Surgery » Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation, also known as Breast Enlargement or Mammaplasty, is the procedure of using saline or silicone implants to increase the size and/or shape of a woman's breasts.  Breast implants have been used in Breast Augmentation now for over 40 years during which time regular technological advances have been made, resulting in safer and higher levels of satisfaction for the patient. 

Women choose to have Breast Augmentation for a variety of reasons including:

•    Dissatisfaction with the size and shape of their breasts
•    Loss of breast volume due to pregnancy and breast feeding
•    Difference in shape and size between the right and left breasts
•    Reduced size after significant weight loss

Implants can help restore lost self esteem and improve quality of life.  It is important to discuss with your Surgeon what you are hoping to gain from the surgery, as well as the results that can be expected.

Your Consultation with Dr Robert Goldman

There are number of considerations when deciding to have Breast Augmentation.  During your consultation Dr Goldman, he will guide you through each step and provide you with extensive take home reading material to assist you in the decision making process.

At the consultation with Dr Goldman, it will always be helpful if you have an expectation of the result that you are looking for.  Photos and images of women that have a breast size & shape you are considering can be helpful to the process.  Choosing the right size and shape for Breast Augmentation is a partnership between you and the Surgeon.  There are a number of important steps that you will be taken through during the consultation so that you will be able to determine the breast size that is best for you. These steps include detailed measurements of your chest and breasts, reviewing a series of before and after photographs of Breast Augmentation patients, and viewing the complete range of Breast Implants in their various shapes and sizes.

The Procedure

Dr Goldman performs all Breast Augmentation procedures in an accredited hospital facility, using general anaesthesia.  The procedure usually takes between one and two hours.  An incision is first made, a pocket is then carefully created and the implant is inserted. The pocket is then carefully modified to accommodate the implant. The incision is then closed with sutures.

There are three possible incisions methods that can be used in Breast Augmentation surgery:
•    Transaxillary : under the arm
•    Inframammary : under the breast just above the breast fold
•    Periareolar : around the lower edge of the areola

In the vast majority of cases, Dr Goldman prefers the Inframammary method as this method has a number of advantages to the patient.  Regardless of the approach chosen, the incisions are relatively small and generally heal extremely well.

Risk Considerations

Breast augmentation is a relatively straightforward procedure but as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and complications specific to this procedure.

The most common problem is capsular contracture.  When a breast implant is inserted, a scar capsule forms around it as part of the natural healing process.  In 2% to 5% of cases, the capsule may sometimes tighten and compress the implant, causing the breast to feel firmer than normal.  Capsular contracture can occur to varying degrees. If it is severe, it can cause discomfort or changes in the breast's appearance. In such cases, more surgery may be needed to modify or remove the scar tissue, or perhaps remove or replace the implant.

As with any surgical procedure, although uncommon, excessive bleeding following surgery may cause swelling and pain. A small percentage of women may develop an infection around the implant. Whilst the majority of women do not experience complications, you should discuss with Dr Goldman any concerns you have in this regard.

Aftercare & Support

Upon going home after the procedure, you will be fitted with a specialised support bra that we provide.  It will support the breasts in a comfortable healing position.  We request that you wear this bra at all times for approximately 2 weeks except for when showering.  From two weeks after your operation, it may be removed at night for sleeping. We will provide you with medication for any discomfort.  Most patients do not need anything for pain 6 to 7 days after surgery.

During the first week after breast augmentation surgery, you will need to take life very easy, and avoid heavy lifting and excessive movements of your arms.  Activities can be gradually increased after the first week, within your own comfort level. You will be able to shower 48 hours after your surgery.  You should be able to return to your work 1 week after your surgery.  You will need to avoid aerobics and other strenuous exercise for about six weeks after your surgery. It is recommended that air travel be avoided for the first two weeks after surgery.  However if you have any specific concerns, you should discuss them with Dr Goldman.

For the first few weeks after surgery, there will be some swelling in the breast area.  After a few weeks, this swelling settles. You will also have become more accustomed to your new breast size at that time.  Some women report that their nipples become over-sensitive or under-sensitive following breast augmentation surgery.  These findings are most common during the first few weeks after surgery and they are usually temporary.

There will be a review consultation within a fortnight after your surgery when the plasters covering the incision area will be removed.  You will then subsequently be seen by Dr Goldman both 6 weeks and 3 months after surgery.

Aftercare is also an essential part of Dr Goldman's professional service to his clients with a personalised follow-up plan provided at your consultation.