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Breast Augmentation

breast augmentation

Led by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS)

  • Board Certified Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon
  • Individualised consultations and planning
  • Clear communication at every stage
  • Experienced, approachable clinical team
  • Comprehensive post-procedure support
  • Purpose-built modern clinic
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illustration of a woman with augmented breasts

Many patients seek breast augmentation to increase breast volume, modify breast shape, or make their breasts more symmetrical. Choosing the right size, shape, and position of breast implants involves numerous considerations.

At West Coast Plastic Surgery, Dr. Qadir Khan (MED0001546567) provides professional guidance through this decision-making process.

What is breast augmentation surgery?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that may involve the use of implants or fat transfer to adjust breast volume. The procedure can address changes in breast appearance due to factors like aging, weight loss, or post-pregnancy changes.

Making an informed decision

The decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery is personal and should be carefully considered. For those in Perth considering breast implant surgery, it’s essential to understand both the technical aspects of the procedure and the recovery process. Informed decision-making requires comprehensive knowledge about breast augmentation surgery, including potential risks and realistic outcomes.

This content has been medically reviewed by Dr Khan, MBBS, MRCS (Edin), FRACS (Plast)

What to Expect

What to expect?

Consultation Process

Your first step is to contact West Coast Plastic Surgery to discuss breast augmentation consultation options.

While a GP referral will be required for the actual medical consultation (which may enable a Medicare rebate), you can initially reach out to discuss preliminary information.

Contact Options

Phone: 08 6230 3041
Email: admin@wcps.au

Fill out the contact form on this page

A team member will assist you in providing initial information and scheduling options.

Please note: A GP referral will be necessary for any medical consultation.

During your initial recovery, you may experience swelling and discomfort that can be managed with medication. Most patients can resume light, normal activities when they feel ready, typically within a few days, though individual experiences may vary.

The recovery process generally extends over several weeks. Dr. Khan will provide detailed, personalized post-operative instructions following your surgery.

The final appearance of breast implants develops gradually as swelling subsides over several weeks after surgery. Complete healing and final results may take longer depending on individual factors.

Breast augmentation procedures are tailored to each patient’s individual needs and anatomical considerations. The cost of breast augmentation varies based on several factors, including:

  • Surgeon’s professional fees
  • Hospital or facility fees
  • Anesthesia fees
  • Implant type and brand
  • Post-surgery support garments
  • Follow-up appointments

During your consultation, Dr. Khan will conduct a comprehensive assessment and provide a detailed cost estimate specific to your procedure. This individualised approach ensures you receive accurate financial information based on your specific surgical plan.

Results that Matter

breast augmentation before and after
breast augmentation before and after
breast augmentation before and after
breast augmentation before and after
breast augmentation before and after
breast augmentation before and after
breast augmentation before and after

*Individual results vary as the outcomes experienced by one person do not necessarily reflect the outcomes that other people may experience, as results may vary due to many factors, including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise. Please schedule the initial consultation so we can review your case and show you similar patient results.

Reasons for Considering Breast Augmentation

Increased Breast Size

Breast volume can be increased using implants or fat transfer techniques, depending on your individual body characteristics and goals. A detailed consultation with a qualified surgeon can help determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on individual anatomical characteristics and medical considerations.

It’s a little-known fact, but absolute symmetry in the human body is rare. Breast asymmetry is a common anatomical variation in human physiology. While most individuals have some degree of natural variation between their breasts, significant differences in size or shape may impact. Surgical approaches exist to address pronounced breast asymmetries through precise medical techniques. These may include procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, or the use of differently sized implants to address structural variations. A comprehensive medical consultation can help determine the most appropriate surgical approach for individual anatomical characteristics.
Over time, many changes may  occur to the body. Significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and other natural processes can impact breast tissue volume and shape. These experiences can lead to variations in breast appearance. Breast augmentation procedures offer surgical options to address physical changes in breast volume and contour. A comprehensive medical consultation can help determine appropriate surgical approaches tailored to individual patient needs.

Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure addressing various medical and physiological conditions affecting breast tissue. Patients may seek reconstruction due to congenital conditions, significant tissue loss from injury, developmental abnormalities, or following breast cancer treatment.

