Breast Augmentation

People often seek the procedure for aesthetic reasons, to achieve a more ideal breast shape and size, or to reconstruct the breast after a mastectomy. Additionally, if you have had breast implant surgery in the past and wish to remove or replace your implants, you may also seek breast augmentation revision.

Whatever your reasons for seeking this surgery, we will tailor your procedure to your body, health, and aesthetic goals to achieve a great result.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Before your breast implant surgery, a consultation will help clarify whether you are suitable for the procedure. Generally, good candidates are close to their ideal weight, non-smokers, and have realistic ideas about what outcomes to expect. If you are in good health and have concerns about the size or shape of your breasts, you may be a great candidate.

During your consultation, we will assess your condition and discuss your medical history. You will be able to express your aesthetic concerns and what you hope to gain from surgery. Additionally, there are a variety of surgical options to consider when planning your procedure, which we will need to discuss. For example, you will be able to choose the type, shape, size, and substance of your implants. Dr Richardson will explain your options and help you make a decision that is best suited to your body and ideals.

Silicone or saline
Different types of implants come with different risks and benefits. Saline implants have an outer silicone shell that is filled with sterile water once placed into the breast. In comparison, silicone implants are soft and gel-based and are known for creating a more natural look and feel.

Round or teardrop shape
Patients can also choose the shape of their implants. While round implants create more volume in the upper breast, the teardrop shape creates a more tapered, natural appearance. Therefore, you can choose your implant shape to match your desired height or projection.

Textured or smooth
Implants also have different surfaces. Textured implants are considered more stable and are less likely to rotate or migrate from their position once placed. However, for implants that are smaller in volume, smooth implants may produce more effective results.

The Procedure

Every breast augmentation is different, based on the patient’s preferences, health, and natural shape. It is typically performed as a day procedure under general anaesthetic. The duration will depend on the techniques used, but most patients can expect the surgery to take two to three hours. You will need to have someone there to drive you home afterwards and ensure you have support once home.

The surgery may involve inserting or replacing implants. Additionally, some patients may benefit from combining implants with fat grafting to achieve a more ideal breast shape and texture. Fat grafts can aid in creating subtle changes and refine the shape of the breasts.

During implant placement, Dr Richardson will make careful linear incisions to access the underlying breast tissue. These are usually placed in the fold under the breasts in order to hide the incision lines and reduce risks. Dr Richardson then makes a pocket either above or below the pectoral muscle, depending on the factors discussed in your consultation. He will then position the implants and close your incisions, leaving you with an enhanced breast shape.

Cost of Breast Augmentation Surgery

Every patient has different requirements and goals for surgery. As a result, the cost of your breast augmentation will depend on several factors. We will need to consider the hospital fees, anaesthetist fees, medications and other potential post-operative care costs. Your surgery fee will include the cost of the implants. You will be able to ask further questions about costs during your private consultation.

Aftercare

You can expect to stay in the hospital for a few hours after the procedure to begin your recovery. Dr Richardson will monitor your condition and may insert drainage tubes to prevent fluid build-up. As well as this, a surgical bra will help reduce swelling and support the breasts during the healing process.

After you go home from the hospital, you will need to take care of your breasts in order to ensure optimal healing. It is normal to have some pain and swelling around your incisions, as well as some minor bruising. However, these symptoms should resolve on their own as your body heals. We will ensure you receive the appropriate care to aid in your recovery, including pain medication. You will receive specific at-home care instructions, tailored to your case. You may need to:

• Take time to rest, lying on your back with your head elevated
• Wear support garments to help your breasts settle into their new shape
• Refrain from smoking, as smoking can increase your risk of healing issues
• Have someone help you with daily tasks such as cooking and driving
• Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated
• Take time off work and avoid physical tasks

There are certain things you can expect during your recovery, such as:

• Some pain and discomfort
• A tight, firm feeling in the breasts
• Resume mild activities after two to three weeks, but avoid bouncing movements
• Resume your normal exercise routine after six to eight weeks
• You can begin sleeping on your side after six weeks, but avoid sleeping on your stomach
• Breasts will be in an optimal position after six months

Recovery times can vary due to the varying nature of breast surgery. Most patients can resume light tasks like driving after two weeks. Additionally, you should not wear underwire bras for six weeks following your surgery.

Risks and Complications

Although most patients are happy with the results of their breast augmentation, it does come with some risks. If you are considering surgery, it is important to research both the risks and benefits, as this will help you make a confident decision that is right for you. We will discuss the potential complications before your surgery to ensure you are fully informed about the procedure.

Risks can include:

• Changes in breast sensation
• Bleeding and infection
• Reactions to anaesthesia
• Damage to underlying tissues
• Inability to breastfeed
• Implant rupture
• Capsular hardening
• Unwanted results
• Asymmetry
• Further surgery

In order to reduce your risks, it is necessary to take enough time to rest after the procedure and follow your recovery instructions.