How Can I Enlarge My Breasts?

06 Jun How Can I Enlarge My Breasts?

A Guide to Breast Enlargement Procedures

When it comes to increasing the size of the breasts, there are a few different options to think about. In this blog, Perth Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr. Guy Watts will walk you through the most common breast enlargement procedures, including how they work, what to expect, potential risks and costs.

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Breast Implant Surgery

The most well-known way to enlarge breasts is through breast implant surgery, also called breast augmentation. In this procedure, implants filled with either saline (sterile salt water) or silicone gel are placed under the breast tissue or chest muscle to increase breast size.

During your consultation, Dr. Watts will go over the different types of implants (saline vs silicone), incision placements, and implant positions (above or below the chest muscle). He will also help you choose the right implant size for your body frame and goals. Don’t be shy about asking questions – the consultation is your chance to get all the information you need to make your decision.

If you decide to move forward with breast implant surgery, Dr. Watts will give you specific instructions on how to prepare. This may include:

• Getting a blood test and possibly a mammogram
• Stopping smoking at least 3 months before surgery
• Avoiding certain medications that can increase bleeding risk
• Arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery and help you out for the first 24 hours

What happens during breast implant surgery?

• You’ll be under general anaesthesia, so you’ll be asleep during the procedure
• Dr. Watts will make an incision under the breast
• The implant is inserted through this opening and positioned behind the muscle
• The incisions are closed with stitches and the skin is bandaged
• The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours

After the surgery, expect your breasts to feel sore and swollen for a few weeks as they heal. You’ll need to limit physical activity and will need to wear a special supportive bra. Most people can go back to work after a week, but you’ll have to avoid strenuous exercise for longer.

Breast implants can increase your bust size by 1-2 cup sizes or more. The size depends on your goals and what’s possible based on your existing breast tissue. Results are long-lasting, but keep in mind that implants may need to be replaced after some time, this is typically after 10 years or more.

After surgery, it’s important to give yourself time to rest and recover. You’ll have some pain and discomfort for the first few days, which can be managed with prescription pain medication. Swelling and bruising is also common and can take several weeks to fully subside.

Dr. Watts recommends taking at least a week off work to recover. You’ll need to avoid heavy lifting, exercise and overhead reaching for several weeks. Be sure to attend all your follow-up appointments so Dr. Watts can monitor your healing and results.

It’s normal to feel tired and sore during the initial recovery period. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard. With proper rest and care, most people are back to your normal routine within 4-6 weeks, with final results visible by 12 months.

While breast implants can give you larger breasts, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Implants can alter size and shape, but they won’t completely change your underlying breast anatomy. Your results will also be influenced by factors like your chest width, current breast size, skin elasticity and implant size.

DOWNLOAD DR WATTS’ GUIDE TO BREAST AUGMENTATION

Guide To Breast Augmentation

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Finding a Qualified Plastic Surgeon for Breast Enlargement Procedures in Perth

If you decide to get breast augmentation, the next step is finding a qualified plastic surgeon. Don’t go to just anyone who says they can do the procedure. Choosing a skilled, experienced surgeon will help ensure the best results and minimise risks.

Look for a surgeon who:

• Is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
• Regularly performs breast enlargement procedures
• Has operating privileges at a well-regarded hospital or accredited surgical facility
• Takes the time to understand your goals, answer your questions and thoroughly explain the risks and benefits
• Makes you feel comfortable, listens to your concerns and doesn’t pressure you to make a decision

Paying for Breast Enlargement Surgery

In Australia, most people have to pay for cosmetic breast enlargement out-of-pocket, as it’s generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. The only exceptions are if you need reconstructive breast surgery following breast cancer, severe developmental abnormalities, or to correct pronounced breast asymmetry.

Costs can vary considerably depending on the specifics of your surgery and the surgeon you choose. In Australia, breast implants surgery typically start around $8,000 AUD and can go up to $15,000 AUD or more.

In addition to the surgeon’s fee, you’ll also have to factor in costs for things like:

• Anaesthesia fees
• Hospital or surgical facility fees
• Post-surgery garments
• Prescription medications for pain relief and preventing infection
• Follow-up consultations with the surgeon

It’s important to prioritise safety and quality over cost when it comes to surgery. Be cautious about suspiciously low-priced procedures, as this may indicate a surgeon who is cutting corners or not properly qualified. Don’t risk your health and results by choosing an underqualified surgeon just to save money.

Making Your Decision

Before deciding to undergo surgery, take the time to reflect on your motivations. Ask yourself:

• Why do I want to change my breasts?
• What are my expectations for the results?
• Am I doing this for myself or to please others?
• Have I considered the risks and potential complications?
• Can I afford the cost and time off for recovery?

It’s important to have realistic expectations about what breast enlargement surgery can achieve. While it can alter your breast size and shape, it won’t transform your whole appearance.

You’ll also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. It’s a good idea to prepare your recovery area at home with plenty of pillows, comfortable clothing, healthy snacks, and entertainment to keep you occupied during your initial rest period.

Keep in mind that breast enlargement surgery is not a decision to be made lightly. It’s a significant procedure with potential risks and a substantial recovery period. Make sure you have all the information you need and feel fully confident in your choice before proceeding.

FAQs about Breast Enlargement Procedures

What’s the difference between round and teardrop shaped implants?

• Round implants provide a fuller, more pronounced upper pole of the breast, while teardrop (anatomical) implants mimic the natural slope of the breast with more volume at the bottom. Teardrop implants may rotate and cause an unusual breast shape, while round implants look the same from any angle. Dr. Watts can help you choose the best shape for you.

Can I breastfeed after breast enlargement surgery?

• Some women can still breastfeed after breast implant surgery, especially if the incision is not around the areola. However, some may experience reduced milk production. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, discuss this with Dr. Watts so he can tailor the procedure to best preserve milk ducts and nerves.

Will I lose sensation in my nipples after breast enlargement?

• Some temporary numbness or change in nipple sensation is common after breast enlargement surgery. This usually improves as the nerves heal over several months. In rare cases, numbness may persist.

How long do breast implants last? Will I need to replace them?

• Breast implants are long-lasting, but not lifetime devices. On average, they last 10-20 years before needing replacement due to wear and tear or complications like rupture or capsular contracture. Some women may need revision surgery sooner to address any issues or change size preferences. Dr. Watts can provide more specific guidance based on your implant type and individual factors.

What kind of scarring can I expect after breast enlargement surgery?

• Scarring depends on the type of procedure and incision location. Implant surgery involves incisions under the breast fold. Scars can fade and flatten over 12-18 months. Using scar treatments and following Dr. Watts’s post-op care instructions can help scars heal optimally.

Further Reading about Breast Enlargement Procedures with Dr. Guy Watts

• Read more about What Are the Most Natural Looking Breast Implants?
• Read more about Returning To Exercise After Breast Augmentation Surgery
• Read more about What Is Upper Pole Fullness?
• Read more about Recovery after Breast Lift
• Read more about How to Sleep Better After Cosmetic Breast Surgery

Medical References about Breast Enlargement Procedures

• Evolving Trends in Cosmetic Breast Augmentation: New Data
• Breast Enlargement – an overview – ScienceDirect Topics
• Breast Augmentation | Cosmetic Surgery – Stanford Medicine
• Breast augmentation surgery – MedlinePlus
• What you need to know about breast augmentation – Medical News Today