What exactly does a boob job involve? How much does it cost? Is it painful? With more than 22 per cent of polled iVillagers admitting they'd do anything to give their boobs a boost, we take a closer look at exactly what's involved...

Have you considered giving your boobs a boost through surgery? Ever wondered what it would be like to go from an A cup to a C cup overnight? Not surprisingly, lots of iVillagers have often dreamt of a perfect cleavage and some have gone ahead and had the op done.

• Where do I start?
• What to expect
• Advice, tips and ideas from iVillagers

I want to boost my boobs - where do I start?
If you're really keen to have a breast augmentation operation (aka - a boob job), your GP should be the first person you see.

While it is possible to have a breast enhancement operation on the NHS, these procedures are extremely rare. It's unlikely your local health authority would have the means to fund such an op, unless the circumstances are extreme, eg your lack of breasts causes you serious mental anguish. What your GP can do is to talk through the procedure with you, recommend reputable surgeons and discuss your options.

Finding a good clinic and surgeon to do your op is also extremely important. For more information on procedures, surgeons and clinics, there are a few sites you should check out:

• The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
• The British association of Plastic Surgeons
• The General Medical Council

iVillager recommendations: 'I'm going for a breast augmentation next month and I can't wait! I'm a 32A and I'm moving to a 32C. I'm so excited! But here's the best bit of advice I can give you: visit to www.implantinfo.com - it's a site for women who've had this procedure. They tell their stories (warts and all, so to speak) and offer great advice on healing, coping with pain and the different things to do before and after surgery. Good luck!
coco2110

What to expect
iVillager maisyb tells her story: 'I had a boob job three weeks ago. I had it done at Transform in Birmingham. I went in on a Wednesday afternoon, had the op and was out by 10am the next morning. I wasn't the slightest bit nervous and never had any second thoughts. I went from a 34B to 34D and it cost £3,950 with free consultation. The hospital staff were great.

'The pain afterwards is mainly caused by bruising around the sides of the breast area and the top of the rib cage. I was told to rest for the first week and then gradually build up my movement. For the first couple of days I didn't really feel like doing anything and I was taking painkillers regularly. As each day went on, the pain reduced and things like reaching up into a cupboard became easier. I didn't like having to sleep propped up for two weeks and not being able to shower/bath properly for the first week until the stitches were taken out - but apart from that, the pain and discomfort was manageable.

'I tried to drive three days after my operation but I wouldn't recommend it - reversing is the hardest thing. But a week later I was fine. I was able to go back to work a week after my operation, but my job doesn't involve any heavy lifting. You just need to use your common sense after your operation. Your body will tell you how much you can do afterwards and when you've overdone it.'
maisyb

Advice, tips and ideas from iVillagers

There's only room for one Jordan!
'I was tempted to go from a 34A to a whopping 34E but a good surgeon will help you to choose a size that looks right and natural for you and your body shape. Instead I opted for a 34D and I'm glad I did - no one wants to have boobs bigger than their head. There's only room for one Jordan in this world!'
melbal35

Taking care of your new breasts
'I recommend taking Arnica straight after the op - it reduces swelling and minimises bruising. Taking Zinc also helps tissue repair. In order to avoid stretch marks, I was advised to massage my breasts regularly, once the stitches were out. I use Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks and so far, I haven't got any. I'm thrilled with my new boobs and would say that they've definitely been worth every penny.'
maisyb