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EXPERIENCED BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGEON IN BRISBANE

A specialist plastic surgeon’s approach to breast augmentation surgery, supported by compassionate care. Scroll down to learn more about benefits, risks, recovery and view hundreds of before and after photos from Dr Sharp’s patients.

 Breast augmentation surgery in Brisbane

Welcome to our breast augmentation clinic in Brisbane, where your wellbeing is paramount. We understand that choosing to undergo breast augmentation is an important and personal decision. We are a woman-led cosmetic surgery practice, and our friendly team is here to guide you through each step, providing an inclusive, compassionate, comfortable and confidential environment.

When planning your breast augmentation (mammoplasty) journey in Brisbane, it is important to select a qualified specialist plastic surgeon that frequently performs the procedure, using best practice safety measures and high quality silicone implants that carry long term warranty provisions.

As the best surgeon patient relationship is one that provides support long after your breast augmentation is completed, it is also helpful to understand the ethos that underpins patient care in your clinic of choice.

 

Why Choose Dr David Sharp for Your Breast Augmentation?

  • Expertise: Dr Sharp performs breast augmentation surgery many times, every week. And although he is highly experienced, he never stops learning; attending professional development events, conferences and collaborating with other plastic surgeons to ensure his patients receive the very best skills. 
  • Patient-Centric Approach: From your initial consultation to your final follow-up appointment, our compassionate team is focused on your unique needs, making sure that you are informed and comfortable throughout the process. We know what it feels like to be in our patients’ shoes and the excitement and nerves that come with a surgical journey. 
  • Safety Measures: We practice and operate from high quality, accredited facilities that follows stringent safety protocols to mitigate risks and complications. Our supportive team stays up to date with best practice, clinically recommended post operative techniques and products, ensuring you receive diligent care.
  • Ongoing Support: We cultivate strong, long lasting surgeon/patient relationships that extend beyond the surgery, focusing on comprehensive aftercare and satisfaction.

 

Patients Undergo Breast Augmentation To:

 

  • EMake their breasts larger
  • EIncrease their breast fullness and projection
  • EAdjust their body proportion and balance
  • EReduce size asymmetry
  • EReconstruct after mastectomy or injury

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You may also hear breast augmentation surgery referred to as:

  • EBreast enlargement or enhancement
  • ESilicone implants
  • EBreast job or breast implants
  • EAugmentation mammoplasty

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a significant step. We are committed to providing you with reliable, evidence-based information, allowing you to make a confident decision. While breast augmentation surgery offers many benefits, it is essential to be well informed and have realistic expectations. Read on to learn more about what to expect!

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Before and after surgery

Scroll down to read more about breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp, after the image gallery. When viewing before and after images, please note they are only indicative of the individual patient’s result and outcomes vary depending on a number of factors including genetics, nutrition, natural body habitus and adherence to post operative instructions. To view scarring, please click here

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 400cc ergononomix implants.

 

Please scroll down to view hundreds of before and after photos from patients who have had breast augmentation surgery in Brisbane with Dr Sharp. 

How do I choose the right implant for me?

During an in-depth consultation process, Dr Sharp uses a combination of key anatomical measurements, implant ‘sizers’ and simulation technology to identify the best implant selection for each individual patient. Sometimes, this includes the use of fat grafting or fat transfer, whereby a small amount of fat is taken from another part of the body and transplanted to the breast, adding natural tissue alongside implants.

This decision is made directly between the surgeon and the patient, differentiating our clinic from some others.

What does breast augmentation surgery involve?

High-quality silicone cohesive gel implants are placed either beneath or above the breast muscle. The aim is to augment breast size or restore volume, due to factors such as under-development, weight loss, cancer or breastfeeding. Dr David Sharp practice dual plane and short scar techniques and operates under general anaesthesia, generally as a day procedure.

Scroll beyond our extensive before and after photo gallery to find more information about benefits, risks, recovery and Dr Sharp’s approach to breast augmentation surgery.

What breast augmentation surgery won’t do

Breast augmentation does not correct severely drooping breasts (ptosis). If you want your breasts to look fuller and to be lifted due to sagging, a breast lift (mastopexy) may be required as well.

Surgery alone won’t resolve poor body image or self confidence. We recommend undertaking this procedure when you are in a stable, healthy place in your life, with the knowledge that aesthetic surgery does not fix broader life issues.

