Breast Augmentation (Breast Implant Surgery) focuses on increasing breast size and/or changing breast shape using breast implants. People consider this procedure for a range of personal reasons, including changes after pregnancy, weight fluctuation or simply wanting to alter the appearance of their breasts. For anyone exploring Breast Augmentation, understanding the process, recovery, suitability, risks and potential costs is an important part of making an informed decision.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Gary Kode consults in both Melbourne and Launceston, with all surgical procedures performed in accredited hospitals in Melbourne. To help individuals considering Breast Augmentation, he has compiled a detailed list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). This information provides an overview of key considerations and can assist patients in determining whether the procedure may be suitable for their circumstances.
A Breast Augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast size or change breast shape using breast implants. It can also be performed to address asymmetry, changes that occur after weight fluctuations or pregnancy, or to help achieve a fuller breast appearance. The procedure is individualised, with implant type, placement and incision location determined according to a patient’s anatomy and goals.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation uses a patient’s own fat, typically harvested from areas such as the abdomen, thighs or hips to increase breast volume.
The fat is extracted, processed/filtered and then placed into the breasts to increase fullness. Unlike implant-based Augmentation, this approach does not use medical devices and generally produces a less significant increase than implants.
It may also be considered for increasing breast symmetry or altering breast shape.
People explore Breast Augmentation for a range of reasons, including:
Every patient’s reasons are individual. A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon like Dr Gary Kode helps clarify whether the procedure aligns with their expectations.
Suitable candidates are typically individuals who:
A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is required to determine suitability, as anatomy, lifestyle and personal goals all influence whether Breast Augmentation is appropriate.
Yes, in some situations a Breast Augmentation can be performed with other surgeries, for example a Breast Lift with implants, (known as a Breast Augmentation Mastopexy).
Some patients may also choose to undergo a Breast Augmentation with body procedures ( like an Abdominoplasty) however this is dependent on several factors and suitability will be determined by your surgeon during a consultation.
Yes. Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation is an alternative to breast implants. The procedure involves taking fat from one area of the body (using liposuction) and placing it into the breasts.
This technique generally provides a less significant change and is limited by how much fat is available, how much of that fat survives and how well the transferred fat settles over time. It is not suitable for individuals seeking a significant increase in breast size.
A consultation is necessary to assess whether there is enough donor fat and whether this method is appropriate for you.
Yes. Breast implants vary in:
Each option has different considerations related to feel, position and the type of change produced. Dr Gary Kode will recommend implant options that he believes are suitable for your anatomy and preferences during consultation.
There is no universally “right” size. Choosing an implant involves assessing your:
During consultation, measurements, 3D imaging and implant sizers may be used to help identify an option that aligns with your proportions and surgical plan.
The most used implant sizes often fall between 275cc and 350cc, but this can vary significantly. The “most common” size is not necessarily the most suitable choice. Patient safety, anatomical balance and individual preferences guide the selection rather than trends or averages.
Your implant options may include variations in:
Dr Kode will discuss the pros and cons of each option, along with how different choices interact with your existing breast tissue, lifestyle and long-term considerations.
There are several companies that manufacture implants, with each offering different features such as shell texture, cohesiveness of the silicone gel and available shapes. Dr Gary Kode generally uses Motiva implants due to their design features, silicone gel technology and the range of options available to suit different anatomical needs.
However, the choice of implant brand is not one-size-fits-all. While Motiva is frequently recommended, Dr Kode will use other implant brands when they are more suitable. Suitability depends on a patient’s anatomy, surgical requirements and preferences.
Breast Augmentation surgery involves placing implants or transferring fat to increase breast volume and change the breast shape. The specific steps vary depending on anatomy, implant selection and surgical technique.
In most cases involving implants, an incision is made in a location discussed during consultation (Incisions are strategically planned and vary depending on the amount of lift, the type of implant, and the patient’s anatomy. Incision options include: Periareolar, Lollipop or Anchor). A pocket is then made either above or beneath the chest muscle and the implant is positioned within this pocket. The incisions are then closed with sutures.
For Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation, liposuction is used to remove fat from selected areas of the body. The fat is processed and then placed into the breast to increase in volume.
Dr Kode will explain the most suitable technique for your anatomy and goals during your consultation.
Dr Kode performs Breast Augmentation surgery under general anaesthesia and typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the specifics of the procedure. The procedure is performed in fully accredited Melbourne hospitals such as Vermont, Epworth Eastern or Masada Private Hospital known for their high safety standards and sterile conditions.
Once the incisions are made, breast implants can be positioned in one of two main locations:
The placement chosen depends on several factors, including breast tissue thickness, existing breast shape, implant type and the outcome the patient is seeking. Dr Kode will assess these factors and recommend the most appropriate placement during consultation.
The duration of Breast Augmentation surgery varies depending on implant type, incision location and surgical technique. In most cases, the procedure takes between one to two hours.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation may take longer due to the additional steps involved in fat harvesting and preparation.
Yes. Breast Augmentation involves surgical incisions, which means scars are an expected part of the procedure. The location and appearance of these scars depend on the incision type used, your individual healing characteristics and how your body forms scar tissue. Scars generally settle and fade over time, though they will not disappear completely.
Scar care including; avoiding sun exposure, using recommended silicone products and following all postoperative instructions can help support the healing process.
Individual pain tolerance varies from person to person. Most patients feel discomfort, swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness in the early stages. These symptoms are usually most noticeable during the first few days and gradually ease as healing progresses.
During the first week, it is common to experience tenderness around the incision sites and the areas where the implants have been placed. This can be managed with prescribed medication and over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by Dr Kode. Ice packs may also assist in reducing swelling and providing additional comfort, particularly within the first 48 hours.
A post-surgical support garment or surgical bra will need to be worn throughout recovery. This garment provides support, helps limit swelling, protects the incisions and assists with maintaining breast shape while tissues settle.
Pain and discomfort vary greatly between individuals, so it is difficult to predict how each person will feel after surgery. Most patients describe the early stages of recovery as involving tightness, pressure or sensitivity across the chest rather than sharp pain. This sensation is often related to the placement of the implants and the swelling that occurs after surgery.
Discomfort is typically manageable, particularly when patients follow post-operative instructions and take medication as recommended by their surgeon. Your surgeon will provide guidance on activity levels, medications and supportive garments to help make recovery as comfortable as possible.
Most patients can expect to gradually return to physical activity over several weeks, but the exact timeline varies based on individual healing, the specifics of the surgery, and how the body responds during recovery.
As a general guide:
Dr Gary Kode urges patients to take a gradual, body-guided approach when returning to exercise. While broad timelines offer structure, he believes patients are often the most suitable judges of what feels comfortable and appropriate as they heal.
He advises:
If you are unsure about a particular exercise or experience unusual symptoms during activity, you should check in with Dr Kode or his team before continuing.
Swelling is an expected part of recovery after Breast Augmentation surgery. It is usually most noticeable in the first one to two weeks, gradually settling as the body heals. Many patients find that the majority of swelling reduces within six to eight weeks, although mild swelling can continue for several months.
Dr Gary Kode will monitor healing during follow-up appointments and provide guidance based on individual progress.
Patients are generally advised to avoid:
It’s important to follow your post-operative instructions and listen to your body to optimise your results.
Most patients can drive once they are off prescription pain medication, have full mobility of the arms and are able to fully control the vehicle. This timeline will vary between individuals.
Breast Augmentation is considered a long-term procedure. Implants can remain in place for many years, however, they will likely need to be removed or replaced due to ageing changes, implant-related concerns or preferences that arise over time.
A review with your surgeon every few years is generally recommended to monitor breast health and implant condition.
Breast Augmentation alone does not lift the breasts. While implants can increase size and fullness, they do not alter excess skin/laxity.
If breast ptosis (sagging) is present, a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) may be recommended in addition to, or instead of implants. Dr Kode can assess breast position during consultation and advise on the most appropriate approach.
