Breast Implants (Augmentation)

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts using implants.

This procedure can help women achieve their desired breast size, restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy, and improve the overall balance of their figure.

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide, including in Australia.

Overview of Breast Conditions and Their Causes

Breast augmentation can address various conditions and aesthetic concerns, including:

  1. Small or Underdeveloped Breasts: Some women naturally have smaller breasts or breasts that did not fully develop during puberty.
  2. Asymmetry: Many women have naturally asymmetrical breasts, where one breast is noticeably larger or shaped differently than the other.
  3. Volume Loss: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss, and ageing can lead to a loss of breast volume and firmness.
  4. Reconstruction: Breast implants can be used in breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy due to breast cancer or other conditions.

Several factors can contribute to breast volume loss and asymmetry, including:

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause significant changes in breast size and shape, often resulting in volume loss once breastfeeding is completed.
  • Ageing: As women age, the skin and tissues of the breasts lose elasticity, leading to sagging and loss of volume.
  • Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight gain or loss can affect the size and shape of the breasts.
  • Genetics: Some women naturally have smaller breasts or noticeable asymmetry due to genetic factors.
Breast augmentation involves the placement of implants to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. There are various types of implants and surgical techniques available, allowing the procedure to be highly customised to meet the individual needs and goals of each patient.
  1. Saline Implants:
    • Structure: Filled with sterile saline (saltwater) solution. They are inserted empty and then filled once in place.
    • Advantages: Require a smaller incision and can be adjusted for size during surgery.
    • Disadvantages: May feel less natural compared to silicone implants and have a higher risk of rippling.
  2. Silicone Implants:
    • Structure: Filled with silicone gel, which closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue.
    • Advantages: Provide a more natural look and feel. Less likely to ripple compared to saline implants.
    • Disadvantages: Require a slightly larger incision. In the rare event of a rupture, the silicone may stay within the implant shell or escape into the breast implant pocket.
  3. Gummy Bear Implants:
    • Structure: A type of silicone implant filled with a thicker, cohesive gel that retains its shape even if the implant shell is broken.
    • Advantages: Maintain their shape better and offer a natural feel.
    • Disadvantages: Require a larger incision and can be more expensive.

Surgical Techniques

Inframammary Incision

  • Placement: Made in the fold under the breast.
  • Advantages: Provides good access for precise implant placement and less visible scarring.

Periareolar Incision

  • Placement: Around the edge of the areola.
  • Advantages: Scars blend with the natural border of the areola, making them less noticeable.

Transaxillary Incision

  • Placement: In the armpit.
  • Advantages: No scarring on the breast itself.
  • Disadvantages: More challenging for the surgeon and may have less precise implant placement.

Transumbilical Incision (TUBA)

  • Placement: Through the navel (belly button).
  • Advantages: No visible scarring on the breast.
  • Disadvantages: Limited to saline implants and more technically demanding.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure in Australia

In Australia, breast augmentation is a well-regulated and widely performed procedure by experienced plastic surgeons. The process typically begins with an in-depth consultation to discuss the patient’s goals, examine the breasts, and determine the most suitable implant type and surgical technique.

During this consultation, the surgeon will also explain the risks and benefits of the procedure and set realistic expectations for the outcomes.

Patients are usually advised to:

  • Avoid certain medications, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, which can increase bleeding.
  • Stop smoking, as it can interfere with healing.
  • Arrange for someone to drive them home and assist them for the first 24-hours post-surgery.

Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes between one-to-two hours. The surgeon will make the chosen incision, create a pocket either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement), and insert the implant.

The incisions are then closed with sutures, and dressings or bandages are applied to support the breasts during the initial recovery.

  • Dressings and Bandages: After surgery, the breasts will be wrapped in dressings and a support bra to minimise swelling and support the new breast shape.
  • Pain Management: Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and ensure the best possible outcome.

Recovery from breast augmentation varies, but most patients can expect to return to normal activities within a week, although strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four-to-six weeks. Swelling and bruising typically subside within a few weeks, and the final results become more apparent as healing progresses.

The results of breast augmentation are generally long-lasting, providing an enhanced and more proportionate breast appearance. While implants do not prevent the natural ageing process, most women enjoy the benefits of their surgery for many years.

Breast augmentation can have significant psychological benefits, enhancing self-esteem and confidence. Many women feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance, which can positively impact their social and professional interactions.

Conclusion

Breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure for women seeking to enhance their breast size and shape. In Australia, experienced plastic surgeons perform this procedure with great success, helping patients achieve a more balanced and attractive figure.

Whether addressing congenital conditions or aesthetic concerns, breast augmentation can provide transformative results.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our clinic. Dr Atul Ingle has significant experience performing breast augmentation (implant) surgery and is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals and enhancing your overall quality of life.

Dr Atul Ingle is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Townsville.

He has 20+ years of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery and holds two Master of Surgery Degrees. He is the Head of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department at Townsville University Hospital.

If you have a question about a condition or treatment, or would like to book an appointment, please contact us and one of our friendly staff members will happily assist you.