Some individuals require surgical intervention to address chest wall asymmetries, developmental disorders, or to restore breast contours after mastectomy. Each reconstructive journey is unique, involving careful medical assessment to determine the most appropriate surgical approach tailored to the patient’s specific anatomical and medical needs.

Dr Khan's Breast Augmentation Consultation Process

A clear structured approach to your care
numbers

Discussion of Goals

Patients are encouraged to share their reasons for considering breast augmentation. This discussion helps Dr. Khan understand your objectives and address any questions you may have.

Physical Assessment

A clinical examination is conducted to assess factors such as breast tissue, chest wall dimensions, and symmetry. This information helps determine appropriate surgical approaches.

Review of Options

Dr. Khan explains available options regarding implant types, potential incision locations, and implant placement techniques. The discussion includes relevant advantages and considerations for each option.

Information About Outcomes

The consultation includes a discussion about realistic surgical outcomes, potential limitations, and the recovery process. This information helps patients develop informed expectations about what breast augmentation can and cannot achieve.

Types of Breast Implants

One of the key decisions in the breast augmentation journey is choosing the type of implant that aligns best with your aesthetic goals and individual circumstances. With advancements in medical technology, today’s market offers several types of breast implants, each with its unique characteristics.

Silicone

Silicone breast implants contain a cohesive silicone gel inside a silicone shell. Many patients choose these implants because of their consistency, which may feel similar to breast tissue. This characteristic can contribute to the overall shape and contour of the augmented breast.

In terms of appearance, silicone implants may be less likely to show visible rippling through the skin compared to some other implant types, particularly in patients with thinner breast tissue. This factor can be important for some patients when considering implant options.

Modern silicone implants are designed with a focus on safety. The cohesive gel used in current implants is formulated to maintain its shape. If an implant rupture occurs, the gel typically remains within the implant shell or may be contained by the surrounding tissue capsule that forms naturally around the implant.

It’s important to note that breast implants are not lifetime devices. The longer implants remain in place, the greater the likelihood of developing complications or requiring revision surgery. Patients should be prepared for potential additional surgeries during their lifetime.

The decision to choose silicone implants should be made after thorough discussion with your surgeon about the characteristics, potential benefits, and risks associated with this implant type compared to other available options.

Saline breast implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with sterile salt water (saline). The composition and structure of these implants result in specific physical characteristics that differ from silicone gel implants.

Regarding appearance and feel, saline implants may have different tactile properties compared to silicone implants. Saline implants can sometimes exhibit visible rippling, particularly in patients with thinner breast tissue coverage. This can vary between individuals.

There are several specific characteristics of saline implants that patients may consider:

  • Potential for smaller incisions: Saline implants are inserted empty and then filled once in position. This can allow for smaller incisions compared to pre-filled silicone implants, which may be a consideration for some patients.
  • Visible rupture detection: If a saline implant ruptures, the breast typically changes in size or shape as the saline is absorbed by the body. This makes ruptures immediately noticeable, unlike silicone implant ruptures which may require imaging to detect.
  • Adjustable volume: The volume of saline implants can be adjusted during surgery, allowing for greater precision in addressing breast asymmetry in some cases.

The selection between saline and silicone implants should be based on a discussion with your surgeon about how these specific characteristics align with your anatomy and surgical considerations.

Round breast implants have a circular shape when viewed from the front. This shape may provide more volume in the upper portion of the breast compared to some other implant shapes.

One characteristic of round implants is their symmetrical design. Due to their symmetrical design, if a round implant rotates within the breast pocket, the appearance of the breast may remain relatively unchanged, though this can vary depending on individual factors. This differs from anatomical implants, which may cause a visible change in breast shape if rotation occurs.

The selection of implant shape should be discussed with your surgeon, who can explain how different shapes may interact with your existing breast tissue and anatomy.

Anatomical breast implants, also known as teardrop implants, have a graduated shape with more volume in the lower portion and less fullness in the upper part. This shape creates a different contour compared to round implants.

The shape of anatomical implants can affect the projection and profile of the augmented breast. Due to their asymmetrical design, if an anatomical implant rotates within the breast pocket, it may alter the breast shape, and in some cases, corrective surgery may be required.