Breast implants are durable medical devices but they are not designed to last forever. They do not have an exact “expiry date,” but they should be monitored over time in case of changes such as capsular contracture, rupture, or shifting.
Some people retain their implants for two decades or longer without issues, while others may require revision earlier. Individual factors, anatomy and lifestyle all contribute to how long implants remain suitable.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, they will eventually require removal or replacement. There is no exact lifespan, as longevity varies depending on the implant type, individual healing, lifestyle factors, and how the body responds over time.
On average, many implants remain stable for 10–15 years and some may last longer without issues. However, others may need revision sooner if concerns such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, changes in shape, or discomfort occur.
Dr Kode has a collection of Before and After images of patients who have undergone various breast procedures with him, including Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift (Mastopexy) and Breast Augmentation Mastopexy. These photographs are intended for educational purposes only. They should not be used to assume that your outcome will be the same as another patient’s. Instead, they serve as a general guide to help illustrate the types of changes that may be possible, depending on individual anatomy and surgical circumstances.
The cost of the implants themselves varies depending on several factors, including the brand, size, shape and type of implant selected. These implant costs form one component of the total surgical fee and are added to the overall cost of Breast Augmentation surgery.
During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will discuss the implant options suitable for your anatomy and goals and provide a personalised surgical quote outlining all associated fees.
The cost of Breast Augmentation surgery varies between individuals because the total cost depends on several factors, including the type of implant selected, the complexity of the procedure, anaesthesia fees, hospital charges, and postoperative care requirements.
Surgeon fees can also differ based on experience, operative time and the specific techniques required to achieve the desired result. Tailored quotes are provided after consultation once the specifics of the surgery are discussed.
When performed for cosmetic reasons (to increase breast size or change breast shape) a Breast Augmentation is not covered by Medicare.
In limited situations, Medicare may offer a rebate if the procedure is performed for medical reasons under an eligible item number. This typically applies to cases such as:
To qualify, strict Medicare criteria must be met, and photographic and written documentation is usually required. Your surgeon will assess whether you meet the necessary requirements during your consultation.
Even when an item number applies, patients should expect out-of-pocket costs, as Medicare rebates cover only a portion of the total fees.
If the procedure meets Medicare criteria and has an eligible item number, private health insurance may pay for some hospital-related expenses. Coverage varies widely between funds, so patients should confirm directly with their insurer.
Surgery costs differ between individuals because each procedure is tailored to the patient’s anatomy, goals and needs. Factors that influence the final cost, include:
Because every patient’s needs are unique, costs are provided after a consultation with Dr Kode, once your surgical plan has been assessed.
Yes. Like any surgical procedure, Breast Augmentation carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, changes in sensation, implant-related issues and the need for additional surgery in the future.
It’s important to discuss potential risks in detail during your consultation so you have a clear understanding of the procedure and your individual risk profile.
For more information visit our Risks of Cosmetic Surgery and Complications page
Capsular contracture is a potential complication that can occur after breast implant surgery. When this happens, it may place pressure on the implant and lead to changes in the way the breast feels or looks.
If capsular contracture develops, treatment options vary depending on severity and can include surgical intervention. This is something Dr Gary Kode discusses in detail with patients during consultation.
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a range of symptoms some individuals report after breast implant surgery, including fatigue, joint pain, and cognitive issues. Its cause is not fully understood and symptoms vary between patients.
Choosing a qualified surgeon is an important part of preparing for Breast Augmentation surgery. In Australia, Breast Augmentation procedures must be performed by a suitably trained and accredited medical practitioner. There are several steps patients can take to help make sure they are selecting an appropriately qualified professional. Key considerations when researching a Breast Augmentation surgeon include:
Disclaimer
This information is general only and does not replace a consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. Surgical outcomes, risks and recovery experiences vary. All surgery carries risks, and patients should seek personalised medical advice. Decisions regarding surgery should only be made after a full consultation, assessment and discussion with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon.