determines that you meet the criteria for breast augmentation on the NHS, they will refer you to a specialist. The specialist will assess your case and determine if you are eligible for NHS funding.
Approval from NHS Commissioning Group: If the specialist determines that you are eligible for NHS funding, they will submit a request to the NHS Commissioning Group for approval. The NHS Commissioning Group will review the request and determine if funding will be provided.
Surgery: If funding is approved, you will be scheduled for surgery.
Alternatives to NHS Funding
If you do not meet the criteria for getting a boob job on the NHS, or if funding is not provided, there are alternative options for breast augmentation. These include:
Private Medical Insurance: If you have private medical insurance, you may be able to obtain coverage for breast augmentation. Check with your insurance provider to determine if this is an option.
Financing: Many plastic surgery clinics offer financing options for breast augmentation. This allows you to pay for the procedure over time.
Paying Out of Pocket: If you have the financial means, you can pay for breast augmentation out of pocket. The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on the surgeon, the type of implants used, and the location of the surgery.
Risks and Complications
Breast augmentation, like any surgery, carries risks and complications. These may include bleeding, infection, scarring, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with the plastic surgeon and to follow all post-operative care instructions to minimize the risk of complications.
Tips for a Safe and Successful Breast Augmentation
To ensure a safe and successful breast augmentation, it is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing breast augmentation. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and successful breast augmentation:
Communicate Your Desired Outcome: It is important to have a clear idea of the size and shape you want to achieve and communicate this to the plastic surgeon.
Try On Different Implant Sizes: It is important to try on different implant sizes during the consultation to get a better idea of what the final outcome will look like.
Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions: It is important to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the plastic surgeon. This includes avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the surgical site clean and dry, taking any prescribed medications as directed, and attending all follow-up appointments.
Be Patient: It can take several weeks or even months for the swelling to subside and for the final results to become visible. It is important to be patient during the recovery process.
Conclusion
Getting a boob job on the NHS is only possible in specific cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary. If you do not meet the criteria for NHS funding, there are alternative options for breast augmentation, including private medical insurance, financing, and paying out of pocket. It is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing breast augmentation and to communicate your desired outcome during the consultation. By following the post-operative care instructions provided by the plastic surgeon, you can help ensure a safe and successful breast augmentation.