Studies have reported rotation rates ranging from approximately 0.9% to 14% of cases, depending on multiple factors including surgical technique, implant characteristics, and patient anatomy. To reduce this possibility, anatomical implants typically have a textured surface designed to promote tissue adherence and minimise movement within the breast pocket.

Your surgeon can discuss your individual risk factors and the measures taken during surgery to minimise the likelihood of rotation.

Smooth breast implants have a non-textured silicone outer shell. This smooth surface allows the implant to move within the breast pocket, which may affect how the breast feels and moves following augmentation.

Choice of smooth vs textured implants is influenced by skin quality, amount of breast tissue, previous breast surgery etc., which in turn may affect implant durability.

Textured breast implants have a roughened surface designed to interact with the surrounding breast tissue. This texturing can help reduce implant movement within the breast pocket, which may be particularly beneficial for anatomical (teardrop) shaped implants where maintaining proper orientation is important.

Some patients and surgeons consider textured implants for specific clinical situations. These include cases where reducing the risk of capsular contracture (the formation of tight scar tissue around the implant) is a priority, or when using anatomical implants where stability in position can help maintain the desired breast shape.

Textured implants have been associated with a condition called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The risk varies based on the degree of texturing, with higher-textured implants posing greater risk. Macro-textured implants have been withdrawn from the Australian market since 2019 due to these concerns.

Your surgeon can provide current information about the different types of textured implants available, their associated risks and benefits, and how these factors might relate to your specific circumstances.

Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery

Preparing appropriately for breast augmentation surgery can help support the surgical process and recovery. Understanding what to expect before your procedure can assist in planning and preparation.

 

Pre-Operative Assessment

Before surgery, a pre-operative assessment is typically conducted. This may include reviewing your medical history to identify any factors that could affect the procedure or recovery. A physical examination will often assess breast size, shape, symmetry, skin quality, and chest wall characteristics. In some cases, additional tests such as mammograms, other imaging, or blood tests may be recommended to gather further information before surgery.

 

Pre-Operative Guidance

As your surgery date approaches, you will receive specific pre-operative instructions. These often include guidelines about diet, hydration, and medications.

 

Smoking can affect healing, so patients who smoke are typically advised to stop smoking for a period before and after surgery. Alcohol consumption may also need to be limited or avoided before surgery.

 

Preparing your home environment for recovery can be helpful. Having essential items within reach and arranging assistance, especially if you have responsibilities such as caring for children or pets, may help during the initial recovery period.

 

Fasting instructions are commonly provided for the hours before surgery. Following all pre-operative instructions from your surgical team is important for anaesthesia safety and surgical preparation.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Understanding the breast augmentation surgical process can help patients prepare for their procedure. This section outlines the typical steps involved in breast augmentation surgery.

 

Anaesthesia and incision options

Breast augmentation procedures typically begin with the administration of anaesthesia:

  • Anaesthesia: Breast augmentation is generally performed under general anaesthesia, which allows the patient to be unconscious during the procedure.
  • Incision Options: Several incision locations may be considered for implant placement:
    • Inframammary: An incision made in the crease under the breast. This is a commonly used approach.
    • Periareolar: An incision made around the edge of the areola.
    • Transaxillary: An incision made in the armpit area, which avoids incisions on the breast.
    • Transumbilical (TUBA): A less common approach involving an incision near the navel.

Dr. Khan will discuss incision options during consultation, considering factors such as anatomy, implant type, and surgical considerations.

 

Placement of breast implants

After the incision is made, the implant is positioned in one of two main placement options:

  • Subglandular (or submammary): Positioning the implant between the breast tissue and chest muscle. This placement may be suitable for patients with adequate existing breast tissue.
  • Submuscular (or subpectoral): Positioning the implant partially or completely beneath the pectoral muscle. This placement is often considered for patients with thinner breast tissue and may be associated with a different rate of certain complications such as capsular contracture.

 

Duration of surgery

A standard breast augmentation procedure typically takes approximately one to two hours to complete. The duration may vary depending on the specific surgical details and whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are performed simultaneously.

Recovery from Breast Augmentation

After undergoing breast augmentation, the recovery process begins. This phase requires patience, adherence to instructions, and understanding of what to expect. For those in Perth who have undergone this procedure, being well-informed about the recovery process is essential. Here’s what to anticipate during the post-operative phase:

Post-Operative Care Instructions

The recovery period following breast augmentation surgery involves several considerations. Post-operative care recommendations typically aim to support healing and minimise complications.

Post-surgical dressings

After surgery, dressings or bandages are typically placed over the incisions. These dressings help protect the surgical sites and may help reduce the risk of infection. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions about keeping these dressings dry and when they can be removed or changed.

Surgical drains

Breast augmentation surgery, usually, doesn’t involve insertion of surgical drains. However, some patients may have surgical drains placed during the procedure. These thin tubes help remove excess fluid from the surgical area. If drains are used, your surgical team will provide instructions on how to empty and measure the drainage. Changes in drainage volume, colour, or consistency should be reported to your healthcare provider.

Post-Surgical Garments

A surgical bra or sports bra without underwires may be recommended during the initial recovery period. These garments can provide support to the breasts while the tissues are healing. Your surgeon will advise when you can resume wearing your regular bras.

Sleeping Position

During the early recovery period, sleeping on your back may be recommended to avoid placing pressure on the breasts. Your surgeon will provide guidance about when you can safely return to your preferred sleeping position.

Post-operative discomfort can occur after breast augmentation surgery, and its intensity may vary depending on the individual.

Your surgeon may prescribe medication to help manage post-operative discomfort, depending on your individual needs and the specifics of your surgery. It is recommended to follow the prescribed dosage schedule for optimal pain management. Be sure to discuss with your surgical team before taking additional over-the-counter medications or changing dosages.

Cold compresses can sometimes help reduce swelling. However, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidance on whether cold therapy is appropriate for you. If using cold therapy, avoid placing ice directly on the skin, and instead wrap the cold pack in a cloth before application.

Many patients experience sensations of tightness or discomfort in the chest area after breast augmentation. These sensations are typically due to the adjustment of tissues to the implants. If you experience any concerns about pain during recovery, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure effective management.

Recovery from breast augmentation typically involves balancing rest with gradual return to physical activities. Activity guidelines aim to support healing while preventing complications.

In the early post-operative period, rest is generally recommended. Limiting movement initially may help protect the surgical site and allow the healing process to begin.

As recovery progresses, light activities such as walking may be gradually reintroduced. Gentle movement can promote circulation, which may support the healing process and help reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots.

More strenuous activities, particularly those involving chest muscles or heavy lifting, are typically restricted during the initial recovery period. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance about when specific activities can be safely resumed based on your individual recovery and surgical details.

Regarding driving, several factors may influence when it is appropriate to resume. These include your comfort in performing necessary movements, your alertness, and whether you are taking medications that could affect your ability to drive safely. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance about when driving may be resumed in your specific case.

After breast augmentation surgery, follow-up appointments with your surgeon are an important part of the post-operative process. These appointments help monitor healing and address any concerns that may arise.

An initial post-operative appointment typically occurs within the first week after surgery. During this visit, your surgeon may examine the incisions, check the implant positioning, and evaluate your overall recovery progress. If surgical drains were placed, they may be removed during this or a subsequent appointment, depending on your individual healing.

For patients with non-absorbable sutures, an appointment for suture removal may be scheduled. The timing of suture removal depends on the specific surgical technique used and your individual healing process.

Long-term follow-up appointments may be recommended to monitor your implants over time. The frequency of these appointments can vary based on individual factors and your surgeon’s recommendations.

Between scheduled appointments, contacting your surgeon about any concerns is important. Symptoms such as increased pain, new swelling, redness, warmth, or other unexpected changes should be reported to your healthcare provider promptly.

Long-Term Considerations After Breast Augmentation

After breast augmentation surgery, certain factors may help maintain the results over time. Here are some considerations for the years following your procedure:

 

Supportive garments

Wearing supportive bras, particularly during physical activity, may help support the breast tissue and implants. This support can be especially relevant during high-impact activities.

 

Weight management

Significant weight fluctuations can affect breast tissue volume and appearance. Maintaining relatively stable weight may help preserve consistency in breast appearance after augmentation.

 

Scar care

Surgical scars may darken with sun exposure. Minimising direct sunlight on healing or recent scars, using sunscreen, or covering the area with clothing are options for scar management.

