We understand that every woman has a unique body shape. Crafting the right proportions for your figure is key.
We are here to listen and gently guide you to ensure you make the right decision. Everyone is different so we ensure that we offer all our patients personalised, holistic services without the shortcuts.
Specialist plastic surgeons, draw from extensive training in both reconstructive and cosmetic disciplines. Always considering your overall proportions while aiming to deliver a natural-looking result in a safe and supportive environment.
Breast Augmentation – This procedure increases the size and proportions of a woman’s breasts.
Breast Reconstruction – This procedure is performed to restore a woman’s breast shape after a mastectomy or injury that resulted in either partial or total loss of the breast(s), or to correct a birth defect.
Replacement or Revision – This procedure is performed as replacement or revision surgery for patients with previous augmentation or reconstruction with silicone gel-filled or saline-filled implants.
Accept your breasts as they are
Wear a padded bra or external prostheses
In addition to risk related to any type of surgical procedures, there are potential complications specific to breast implant surgery and breast implants, some of these complications are listed below. If you experience any symptoms related to your breast implants, you should consult with our surgeon as soon as possible.
Rupture. Breast Implants are not lifetime devices. Rupture (a hole or break in the shell) can occur at any time after implantation, but it is more likely to occur the longer the implant is insitu. Your implants could rupture without noticing any change in your breasts. In some of these instances even your doctor might not be able to tell that a rupture has occurred. The best way to diagnose a rupture is with an Ultrasound Scan or MRI examination.
Capsular Contracture. The scar tissue (capsule) that normally forms around the implant may tighten over time and compress the implant, making it feel firm and leading to what is called capsular contracture. Capsular contracture may be more common following infection, haematoma, and seroma, and the chance of it happening may increase over time. Capsular contracture occurs more commonly in revision-breast augmentation than in primary breast augmentation.
Because you may have your initial implants replaced, you should be aware that your risk of capsular contracture increases with revision-reconstruction. Capsular contracture is a risk factor for implant rupture, and it is one of the most common reasons for reoperation.
Pain. Pain of varying intensity and duration may occur and persist following breast implant surgery. Areas where you may experience pain include the breast, chest wall and axilla. In addition, pain may be associated with nerve entrapment or interference with muscle motion. You should tell your surgeon about any severe pain.
Changes in Nipple and Breast Sensation. Feeling in the nipple and breast can increase or decrease following breast implantation.
Delayed Wound Healing. In some cases, the incision site fails to heal normally. Infection, radiation, chemotherapy, smoking, diabetes, taking steroids, anti-coagulants, and excessive heat or cold therapy can cause necrosis and delayed wound healing.
Dissatisfaction with Cosmetic Results. Dissatisfying results such as wrinkling,
asymmetry, implant displacement (shifting), incorrect size, unanticipated shape, implant palpability, scar deformity, hypertrophic (irregular, raised) scarring, and/or sloshing (with implants containing saline) may occur. Careful surgical planning and technique can minimize but not always prevent such results.
Inflammation see pain and infection.
Infection. Infection is a possible consequence of any kind of surgery. Signs that you have an infection include: skin redness or rash, tenderness or pain, fluid accumulation in or around the breast(s), and fever.
Active Infection. If you have active infections anywhere in your body you should consult your surgeon before breast implantation.
Haematoma/Seroma. Haematoma is a collection of blood within the space around the implant and seroma is a build up of fluid around the implant.
Impact to Breastfeeding - Some women with breast implants have reported difficulty breastfeeding.
Extrusion of the implant/Interruption of Wound Healing - Unstable or compromised tissue covering and/or interruption of wound healing may result in extrusion, which is when the breast implant comes through the skin. Unstable or compromised tissue covering and/or interruption of wound healing may result in extrusion, which is when the breast implant comes through the
skin.
Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) – Based on information reported to global regulatory agencies and found in medical literature, an association has been identified between breast implants and the development of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cancer of the immune system). If you have breast implants, you have a very small, but increased risk of developing Breast Implant Associated ALCL (BIA-ALCL). In most cases, BIA-ALCL is found in the scar tissue (capsule) and fluid near the implant, with documented potential for local, regional, and distant spread of the cancer throughout the body. In the cases that have spread beyond the scar tissue and fluid near the implant, rare cases of death have been reported. Most patients were diagnosed with BIA-ALCL when they sought medical treatment for implant-related symptoms such as swelling, pain, lumps or asymmetry that developed after their initial surgical site were fully healed. In the cases known to date, BIA-ALCL was diagnosed years after the breast implant was placed.
