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Would you like to enhance the overall shape and appearance of your breasts?

Perhaps you've experienced pregnancy and breastfeeding, and would like to restore a firmer, more youthful look?

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a procedure in which the breasts are made larger with the use of silicone breast implants. Patients may choose to undergo this type of surgery for reconstructive purposes following a mastectomy for breast cancer, or for aesthetic or cosmetic reasons. In many cases, our patients simply want to feel more feminine in clothes and swimwear, or would like to balance breasts that are asymmetrical in terms of size and shape.

There are two kinds of implants available for breast augmentation: saline-filled and silicone gel. Dr Eddie Cheng typically uses silicone-gel filled breast implants  as they provide a more natural look and feel.

What happens during a breast augmentation consultation?  

Your initial consultation with Dr Eddie Cheng and our Patient Coordinators

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Before undergoing breast augmentation surgery, you will meet with Dr Cheng at least on two occasions to discuss your options and expectations. Dr Cheng is a specialist plastic surgeon and will draw on both reconstructive and cosmetic disciplines when formulating your treatment plan.

Prior to your consultation, you will be encouraged to email in your ideal or wish list breast photos as well as your current breast photos in order to plan and advise in advance of your consultation.  This will help Dr Cheng determine which surgical option is most suitable for you. During both your initial and preoperative consultation with Dr Cheng you will meet with one of our patient coordinators who will perform a 3D scan of your breasts.  Dr Cheng will then perform a thorough clinical evaluation including measurements of your breasts, breast tissue and chest wall.

It is a good idea to wear clothing that is easy to change in and out of as well as being form fitting such as a fitted shirt and pants. This will allow you to see your individual upper and lower body proportions when you trial different breast implant sizing. After Dr Cheng completes his clinical evaluation, he will select various breast implant sizers for you to trial based on your ideal breast images and your current anatomy to achieve your desired result. Often this is a good time for you to bring your friend or a trusted person into the consult room and have some fun while trying on different sizes to compare your proportions and look.

How is a breast augmentation procedure performed?

While there are several incision site options, Dr Cheng prefers to use an inframammary incision or an incision in the breast fold to access the breast implant pocket as this helps to reduce the interference with milk ducts and breast tissue, as well as reduce the risk of infection.

The procedure itself is performed under general anaesthetic and generally takes around 1-1.5hrs  hours to complete, although this will depend on your unique situation. Depending on the type of implant you have chosen, Dr Cheng will make an incision under your breasts and your implants will be placed above or below the chest muscle and your surgical incisions will be closed with several layers of closure.

How long will my recovery take?

Immediately after your surgery, you will be fitted with a support bra and your incisions will be covered with a tape dressing. You will need to wear a surgical recovery bra 24/7 as this will increase your comfort and help to support your breasts as they heal. You may experience some swelling after the procedure, but this should subside slowly over the first 4 months of recovery.

As with all surgery, each patient is different when it comes to recovery, but you should avoid heavy exercise for six weeks following the breast augmentation. Be sure to consult with Dr Cheng at your 6-week review before you resume any exercises that involve the arms and chest muscles. Based on your progress, he will advise you when you are able to resume to your normal exercise routine.

Why is your pre-op planning important?

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At AR Plastic Surgery, we offer a personalised and holistic service. We are here to listen to your questions and concerns and guide you towards the treatment that best suits your needs. While breast augmentations are one of our most common procedures, we understand that everyone's body is different. Dr Cheng will take time to consider your individual proportions and tailor your treatment to ensure that you can enjoy the best possible results.

To find out more about the breast augmentation procedure and to browse some of the most frequently asked questions about the surgery, click  here.

To arrange a consultation, please don't hesitate to get in touch.