 

General health practices

Overall health practices such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking may contribute to general well-being after surgery. Smoking in particular can affect wound healing and tissue health.

 

Ongoing monitoring

Becoming familiar with how your breasts feel after recovery may help you notice any changes. Regular breast self-examinations are recommended, and any concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon may also be recommended to monitor your implants over time.

Risks & Complications

All surgical procedures involve a degree of risk. While many people undergo breast reduction surgery with no complications, it is important to understand that each person’s body is different, and outcomes can vary. During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss any concerns and ask questions so you can make an informed decision.

Some risks associated with breast reduction surgery may include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding / hematoma, wound breakdown / healing issues
  • Hypertrophic / keloid
    scars
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Seroma
  • Pain
  • Breast / nipple asymmetry
  • Scar asymmetry
  • Nipple paresthesia
  • Implant exposure
  • Implant malposition
  • Implant rupture
  • Capsular contracture
  • Breast implant illness
  • Breast implant associated lymphoma
  • Revision surgery
  • Clot in legs and
    lungs.

Dr Qadir Khan will take time to talk through the risks and benefits specific to your situation. You are also encouraged to consider seeking a second opinion from another qualified health practitioner.

Why Choose Us

Experienced Medical Professionals

Experienced Medical Professionals

Our highly qualified practitioners bring extensive expertise in cosmetic medicine and skin rejuvenation, delivering safe, effective treatments tailored to your individual needs.

Advanced Treatment Technologies 

Advanced Treatment Technologies 

We utilise the latest medical-grade equipment and proven treatment modalities to address multiple skin concerns with precision and effectiveness.

Personalised Treatment Approach

Personalised Treatment Approach

Every patient receives a thorough consultation and customised treatment plan based on your specific concerns, skin type, and aesthetic goals.

Commitment to Natural Looking Results

Commitment to Natural-Looking Results

We prioritise subtle, natural-looking outcomes that refresh and rejuvenate your features without appearing overdone or artificial.

Transparent Pricing and Consultations

Transparent Pricing and Consultations

We provide honest communication about treatment options, expected outcomes, and costs so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Comprehensive Aftercare Support

Comprehensive Aftercare Support

We provide thorough aftercare guidance, follow-up appointments, and ongoing support to ensure you achieve the best possible outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a good candidate for breast augmentation?

A good candidate for breast augmentation is someone in good general health, at a stable weight, a non-smoker or willing to stop before and after surgery, and holding realistic expectations about what surgery can and cannot achieve. Surgery is deferred during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and most surgeons recommend waiting around six months after breastfeeding ends for breast volume to stabilise. Where breast tissue has also descended, implants add volume but do not lift, so a combined augmentation and breast lift may suit you better. Dr Qadir Khan will tell you directly at consultation if breast augmentation is not the right procedure for your goals.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices and are generally considered to have a working life of around 10 to 15 years, although many remain intact well beyond that and there is no need to replace them on a fixed schedule if they are functioning well and causing no symptoms. What rises over time is the likelihood of further surgery, whether for capsular contracture, implant rupture, a change in implant position, or simply a change in what you want. Anyone considering breast implants should plan for the realistic possibility of at least one further procedure during their lifetime. Dr Khan discusses long-term monitoring and revision at your consultation so the decision is made with the full picture.

Most women who have had a breast augmentation are able to breastfeed, although it cannot be guaranteed for any individual, and a proportion of women who have never had surgery also experience difficulty. Two surgical factors matter most. Incision location is one, since a periareolar incision around the areola carries a somewhat higher chance of affecting milk ducts and nipple sensation than an inframammary or transaxillary incision. Implant placement is the other, since submuscular and dual plane positions sit further from milk-producing tissue than subglandular placement. If you plan to breastfeed in future, tell Dr Khan at your consultation, because it can influence both the incision and the placement he recommends.

Mammograms can still be performed after breast augmentation, but implants require modified imaging technique, so tell the clinic you have implants when you book rather than when you arrive. Radiographers use additional displacement views, known as the Eklund technique, which move the implant back against the chest wall so more breast tissue can be captured. This takes longer than a standard mammogram and involves more images, and in some cases ultrasound or MRI is recommended alongside it. BreastScreen WA and some other major radiology clinics do screen women with implants, so confirm their current requirements at booking. Continue routine screening for your age and risk profile, keep up regular self-examination, and report any new lump or skin change to your GP.

