Breast Augmentation

Breast enhancement with the use of silicone gel implants dates back to the 1960's.  Implants have improved greatly from the early ones with a thick outer envelope, to the cohesive gel implants used today.  Other developments in implant design include a textured outer surface which greatly reduces the risk of capsular contracture (hard breast) occurring later.

Implants are available in anatomical (tear drop) shape, round and asymmetric (right and left) shapes and may contain saline (salt water) only, or part silicone and part saline.  Some saline implants are even adjustable and can be emptied during breast feeding.

Implants are now inserted through a small (4-5 centimetre) incision in the armpit, fold under the breast, around the nipple or through the umbilicus.  They can be placed in pockets behind the pectoralis muscle, behind the fascia (fibrous coat) of the muscle or behind the breast.

There are a range of sizes available.  At Parkside Cosmetic Surgery we have a private room where patients can try different sizes in their bra before deciding.

Breast implant surgery is performed at Parkside as a day procedure under local anaesthetic.  A specialist anaesthetist administers intravenous sedation.  The technique used has less pain afterwards and quicker recovery.

We recommend a week leave from work after surgery, although some patients have returned to work in as little as three days.

For further information the Therapeutic Goods Administration  website has a downloadable Breast Implant Information Booklet which has been prepared to provide guidance for persons considering the use of breast implants.