Image below right: Dr Sharp uses a Keller Funnel to safely position implants. Read on  to discover why Dr Sharp has taken the Macquarie University 14 Point Pledge to ensure optimal implant safety for all of his patients.

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Brisbane plastic surgeon Dr David Sharp

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Download Dr Sharp’s Breast Augmentation Guide

It is essential to be well informed prior to undertaking any surgical procedure, including the spectrum of risks and recovery requirements. Read more about having a breast augmentation with Dr Sharp in our helpful patient guide. 

Download the guide

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BREAST AUGMENTATION GALLERY: BEFORE + AFTER PHOTO

Scroll down to read more about breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp, after the image gallery.

PERUSE BREAST AUGMENTATION RESULTS IN A DIVERSE RANGE OF AGES, SIZES, ETHNICITIES & BODY SHAPES

or scroll down for our full gallery of before and after photos.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 330cc anatomical moderate plus implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 330cc anatomical implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 375cc round full profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 260cc and 300cc anatomical high profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 355cc ergonomix full projection implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 275cc ergonomix full profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants

Before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 255cc anatomical moderate profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 295cc round implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 375cc and 330cc anatomical moderate plus implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation and fat grafting surgery with Dr Sharp using 330cc anatomical moderate plus profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 330cc anatomical moderate plus implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation and fat grafting surgery with Dr Sharp using 335cc ergonomix full profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 300cc anatomical high profile implants. Patient is wearing silicone tape over her incisions.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 440cc anatomical high profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 295cc anatomical implants (patient is wearing silicone tape over her incision lines)

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 335cc ergonomix full profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 300cc anatomical implants. This patient had previously undergone a mastopexy (years prior) and combined their breast surgery with abdominoplasty and liposuction.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp; this patient combined their surgery with abdominoplasty. 

before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp: this patient had anatomical cohesive gel implants placed under the muscle 

before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 330cc anatomical moderate profile implants

before and three month after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants. Patient is wearing silicone tape over incisions.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 335cc ergonomix full profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 355cc and 315cc ergonomix full profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 355cc ergonomix full profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 330cc anatomical moderate plus  implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 375cc round full profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 375cc anatomical moderate plus implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 390cc anatomical high profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants. Patient is wearing silicone tape over incisions.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 390cc anatomical high profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 180cc ergonomix implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 295cc and 330cc anatomical moderate plus implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 300cc anatomical high profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 440cc anatomical high profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 390cc anatomical high profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 255cc anatomical implants

before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 340cc ergonomix demi profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation, abdominoplasty and liposuction surgery with Dr Sharp using 300cc anatomical high profile implants. Patient had previously had a mastopexy (breast lift) with another surgeon years prior.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 260cc anatomical high profile implants. Patient is wearing silicone tape over incisions.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 332cc ergonomix implants

before and three months after breast augmentation with Dr David Sharp: anatomical cohesive gel implants placed under the muscle to improve chest wall deformity.

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 345cc anatomical high profile implants 

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp using 380cc and 430cc anatomical high profile implants

before and three months after breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp. Patient also underwent abdominoplasty during her operation. 

before and three months after breast augmentation and mastopexy surgery with Dr Sharp using 450cc ergonomix full profile implants 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT
Breast Augmentations in Brisbane

Why Consider Breast Augmentation in Brisbane?

Choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a deeply personal decision, and it should primarily be for your own well-being and satisfaction – not for someone else. At our clinic, you’ll find a supportive environment to discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Sharp. Pictured below: before and 3 months after breast augmentation with Dr Sharp. 

breast augmentation implants surgeon

What Are the Common Objectives for Breast Augmentation?

  • Enlarging Breast Size: Some women seek to add volume to breasts that did not develop to be as large as they’d like.
  • Adjust Breast Shape: Alter breast shape and increase firmness; implant selection enables the surgeon to do this using implant options, customised to your individual body shape and proportions
  • Replacement of Lost Volume: Factors like pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing can affect breast shape. Breast augmentation can increase fullness.
  • Revision of Prior Surgeries: For those who have had previous surgeries and are not satisfied with the results, a corrective breast augmentation may be considered.

