Introduction
Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures worldwide, designed to enhance breast shape and size. Whether you are considering surgery for aesthetic reasons or after pregnancy, weight loss, etc; understanding the procedure and making an informed choice are crucial.
This guide will explain what breast augmentation involves, who is a good candidate, the different implant options, and what to expect during recovery.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances breast volume and contour using breast implants or, in some cases, fat transfer. It can address:
✅ Naturally small breasts
✅ Loss of volume after pregnancy or breast-feeding or weight loss
✅ Mild asymmetry between breasts (if significant asymmetry, other type of breast aesthetic surgery will be required)
The procedure is highly customisable, allowing patients to choose implant size, shape, and placement to achieve natural, proportionate results.
Who Is a Good Surgical Candidate?
You may be suitable for breast augmentation if you:
- Are over 18 years old and in good health
- Have fully developed breasts
- Want to enhance breast size, restore lost volume, or improve symmetry
- Have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks and limitations
✅ Not suitable: Women who are pregnant, breast-feeding, or with untreated breast health issues should delay surgery.
Implant Options & Surgical Techniques
- Implant Shape / Type
- Round Implants: Provide more upper-pole fullness.
- Anatomical (Tear-Drop) Implants: Designed for a natural slope; used selectively based on anatomy.
- Ergonomic implants: Specific implants designed to shift and adapt to the body’s position, becoming rounder when lying down and taking on a teardrop shape when standing, closely resembling natural breast movement.
- Placement Options
- Sub-glandular (under the native breast tissue) or Sub-fascial (just above muscle): Quicker recovery but less coverage for thin patients (might not be possible if there is limited soft tissue thickness).
- Sub-muscular (under pectoralis muscle) / Dual plane (partially under muscle & glandular tissue): More natural contour in slimmer patients; slightly longer recovery.
- Incision Site
- Preferred – Infra-mammary fold (under the breast fold): Most common and predictable scar location, which is usually well hidden.
- Secondary – Axillary crease: For selected patients choosing smaller volume implants.
- Other types – Circum-areolar (more historic technique) or Umbilical (less common)
- Concurrent breast adjustment / lift (i.e. mastopexy) or fat grafting to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the breasts
Your surgeon will help determine the best combination based on your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.
How to Prepare for Surgery
- Choose a Qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Ensure your surgeon holds FRACS (Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery) certification and has experience in aesthetic breast surgery. - Discuss Your Goals
Ask to review before-and-after photos, and consider 3D imaging / simulation if available for visualising implant choices. - Lifestyle Adjustments
Stop smoking (smoke-free for minimum of 6 weeks), maintain stable weight, avoid upper body & upper limb exercise for the first 6 weeks, and arrange for 1–2 weeks off work to allow for proper healing.
What to Expect During Recovery
- First Few Days: Soreness, tightness, and mild bruising are common. Pain is usually manageable with oral medications. A course of oral antibiotics to be completed, as per instruction.
- Returning to Work: Most patients return to desk work within 5–7 days, but avoid strenuous exercise for at least 6-8 weeks, particularly for the upper body or upper limbs.
- Final Results: Implants “settle” over several months, with final shape and position visible at 3–6 months post-surgery.
Risks and Safety Considerations
Breast augmentation is safe when performed by an experienced specialist, but risks include:
- Need for revision surgery (either due to scarring / soft tissue differences & aging process, or implant replacement, etc)
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue hardening around the implant)
- Implant rupture or deflation (rare with modern implants) or mal-rotation (if anatomical shaped implants used)
- Temporary changes in nipple sensation
- BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) – a very rare blood cancer, found to be associated with specific type of implant outer shell texturing.
Regular follow-up and implant monitoring are essential for long-term safety.
How Long Do Implants Last?
Modern implants are designed to be long-lasting, but they are not lifetime devices. Most patients will eventually require a revision or replacement, typically after 10 years, or sooner if issues arise.
Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?
Breast augmentation can improve body shape and enhance natural proportions, but it should be a personal choice made for your own goals. Always choose a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon who prioritises safety and natural results.
About Dr Paul Cheng
I’m Dr Paul Cheng, FRACS, a Specialist Plastic, Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgeon practising on the Gold Coast and in Ballina, NSW. My approach to breast surgery focuses on individualised planning and natural-looking results.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, please book a consultation or follow me on Instagram @dr.paulcheng for educational updates.