Breast Augmentation | Breast implants

Breast Augmentation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Stanley Loo

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases breast volume using breast implants.

Women may consider breast augmentation for a variety of reasons, including wanting to increase breast size, address differences in breast size, change breast proportions, or restore volume following pregnancy or weight changes.

Breast augmentation can also form part of breast reconstruction in selected circumstances.

Mr Stanley Loo, BHB, MBChB, FRACS (Plast) provides consultations for breast augmentation in Auckland.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, involves placing an implant within the breast to increase its volume.

There are different types and sizes of breast implants and different ways of positioning an implant. The most appropriate option depends on your existing breast tissue, anatomy, desired outcome and other clinical factors.

The current practice information describes placement either directly beneath the breast tissue or beneath the underlying muscle, depending on the individual surgical plan.

Why Consider Breast Augmentation?

Patients may consider breast augmentation to:

Increase breast volume
Improve breast proportions
Address differences in breast size
Restore volume following pregnancy or weight loss
Reconstruct breast volume following surgery

It is important to have realistic expectations about what breast implants can and cannot achieve.

Choosing Breast Implants

There are many implant options available.

During your consultation, factors that may be considered include:

Your existing breast size and shape
Breast and chest anatomy
Amount of existing breast tissue
Implant size
Implant shape
Implant position
Incision location
Your individual goals

Rather than choosing an implant based solely on a particular cup size, the decision should take your anatomy and the overall proportions of your body into account.

Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia.

An incision is made to create access for the implant. The implant is then positioned according to the surgical plan, and the incision is closed.

The current practice information states that breast augmentation surgery generally takes approximately 1.5–2.5 hours, although operating time can vary between patients.

Recovery After Breast Augmentation

After surgery, it is common to experience swelling, tightness and discomfort around the breasts.

Your recovery instructions will cover:

Pain relief
Wound care
Support garments
Physical activity
Exercise
Driving
Returning to work
Follow-up appointments

The recovery period varies between patients and should be discussed during your consultation.

Breast Implant Risks and Considerations

Breast augmentation is surgery and carries potential risks.

These may include infection, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensation, scarring, asymmetry, changes in breast shape, implant-related complications and the possibility of additional surgery.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. They may require monitoring and, in some circumstances, replacement or removal in the future.

Your surgeon will discuss the specific risks and implant considerations relevant to you before surgery.

Breast Augmentation Consultation in Auckland

A consultation is required before breast augmentation.

During your appointment, Mr Loo can assess your suitability for surgery and discuss the available implant and surgical options.

The practice is located at:

Auckland Plastic Surgery Group
Unit 6, 31 Highbrook Drive
East Tāmaki, Auckland 2013

Phone: (09) 220 2580

Breast augmentation surgery is currently listed as being performed at Kākāriki Hospital and Ormiston Hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions
How are breast implants placed?

An implant can be positioned beneath the breast tissue or beneath the underlying muscle. The most appropriate position depends on your anatomy and surgical plan.

How long does breast augmentation surgery take?

The current practice information gives approximately 1.5–2.5 hours, although the actual operating time varies.

Will breast augmentation give me a particular cup size?

A specific cup size cannot be guaranteed. Implant selection needs to consider your anatomy, existing breast tissue and the proportions of your body.

Are breast implants permanent?

No. Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, and some patients may require further surgery in the future.

How soon can I exercise after breast augmentation?

Your surgeon will advise when you can safely resume different activities. The timing depends on your recovery and the type of activity.