BIA-ALCL has been reported globally in patients with an implant history that includes breast implants with various surface properties, styles, and shapes. Most of the cases in the literature reports describe a history of using textured implants. Reports in the literature show that high-surface-area textured breast implants are associated with an increased risk of developing BIA-ALCL as compared to low-surface-area textured implants. Several journal articles explore the risk factors for BIA-ALCL, including the varied methods used to create the surface texture of the implant and the role of biofilm in causing disease, among others.
Signs to be aware of for BIA ALCL:
- swelling or pain around your breast implants, be sure to talk to your surgeon
- your health care provider should consider the possibility of BIA-ALCL - late changes in the way your breast looks or feels – including swelling or pain around the implant.
Your surgeon may send you for tests that involve testing samples of fluid and tissue samples around your breast implant. If a diagnosis is confirmed, the surgeon will develop an individualised treatment plan for you.
Necrosis (formation of dead tissue around the implant). This may prevent wound healing and require surgical correction and/or implant removal.
Connective Tissue Disease (CTD), Signs, and Symptoms - Concern over the association of breast implants to the development of autoimmune or connective tissue diseases, such as lupus, scleroderma, or rheumatoid arthritis, was raised because of cases reported in the literature in small numbers of women with implants. A review of several large epidemiological studies of women with and without implants indicates that these diseases are no more common in women with implants than those without implants.
Wrinkling of the implant/Dissatisfaction with Cosmetic Results/Asymmetry
Calcium Deposits in the Tissue Around the Implants
Deposits of calcium can be seen on mammograms and can be mistaken for possible cancer, resulting in additional surgery to biopsy and/or removal of the implants to distinguish them
from cancer.
Breast Tissue Atrophy/Chest Wall Deformity- The pressure of the breast implants may cause the breast tissue to thin and shrink. This can occur while implants are still in place or
following implant removal without replacement.
Additional Surgeries - You should understand there is a high chance that you will need to have additional surgery at some point to replace or remove the implant. Also, problems such as rupture, capsular contracture, infection, shifting, and calcium deposits can require removal of the implants. Many women decide to have the implants replaced, but some women do not. If you choose not to, you may have cosmetically unacceptable dimpling and/or puckering of the breast following removal of the implant.
Autoimmune Diseases such as lupus and scleroderma. If you have these conditions, you should consult your physician before breast implantation.
Blood coagulation diseases. If you have conditions that interfere with wound healing and blood clotting, you should consult your physician before breast implantation.
Tissue characteristics. If you have tissue characteristics, which are clinically incompatible with breast implantation (e.g. tissue damage resulting from radiation, inadequate tissue, or compromised vascularity, you should consult your physician before breast implantation.
Considerations for Mammography
In consultation with your surgeon you may consider establishing a baseline mammogram reference by obtaining mammograms pre-operation and another one six months to one year after implantation. The implant may interfere with finding breast cancer during mammography and also may make it difficult to perform mammography. Therefore, it is essential that you tell your radiographer that you have an implant before the procedure. They can use special techniques to minimize the possibility of rupture and to get the best possible views of the breast tissue. Because the breast is squeezed during mammography, it is possible for an implant to rupture during the procedure. More x-ray views are necessary with these special techniques; therefore, women with breast implants will receive more radiation. However, the benefit of the mammogram in finding cancer outweighs the risk of the additional x-rays.
Magnetic Fields/MRI Compatibility
You should discuss impact to MRI testing with your physician prior to breast implantation. MRI scans may be used to determine if your implant has ruptured. MRIs are not suitable for patients that have
metal devices in their bodies. If you have a metal device implanted, please advise your surgeon.
Life expectancy
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. However, the life expectancy of a silicone breast implant cannot be precisely estimated, as there are many factors beyond the manufacturer’s and surgeon's control that can affect a breast implant’s longevity. A breast implant’s life expectancy varies from patient to patient depending on many factors that affect the durability and efficiency of breast implants,including your lifestyle, your body’s response to the implanted breast implants, and the expertise of your surgeon. Average life expectancy of breast implants in the market has been indicated as 10 years, but as long as the breast implants are not ruptured or subject to any complication, there is no need to remove or replace them.
How often should I check on my breast implants?
It is suggested that you should check the integrity of your breast implants every 2 years by ultrasound scan and/or MRI.
