Questions And Answers

Q: What is a breast implant?

A: A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel or saline solution. They are specifically designed to enhance the size and shape of the female breast.

Several types of implants have been available over the years and the main three used today are:

Conventional silicone gel
Anatomically shaped
Saline filled


Q: What anaesthesia will be used?

A: Breast Enlargement is normally preformed with a general anaesthetic but local anaesthesia and sedation (twilight) may also be used. This will be discussed at your consultation and confirmed by the surgeon.


Q: What happens during surgery?

A: To minimize scarring an incision can be made in either:

Each of these approaches has its advantages and disadvantages. At the free consultation, our surgeon will evaluate and discuss the different alternatives.

Once the incision has been made, a pocket is then created either directly behind the breast gland or beneath the chest wall muscle (Pectorial muscle). The implant is inserted into the specially created pocket, and centered beneath your nipples. The incision is then closed using stitches and the appropriate dressings applied. The surgery time is approximately 1 hour.


Q: What can be expected after the surgery?

A: After your surgery, your surgeon and clinical staff will provide you with advice regarding the following:

Level of activity
Wound care
Bra choice and breast support
Removal of stitches
Follow-up visits.

You are most likely to feel tired and sore for a few days. For about two weeks you could experience bruising and a burning sensation in your nipples, but this will subside. Swelling in the breasts will only disappear after about three to five weeks. Pain medication is prescribed to alleviate any tenderness, pain or discomfort. Occasionally, patients will experience an increase in sensitivity to the area for a few months.

For about six weeks after the surgery scars will be firm and pink. After several months the scars begin to fade, but will never disappear completely.

Q: How long should I take off work?

A: You would need to take approximately one or two weeks off work but possibly more if your job involves physical work.