Frequently Asked Questions

Why would someone desire to have cosmetic surgery on their breasts?
Is the procedure done in hospital, and how long till I can return to work?
Surgically speaking, how is the procedure done?
How does a patient go about being advised by the Doctor?
After the operation, what can a patient expect?
What results can a patient expect from having the breast enlargement procedure?
What are the possible risks?
What is the cost of a breast enlargement?

Why would someone desire to have cosmetic surgery on their breasts?

Indications for surgery are when someone has:

• small, under developed breasts
• sagging of the breasts (especially after childbirth following breast feeding)
• smaller breasts than are desired
• one, under-developed breast

Is the procedure done in hospital, and how long till I can return to work?

No, usually the procedure is performed under intravenous sedation and local anaesthesia in our Day Surgery Centre. The patient may go home a few hours after the operation. Most patients are able to return to work within one to two weeks.

Surgically speaking, how is the procedure done?

Saline or silicone implants are used. A tiny incision is usually made under the breast. An implant is inserted either on top, or below the muscle of the chest wall.

How does a patient go about being advised by the Doctor?

An initial assessment is necessary to explain the procedure and to determine the size of the implant desired. Usually, the patient will be seen by the doctor two or three times before the procedure. Primarily the patient is advised of any complications that may be possible. The patient is then asked to consider all that has been discussed. If she decides to book for a procedure then the next step is for her to call our centre to arrange a day for surgery. A letter of confirmation is posted - detailing all the information needed in preparation for surgery. The consultation fee is $80 and a Medicare rebate is available. Further consultations after the first incur no charge although a Medicare card will be required.

After the operation, what can a patient expect?

A dressing or a soft elastic bra is worn after the procedure. Swelling and bruising is minimal if existent at all. In fact, in the great majority of cases there is no bruising at all. Mild analgesics can be taken to control any discomfort being experienced. The suture will dissolve within a few weeks. The doctor will want to see you a few days, and again a few weeks after the procedure.

One week after the operation the patient may commence light activities and normal activities can be resumed shortly after this. Obviously, it is best to ensure a period of approximately two weeks away from your usual schedule and not to overdo it.

What results can a patient expect from having the breast enlargement procedure?

A more shapely breast contour with larger and firmer breasts.

What are the possible risks?

• Bleeding - immediately post-operatively
• Infection - a few days after the surgery
• Capsule contraction (a long term possibility - a few months afterwards)
• Keloid scar formation 6-12 months after the procedure - often only if susceptible to this type of scarring.

What is the cost of a breast enlargement?

The total cost is usually around $8,000. This includes the accommodation fee, anaesthesia fee, operation theatre fee, recovery fee, surgeon's fee, nurse's fee and the cost of the implants.

Costs are approximate and quite individual according to what result is expected and they can be confirmed at the time of consultation.

Depending on the level of cover, some health funds may assist in a partial rebate for any theatre and accommodation expense. Although we will provide as much information as possible as to how to get an approximation of the rebate due, the enquiry will need to be made by the patient, through the particular health fund.