Dr Cheng recommends a minimum of 3 months, but somewhere between 3 and 6 months is ideal for a couple of reasons. Firstly we need to make sure the breast size is stable so that we can be sure to select the appropriate size breast implant for your preferred look. Secondly there can be an increased chance of dormant bacteria within the milk ducts which may increase the risk of infection if surgery is performed when the breasts are still productive of milk.
Aim to be at your ideal weight prior to surgery as significant changes after breast implant surgery can change the overall result.
Bra padding and prosthetics may be an option for people who do not wish to have breast augmentation surgery.
Dr Cheng prefers women to wait 4-6 weeks before wearing underwire bras after breast implant surgery.
Breast implants don’t last a lifetime, however, it varies form person to person. Implants will need to be replaced at some stage, however, the reasons for replacement varies and may include complications such as capsular contracture, gel rupture or more often than not a change in size.
You must be in good health to be considered for any kind of cosmetic surgery. If you have a heart condition, lung condition, or a neurological disorder, you may not be a suitable candidate.
The best candidates for breast augmentation are:
at their ideal weight with a body mass index of 30 or less
A non-smoker or plan to cease smoking at least 6 weeks prior to surgery
If you smoke, you’ll need to give up smoking for at least six weeks before and after surgery due to the effect on wound healing.
The cost of an initial consultation with Dr Cheng is $300. Subsequent consults are complimentary in the lead up to your surgery.
As a general guide, breast augmentation with Dr Cheng, a board certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon starts from $12,784.
When comparing costs it is important to do your homework and make sure your surgeon has the highest qualifications to keep you safe.
This fee includes:
Your Specialist Plastic Surgeon’s Fee (Dr Eddie Cheng MBBS FRACS (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Cheng’s Specialist Anaesthetist
Your breast implants Implants (Mentor Smooth or Textured Round Implants), Motiva Breast Implants and Teardrop shaped/ anatomical breast implants are additional.
Your Day surgery/hospital fees at Westside Private Hospital (Dr Cheng only operates in fully licensed facilities)
This fee is also inclusive of your post op recovery pack including:
- Recovery bra
- Scar gel to care for your incision lines
- Access to Dr Cheng’s personal mobile phone to answer any questions you may have during your recovery as -
Dr Cheng understands that this can be an anxious time.
- All scheduled review appointments with Dr Cheng and his Aesthetic Nurse for the first 12 months following your surgery as we believe you should have direct access to your surgeon at all times during your recovery and aftercare.
In most cases, breast augmentation is considered a cosmetic procedure and not a medically necessary treatment. For this reason, augmentation is typically not covered by insurance unless it’s performed as part of reconstruction after breast cancer or due to a developmental deformity such as significant breast asymmetry.
When considering your surgeon - remember to do your homework. Be confident you are in the care of a highly trained specialist plastic surgeon. Look for the highest standard of qualification by checking if your surgeon is:
A Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons specialising in Plastic Surgery
A member of the Aust society of plastic surgeons
A member of thes australian society of aesthetic plastic surgeons
As with any elective procedure, the most important factor in choosing a plastic surgeon is experience and training or qualifications. In Australia any doctor—not just plastic surgeons—can legally perform breast augmentations. Cosmetic Surgeons are not qualified plastic surgeons. Specialist Plastic Surgeons in Australia will have the following qualifications: MBBS FRACS (Plastic Surgery). FRACS stands for Fellow of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, specialising in Plastic Surgery. It’s so important for you to DO YOUR HOMEWORK and look for a certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
So step 1: Check qualifications, be sure your surgeon is a specialist plastic surgeon
Step 2. Ask where your surgeon operates, make sure your hospital is an accredited, licensed facility as this ensures appropriate sterile processing procedures and other important safety concerns.
3. Look at before-and-after photos in clinic or online and ask family and friends for recommendations
4. Make sure you have direct access to your surgeon during your recovery period. This is an important factor in making your decision as you may need to ask your surgeon questions. Dr Cheng strongly believes that recovery is just as important as the surgery itself and great aftercare is vital to the outcome of your surgery. Your can be reassured as a patient of Dr Cheng’s you will direct access to his personal mobile for urgent medical concerns 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
In preparation for your initial consultation we recommend that you:
Have a recent (less than 12 months old) mammogram and breast ultrasound before your appointment with Dr Cheng if you are 40 years or older or have a significant family history of breast cancer.
Consider the kind of aesthetic outcome you would like to achieve and bring photographic references that you have saved on your phone and or email in advance of your appointment, for you to discuss with Dr Cheng.
