Breast augmentation surgery is designed to improve or restore volume, shape, and projection of the breasts using implants placed either above or below the breast muscle. The surgery may be reconstructive for patients who have had a mastectomy or experienced other trauma. Breast augmentation surgery can be combined with other procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) based on a patient’s individual needs.
There are a variety of different options and choices to consider when deciding to have breast augmentation surgery that will be discussed with plastic surgeon Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk during consultation, such as:
- The type of implant used
- What shape is best suited to an individual’s goals and body shape
- The type of implant finish required
- The best incision placement to minimise scarring and to suit a patient’s lifestyle
There are two different types of implants used in breast augmentation surgery:
- Silicone Implants
Silicone implants contain an elastic, cohesive gel designed to look and feel like natural breast tissue. The gel tends to stay together even if there is a rupture or leak to the implant itself. Problems such as silicone migration and extracapsular spread are reduced with silicone implants.
- Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with a certain amount of sterile salt water and surrounded by an outer layer of silicone. This may affect the shape, feel, and firmness of the breasts. If a leak occurs, the implant will collapse as the saline is absorbed and naturally expelled into the body.
The next consideration to make is what finish the implants will need to ensure lasting results. Textured implants are a common choice for most patients, as the textured surface provides stability that can lessen the risk of implant migration, whereas smooth implants have a softer feeling and are often used when the breast shape has a lower projection and volume.
Choosing the shape of your implants is also another important choice to make. Both implant types are available in anatomical (teardrop) or round shapes and can offer different benefits depending upon what look a patient is hoping to achieve with their augmentation. All decisions regarding a breast augmentation are discussed with Dr Fraser-Kirk to ensure the most suitable choice is made that considers the health, lifestyle, and personal preferences of each patient.
What can be achieved with a breast augmentation?
There are a variety of reasons patients may consider a breast augmentation, and it is a personal decision that should be made for themselves. A breast augmentation aims to achieve the following:
- Create a natural, fuller breast contour
- Correct undesirable effects from any previous surgeries
- Improve self-esteem and confidence
- Eliminate skin laxity caused by pregnancy, aging, or weight loss
How is a breast augmentation performed?
The procedure is conducted under general anaesthetic and is normally a day procedure unless other surgeries are to be performed with a breast augmentation. Every breast augmentation surgery is conducted with a personalised approach for each patient and will differ depending on what Dr Fraser-Kirk evaluates as the best option for an individual.
Breast augmentation incision types:
- Inframammary Incision
An incision is made under the breast where visible scarring is inconspicuously hidden by the crease of the skin and allows for good manoeuvrability when inserting the implant. This is the most common technique used.
- Periareolar Incision
A semicircular incision is made beneath the nipple around the areola, creating the least visible scarring. However, it does come with potential added risks including loss of nipple sensation and the inability to breastfeed.
- Transaxillary Incision
An incision is made in the armpit area where implants are placed through this incision and can be used in circumstances where there is a potential risk of keloid scarring. This is the least common technique used.
Once the incisions are made, a pocket is created to insert the implants which can differ for every patient to accommodate their health and lifestyle. The pocket locations include:
- Sub-glandular: behind the breast tissue and over the pectoral muscle
- Sub-muscular: under the pectoral muscle
- Dual plane: partially behind the pectoral muscle and mammary gland
After the implants are inserted, the incisions are closed with sutures, and drainage tubes may be inserted in the surgical sites to collect excess fluid or blood. The procedure may take between one to two hours.
What can I expect during recovery?
Immediately following surgery, the breasts are wrapped in dressings and a support bra is fitted to help with the discomfort. Swelling, bruising, and pain may be experienced after surgery which is normal. Soreness and swelling around the breast area can last for several weeks after the procedure.
General recovery instructions:
- Take at least one week off work
- Wear prescribed compression garments
- Take prescribed medications and creams
- Avoid any strenuous activity for up to four weeks
- Attend all post-operative appoints to monitor healing
It is extremely important that patients follow all post-operative care instructions given to them by Dr Fraser-Kirk. Recovery plans are designed to help minimise scarring where possible and achieve a successful post-surgery outcome. Dr Fraser-Kirk will endeavour to be available for any post-operative questions or issues that may arise as we believe that unprecedented access to your surgeon is vital to an optimal recovery.
How much will breast augmentation cost?
Due to the highly personalised nature of this procedure, the cost can vary for every patient, as their personal health and individual goals are considered. At a consultation with Dr Fraser-Kirk, he will discuss with patients their health and wellbeing, their reasons for surgery, and their anticipated outcomes. Factors such as the complexity and length of the procedure, surgeon costs, hospital fees, anaesthetist costs, and post-operative care costs will influence the estimated costs. Post-mastectomy and trauma patients who require a reconstructive breast augmentation may be eligible for Medicare or private health insurance coverage.
If any questions should arise regarding costs, please contact us.
What are the associated risks and complications?
A degree of risks or complications can be present in any procedure patients undergo. These are the associated risks and complications with a breast augmentation surgery:
- Infection
- Excessive bleeding
- Fluid accumulation
- Anaesthesia complications
- Poor scarring
- Changes to breast and nipple sensation
- Rupture of implant
- Capsular contracture
- Persistent pain
- Skin wrinkling over the implant
Proper adherence to the personalised recovery instructions given to patients will help to mitigate the associated risks and complications, including minimising scarring where possible.
Book your surgery with Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk today
Our philosophy is about focusing on the patients and their goals to help empower them in becoming the best versions of themselves. If you are considering a breast augmentation, book an in-depth consultation with Dr Fraser-Kirk where your needs and circumstances will be discussed to help create a tailored surgical plan that suits your lifestyle.
Call Now
Contact Us
Chat Now