Patients seeking breast augmentation in Australia must generally be at least 18, and there is no upper age limit, because suitability is assessed on your general health and anatomy rather than your date of birth. Under Medical Board of Australia rules, patients under 18 are subject to additional protections, including a three-month cooling-off period and a mandatory assessment by a registered mental health practitioner before any cosmetic procedure. For older patients, factors such as cardiovascular health, current medications, and the quality of existing breast tissue are weighed during pre-operative assessment. Dr Khan will explain how your individual health circumstances, rather than your age alone, affect surgical planning.

Breast augmentation scars are permanent but are placed to sit discreetly, and their appearance depends on the incision used. An inframammary incision leaves a fine scar in the crease beneath the breast, concealed by the breast itself and by bras and swimwear. A periareolar incision follows the lower edge of the areola, where it blends with the natural change in skin colour. A transaxillary incision is made in the armpit and leaves no scar on the breast at all. Scars are typically raised and pink for the first few months, then flatten and fade over roughly 12 to 18 months. Sun protection matters, because healing scars darken permanently with UV exposure. Dr Khan will advise which incision suits your anatomy and when to begin scar management.

Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia, administered by a specialist anaesthetist, so you are fully asleep for the entire procedure. Surgery itself usually takes about two hours, though you should allow most of the day at hospital once admission, preparation and recovery-room time are included. It is commonly performed as day surgery, with some patients staying one night depending on their surgical plan, social / demographic requirements, and their anaesthetist’s assessment. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night. Combining augmentation with a breast lift or fat transfer extends theatre time. Your anaesthetist reviews your medical history and discusses anaesthetic risk with you before surgery.

Exercise resumes in stages after breast augmentation. Gentle walking is encouraged from day two or three to support circulation, longer walks and light lower-body work are usually reasonable at weeks two to three, and cardio is reintroduced progressively from around week four. Chest and upper-body work, including push-ups, chest press and overhead lifting, is the last category to return and typically waits until at least six weeks, particularly with submuscular or dual plane placement. In the early weeks, heavy lifting means anything above roughly two to five kilograms, which includes a toddler or a full shopping bag, so arrange help at home in advance. Swimming and spas wait until incisions are fully sealed. Dr Khan will confirm the timeline for your surgery.

Breast implants can be removed at any time, whether for medical reasons or personal choice, in a procedure performed under general anaesthesia. Common reasons include capsular contracture, implant rupture, replacing ageing implants, or simply deciding you no longer want them. Depending on the circumstances, removal may include taking out the surrounding scar capsule, and some patients combine removal with a breast lift or fat transfer to the breast to address the appearance of the breast afterwards. Breasts will not necessarily return to their pre-augmentation appearance, particularly if the implants were large or in place for many years. Dr Khan will explain the likely outcome for your situation before you decide.

Breast augmentation performed for cosmetic reasons has no Medicare Benefits Schedule item number, so it attracts no Medicare rebate and no private health insurance contribution toward the surgery, and you should budget for the full cost out of pocket. Narrow exceptions apply where implant surgery is reconstructive rather than cosmetic, such as breast reconstruction after mastectomy, correction of significant congenital asymmetry, or tuberous breast deformity, each of which carries its own item number and strict eligibility criteria. Because a GP referral is required before any cosmetic surgery consultation in Australia, the consultation itself may attract a Medicare rebate even though the surgery does not. Dr Khan will confirm at consultation whether any item number applies to your case.

Breast augmentation can be funded through a practice payment plan, a dedicated medical finance provider, or a personal loan, and most Australian patients paying for cosmetic surgery use one of these. Early release of superannuation is not available for cosmetic breast augmentation, because the ATO permits early release on compassionate grounds only for treatment of a medical condition, so any service promising superannuation release for a purely cosmetic procedure should be treated with caution. It is also worth budgeting beyond the initial surgery, since implants are not lifetime devices and further surgery to replace or remove them may be needed at some stage. Contact our team to discuss the payment arrangements currently available.