Setting Realistic Expectations:

While breast augmentation can significantly changes the size and shape of your breasts, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations. The procedure won’t transform you into your ideal self, nor will it change how others perceive or treat you.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

The most satisfied patients are those who seek change rather than perfection. If you are physically healthy, mentally and emotionally in a good place and have a realistic outlook on what to expect from the surgery, you are likely to be a good candidate for breast augmentation.

Before making any decision, it’s essential to consult with Dr Sharp to discuss your specific needs and expectations comprehensively.

How do I know if breast augmentation is right for me?

Breast augmentation is a highly individualised procedure and may not be suitable for everyone. Breast augmentation results are often portrayed as oversized, sexualised depictions of reality. Most of Dr Sharp’s patients are average-sized women who are simply seeking proportion, balance and shape. Dr Sharp focuses on achieving a result that sits in harmony with the patient’s overall body.

 

Before you decide on breast augmentation with implants, there are some important issues to keep in mind:

  • Breast augmentation does not correct ptotic (drooping) breasts.
  • Many women breastfeeding with implants in place but it is possible they may affect your ability to breastfeed
  • Breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime and future surgery may be required to replace one or both implants; it is not possible to accurately determine today, the expected costs of doing so, in five, ten or twenty years’ time.
  • Smokers are at increased risk of complications from any surgery. If you are serious about undergoing cosmetic surgery, you should quit smoking or vaping
  • If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic treatments to boost your confidence, there are alternatives to cosmetic surgery. These may include other treatments, wearing padded bras – or not having surgery at all.
  • External pressures from the media, partners or friends can influence how men and women view their bodies. Dr Sharp doesn’t support his patients having surgery for the sake of conforming or meeting anyone else’s expectations. If you aren’t doing it for yourself, reconsider having surgery at this point in your life.

 

Breast augmentation may be a suitable option for you if:

  • You are physically and mentally healthy
  • You have realistic expectations
  • Your breasts are fully developed
  • You feel that your breasts are too small
  • You are dissatisfied with your breasts losing shape and volume after pregnancy, weight loss, or with ageing
  • Your breasts vary in size or shape (asymmetry)
  • One or both breasts did not develop normally
  • Remember that the shape and size of your breasts before surgery will influence the surgical procedure and the outcome.
  • Have read and understood the risks, recovery and potential outcomes of surgery

Breast augmentation risks and complications

Research shows that in Australia, approximately 20,000 women undergo breast device surgery each year. Cosmetic surgery (and elective surgery in general) in Australia has low mortality and morbidity rates when performed by appropriately trained surgeons, on healthy surgical candidates, in an accredited facilities.

But like any surgery, you must weigh up whether the benefits of breast augmentation outweigh the risks for you. All operations carry risks. Your pre-operative consultations with Dr Sharp will enable him to discuss potential complications with you, and help you determine whether the surgery is right for you.

What is a complication?

Surgery aims to create improvements. Where a patient achieves an improvement, but does not perceive it to be enough of an improvement, this is not considered a surgical ‘complication’. Read more about the classification of complications here.

A surgical complication is an unexpected deviation from the normal surgical course.  For example, not liking your postoperative breast size is not a complication, but wound dehiscence or an infection around your implant is a complication.

Possible complications of surgery in general include:

  • Acute medical event such as stoke, heart attack, pneumonia
  • The need for revision or further surgery
  • Pain which does not respond to pain relief
  • Nerve damage, causing altered sensation or loss of sensation – temporary or permanent
  • Haematoma (collection of blood), oedema (collection of fluid) and abscess
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolisms (PE)
  • Damage or or loss of loose teeth during placement of anaesthetic apparatus
  • Sore throat, swelling or discomfort following placement of breathing tubes during anaesthetic
  • Breathing difficulties following anaesthetic
  • Allergic reaction to medication
  • Allergic reaction to sutures, dressings, tapes or intraoperative solutions
  • Heavy bleeding from the wound, which may require further surgery
  • Poor or slow skin healing, wound infection, breakdown or necrosis (skin death)
  • Wound dehiscence (incision separation)
  • Adverse scarring
  • Psychological impact of surgery, recovery or altered appearance
  • Death

Possible breast augmentation specific surgery risks include:

  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation, which most patients experience to some degree; mostly temporary but may be permanent
  • Poor scarring of skin
  • Malposition of the implant
  • Implant leakage or rupture
  • The formation of tight scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture) is a common experience for women with long term implants
  • Wrinkling of the skin over the implant
  • Implant rippling, which most patients experience to some degree especially if they do not have much fat or breast tissue covering the implant
  • Pain, which may persist
  • Possibility of revisional surgery
  • Areola enlargement
  • Migration or altered position of implant
  • Contour deformities
  • Aesthetic concerns, such as asymmetry
  • BIA-ALCL and breast implant illness, which are two rare conditions; please explore these in detail, in the linked articles, which are dedicated to these topics

Complications can occur despite the patient and surgeon’s best efforts to avoid them – so it is important to consider how they may impact you physically, emotionally and financially if they do arise.

