How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to increase and enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breast. There are a large number of options with breast augmentation including implant choice and surgical techniques. Dr Doyle will discuss these with you depending on the result you are looking to achieve. It typically takes under 1 hour. The location of the incisions depends on your anatomy, goals, and the type of implant you choose. At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery we make every effort to ensure that your incisions are as small as possible.
How is breast augmentation done?
During breast augmentation, space (or pocket) is created under the breast. The implant is then placed behind or in front of the chest muscle, depending on the look you want to achieve. Most patients receive dissolvable stitches and the surgery is usually done as a day surgery procedure.
The following steps outline the stages of the procedure itself:
Step 1 – Anaesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anaesthesia. Dr Mark Doyle will recommend the best choice for you.
Step 2 – The incision
Incisions are made in inconspicuous areas to minimise visible scarring. Dr Doyle will discuss with you which incision options are appropriate for your desired outcome. Incisions vary based on the type of breast implant, a degree of enlargement desired and your particular anatomy.
Step 3 – Inserting and placing the breast implant
After the incision is made, a breast implant is inserted into a pocket either:
Under the pectoral muscle (a submuscular placement)
Directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (a submammary/ subglandular placement)
The method for inserting and positioning breast implants depends on the type of implant, a degree of enlargement desired, your body type, and it will, of course, be finalised with Dr Doyle prior to your surgery.
Step 4 – Closing the incisions
Incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue. Over time the incision lines will fade. The quality of scar depends on many things, including your genetics, exposure of your body to nicotine and infection.
Step 5 – Enjoy the results
The results of breast augmentation are immediately visible. Swelling and bruising will fade after a few weeks following your surgery.
It can be worth getting breast implants if:
-you are healthy
-have realistic expectations of what breast implants can do for you
-you are getting them because you want them
