Do you know the difference between the types of breast surgeries that are available to help reshape your silhouette and enhance your curves? The more that you know about each type of breast surgery, the better prepared you will be to make the right decision to help you meet your cosmetic goals.
There are three types of breast surgery options. Reduction mammoplasty for very large breasts makes them smaller and better in proportion to the frame. Breast lift surgery repositions the breasts so that a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing silhouette is achieved. Breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) surgery alters the size of smaller breasts; it can be used to increase the size of naturally smaller breasts or to create beautiful curves where a woman may not have had them. You can read more about breast augmentation surgery with a Brisbane plastic surgeon on our main page.
There are several options available to the woman who is interested in increasing the size of her breasts. Knowing a little about each option can help you make an informed decision. If you are unsure whether you need more volume, a lift or both, see our comparison of a breast lift and breast augmentation.
An understanding of the meaning of breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) surgery
This surgery increases the size of the breasts using implants. Implants are medical prostheses that are placed inside of the breast. They can augment, reconstruct or reshape the breast. Each procedure is tailored to meet the needs of the individual.
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss with each patient what her desired results and goals are. This can help to determine the type of implant used, the size of the implant and the surgical incisions that are used to place the implant.
You will have at least two consultations before surgery, giving you time to discuss your goals, ask questions and consider your options.
What are the options in breast implants?
There are, generally speaking, two types of breast implants that are widely used. They are saline implants and silicone-gel filled implants.
To best understand breast implants, it’s important to remember that they are a medical prosthesis that are created in a sterile environment. Implants are tested before they are supplied, but they are not lifetime devices, and some people need further surgery to replace or remove them in the future.
Both the saline and silicone-gel implants are encased in a silicone outer shell. The saline implant is filled with a sterile saline solution that is much like salt water. The saline implants are typically inserted empty and then filled with the saline solution once they are in place.
Silicone-gel implants will need to be inserted at their determined size. This can lead to a great difference in the types of incisions that your surgeon will use. Both types are approved for use in Australia by the TGA, and the choice is made with Dr Perron based on your anatomy, your goals and the risks of each option. Our guide to choosing breast implant size and shape covers shapes, profiles and placement in more detail.
Fat grafting, instead of the implant option
Outside of breast implants, fat grafting is also used to augment the size of the breasts. Also known as fat transfer breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty), this approach may suit those who are interested in a relatively small increase in the size of their breasts.
One difference between a fat graft and a small implant is that the volume comes from your own tissue rather than an implant.
Liposuction is used to remove fat from an area of the body where it might be in excess, which could include the stomach or buttocks. This fat is then transferred to the breasts, but it can also be used on other areas of the body and face where the patient may wish to restore youthful plumpness.
What happens during breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Most people go home the same day, although some stay overnight. Like any surgery, it carries risks, which Dr Perron will explain during your consultation along with how they are managed.
Incision options
The incision is usually placed in the crease beneath the breast (inframammary fold), around the edge of the areola (periareolar) or in the armpit (transaxillary). Each option has its own advantages and trade-offs, and the choice depends on your anatomy, the type of implant and your goals.
Implant placement
The implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular), behind the chest muscle (submuscular) or in a dual plane, where the upper part sits under the muscle and the lower part under the breast tissue. Dr Perron will recommend a position after examining you, based on how much natural breast tissue you have, your build and your activity level.
Closing the incisions
The incisions are closed in layers with sutures and supported with skin adhesive or surgical tape. How noticeable your scars become depends on factors such as genetics, how your skin heals, infection and how closely you follow your activity restrictions.
After surgery
Some discomfort, swelling and bruising are expected and are managed with pain relief. Most people return to desk work after one to two weeks and resume most activities by about six weeks, with chest and upper body exercise reintroduced later. The implants usually settle and soften over about three months, so your final shape takes time to become clear. For practical advice, see our tips for the weeks after breast augmentation.
Breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) revision surgery
Breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) revision surgery can be needed if the implants are several years old and have sprung a leak or have ruptured. They may then need to be replaced in order to maintain your results.
Other reasons for revision surgery could include lifestyle changes or perhaps concerns about the safety of the implants themselves. Whether you are looking to restore a natural contour without implants or looking to use another type of implant, you’ll find that you have many options available to you.
To best understand each of your options for breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) and revision surgery, your first step should be to schedule a consultation with Dr Justin Perron.