We also recommend that you wear form-fitting clothing, such as a fitted t-shirt and fitted pants, to your initial consultation. This is very helpful when you are trying on implants for size, as you can clearly see the overall proportions of your figure in relation to your trial breast implant sizers.
Our Patient coordinator will ask that you email your own breast photos to allow for planning and advice prior to your appointment.
Depending on your photos you may also be asked to obtain a referral if there is a chance that you may need to consider a breast lift procedure in addition to breast augmentation.
For some people Dr Cheng may recommend a breast lift or mastopexy procedure in addition to a breast augmentation. Typically, women who have had children and breast fed in the past may need to have a breast lift either at the same time as your breast augmentation or as a second procedure performed some time after the breast augmentation.
As a guide, take a good look at your breasts in front of a mirror without a bra on. Pay close attention to the where your breast and nipple position sits in relation to the natural breast fold. If the nipple and areolar and breast tissue is sagging below the natural fold or crease, it is likely that you may need to consider a breast lift to give your breasts a more youthful, perkier shape. Dr Cheng can advise you at the time of your consultation, however if you’re uncertain we would suggest talking to your GP about a referral just in case.
Breast implants come in saline and silicone varieties, as well as many sizes, shapes, and textures. Dr Cheng primarily uses silicone gel breast implants, which contain medical grade silicone and feel more like natural breast tissue.
Implants can be placed above or below the pectoral muscle, through a number of incision locations. Dr Cheng’s preference is a dual plane or subpectoral (under the muscle) breast implant placement due to the more natural look that it provides when the breast tissue and muscle drapes over the breast implant. (Refer to Breast implant glossary)
Capsular contracture: A tightening of the tissue or capsule that normally forms around the implant. It is more common following infection, haematoma, and seroma. It is also more common with subglandular breast implant placement. The symptoms can range from firmness and mild discomfort, to pain, distortion of the breasts, palpability of the implant, and/or displacement of the implant.
Saline implants will deflate immediately and you will subsequently notice a change in breast size immediately thereafter. The saline is then absorbed by your body.
A ruptured silicone implant on the other hand, may not be evident immediately and you will need to have an ultrasound or mammogram to confirm rupture. If a rupture is confirmed you will need to have the implant surgically removed and replaced.
This is not common but it can occur. A smaller size implant may reduce this risk.
Nipple sensation can be altered after implant surgery in a small number of patients. Although uncommon, surgery can result in increased or decreased sensation, which can be a temporary or permanent change.
The simple answer is yes. Dr Cheng uses an infra-mammary incision or an incision in the breast fold to access the breast implant pocket instead of a peri-areolar incision. This reduces the chance of interfering with milk ducts and breast tissue. Dr Cheng will discuss this in more detail during your consultation.
This will vary, however, most women return to exercise acitivites within 4 to 6 weeks of surgery. Prior to this make sure you consult with Dr Cheng before re-commencing more strenuous activities involving arms and chest muscles.
It is still possible to have a mammogram, however, you will need to inform the radiographer that you have breast implants.
AR Plastic Surgery use Crisalix, a revolutionary 4D imaging technology that allows patients to answer the common question “how will I look after the procedure?”. This technology will show both the patient and the surgeon realistic, colour images of their bodies post-procedure.
The purpose of Crisalix is to allow patients to see, in real time, the results of surgery, before undergoing a specific surgical procedure. It simulates the appearance of aesthetic procedures through the use of a unique 3D web-based solution, simply by uploading an image of the desired surgical area. Crisalix is the leading virtual reality 4D & 3D imaging solution chosen by plastic surgeons across Australia, and around the world.
The 3D images are included in the price of AR Plastic Surgery’s consultation, which may vary according to your chosen surgical procedure. Patients will be given the option to utilise Crisalix for face, body and breast procedures, where they will be able to simulate the appearance of each area according to their surgical preferences. During your consultation with Dr Cheng, he will discuss the surgical options that are available, before a decision to progress with treatment is made.
During the initial consultation, patients will also be able to view the 3D images through a VR Headset while in the practice. Patients will also be able to access the images on a computer or mobile device while at home after the initial consultation.
Patients will receive up to three different outcomes after their consultation with Dr Cheng. If you are not pleased with your outcomes, we will continue to work with you until you reach your desired results.
Enquiries
office@arplasticsurgery.com.au
Address
Wesley Medical Centre,
Suite 50 Level 4/40 Chasely St,
Auchenflower QLD 4066
Australia
Parking
Access to the Wesley Hospital carpark is via Lang Parade
Phone (07) 3870 3960
Opening Hours 8:30am - 5pm