Breast augmentation is surgery that increases breast volume, changes breast shape or improves symmetry, using either breast implants or a transfer of your own fat. It is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes two hours. Patients most often consider it to increase breast size, to restore volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss, to address noticeable asymmetry between the breasts, or as part of breast reconstruction. Where the breasts have also descended, augmentation is sometimes combined with a breast lift, since implants add volume but do not lift breast tissue on their own. At West Coast Plastic Surgery in West Perth, breast augmentation is performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS, MED0001546567).

Breast augmentation recovery follows a broadly predictable timeline. The first three days are the most uncomfortable, most patients take one to two weeks off work, and full unrestricted activity generally resumes at around six weeks. Swelling and chest tightness settle noticeably through weeks two to four, your first post-operative review with Dr Khan falls within the first week, and the support garment is worn as directed throughout the early period. The implants then settle into their final position over three to six months, while scars continue to mature for 12 to 18 months. Recovery takes longer when augmentation is combined with a breast lift, and individual healing varies, so Dr Khan will give you a timeline specific to your surgery.

Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated on pillows or a wedge for the first two to six weeks after breast augmentation, since elevation reduces swelling and keeps pressure off the healing breasts. Most patients are cleared to return to side sleeping at around four to six weeks, once swelling has settled and the implants have begun to settle into position, while stomach sleeping usually waits six to eight weeks and often longer with larger implants. The post-surgical support bra is generally worn continuously, including overnight, for the first few weeks, with many patients continuing in a soft supportive bra at night for some weeks after that. These are typical timeframes, and Dr Khan’s instructions for your surgery take precedence.

Most patients resume driving one to two weeks after breast augmentation, and three days is generally too early. Three conditions need to be met first. You must be completely off prescription opioid pain medication, since driving under its influence is both unsafe and an offence in Western Australia. You must be able to perform an emergency manoeuvre, including checking blind spots and turning the wheel sharply, without pain or hesitation. And you must be alert enough to react normally. It is also worth checking your motor vehicle insurance policy, as some insurers exclude cover if you drive against medical advice following surgery. Confirm with Dr Khan that you are cleared to drive before getting behind the wheel.

Breast augmentation is a commonly performed and well-studied operation, but like all surgery it carries risk, and understanding those risks is part of informed consent. More common complications include bleeding or haematoma, infection, seroma, changes in nipple sensation that may be temporary or permanent, asymmetry and problematic scarring, alongside the anaesthetic and clot risks that apply to any general anaesthetic. Implant-specific risks include capsular contracture, implant rupture, malposition, rippling and the possibility of revision surgery. Two conditions warrant specific mention: BIA-ALCL, a rare lymphoma associated primarily with textured implants, which led to macro-textured implants being withdrawn from the Australian market in 2019, and breast implant illness, a cluster of systemic symptoms some patients report after implantation. Dr Khan discusses the risks relevant to your circumstances at consultation, and you are welcome to seek a second opinion.

Dual plane breast augmentation describes where the implant sits relative to the chest muscle. The upper part of the implant is positioned beneath the pectoralis major while the lower part sits behind breast tissue, so the implant occupies two planes rather than one. The aim is to combine the advantages of each: muscle coverage softens the upper edge of the implant and reduces visible rippling, while the lower portion allows the implant to fill the lower breast naturally. It is often chosen for patients with less breast tissue or mild breast descent. The alternatives are subglandular placement, entirely above the muscle, and subfascial placement, above the muscle but beneath its covering fascia. Dual plane and submuscular placements typically involve more early discomfort, because the muscle is lifted during surgery. Dr Khan recommends a placement based on your tissue thickness, chest wall shape and implant choice.

Breast implants add a fixed, chosen volume and can achieve a substantial size increase in a single procedure, while fat transfer to the breast uses liposuction to harvest your own fat, which is then purified and injected into the breast, with no implant and no device to replace later. The trade-off is scale and predictability: fat transfer generally achieves around half a cup to one cup size per session, requires sufficient donor fat elsewhere on the body, and a proportion of the transferred fat is reabsorbed over the first few months, so more than one session is sometimes needed. Hybrid augmentation combines both, using an implant for volume with fat grafting to soften the upper pole and edges, and is often considered for patients with thin tissue coverage. Dr Khan will advise which approach suits your anatomy and goals.

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