Dr Sharp and his team manage known risks with the upmost care to further reduce the likelihood of them occurring. In the event they do occur, most can be treated with prompt intervention.

Everyone’s body responds differently to surgery. In some cases, post-operative revision surgery might be required.

How do we reduce the chance of complications occurring?

  • We select healthy candidates for surgery – that means physically and mentally, they are in the best possible condition to undergo their procedure
  • Dr Sharp is a specialist plastic surgeon, which means he has the appropriate training and qualifications to perform breast augmentation surgery
  • We operate in accredited facilities with a specialist anaesthetist present

Some factors, such as weight, lifestyle or health problems can increase the chance of a complication occurring. Dr Sharp will take time to learn about your potential risk factors during your pre-operative consultations, and will determine if they are relevant to your surgery.

What safety measures does Dr Sharp take?

Plastic surgeons undergo many years of training that equips them with the knowledge and skills to make the cancer and reconstructive procedures they perform as safe as possible. They apply this advanced training and education to the cosmetic procedures that they also perform. As operative safety is an ever-evolving aspect of medicine, they also attend conferences and professional development opportunities to learn from colleagues around Australia and the world. With safety from of mind, Dr Sharp implements a number of safety measures before (preoperative), during (intraoperative) and after (postoperative) surgery:

Preoperatively: Much of our healing depends on our lifestyle: what we eat, whether we smoke, our mental wellbeing and how much physical and emotional support we have at home after our surgery. Well-prepared patients who have good preoperative nutrition, low anxiety levels and closely follow post op instructions have a lower risk of complications. Our team will share the measures that you can put in place, in preparation for a good recovery.

Intraoperatively: Dr Sharp only operates in accredited hospital facilities, using specialist anaesthetists. He uses quality, well researched implants and takes additional steps to ensure best practice patient safety, such as adhering to the Macquarie University 14 Point Plan pledge. Implants do not last forever, but the implants Dr Sharp uses carry low rates of complications, have a long term safety record documented by independent studies and are backed by manufacturers’ warranties for complications such as rupture and capsular contracture.

PostoperativelyPatients are provided with detailed instructions, a bag containing post op care products and invited to participate in a 6 week post op care program in clinic. They are encouraged to return back to the clinic as many times as possible for LED therapy sessions and check-ins with our nursing team. All patients have access to a 24/7 postoperative support phone number. And in the case of a complication, Dr Sharp can admit his patients to one of Australia’s largest private hospitals, Greenslopes Private, where there is a dedicated plastic surgery ward for specialised care.

Breast augmentation is a commonly performed procedure, and when performed in Australia in accredited hospital facilities, they have low morbidity and mortality rates. Despite the best efforts of the surgeon and patient, all surgery carry risks, and Dr Sharp will discuss these with you – in detail – at your consultations.

Breast augmentation recovery

Immediately after your surgery, you will be taken into a recovery area to be closely monitored. Your support bra will be placed on during the surgery, so you will be wearing this when you wake up, helping to minimise swelling and support the breasts as they heal.

Most patients have this procedure as a day case, meaning they go home a few hours after surgery.

After a post-surgical breast augmentation recovery period of 24 to 48 hours and an additional reduced-activity period of a few days, you will likely experience soreness and swelling for a few weeks, or even months.

During this time, you will have support of our post operative care team, who is available 7 days a week, should you have any urgent concerns.

You will return to the clinic for your tapes to be changed at 1 week post op and for further instructions regarding taping and massaging your scars with silicone gel, which is an important part of your recovery and scar optimisation. 

Your support bra is worn for at least 12 weeks, 24/7. After this, you can start wearing soft cup, supportive bras (and no underwire for at least 12 weeks thereafter). We recommend wearing a supportive bra moving forward, as you will find over time your breasts will sag and implants may drop, without support. 

Dr Sharp and your post operative care nurse will give you specific instructions on ongoing wound care, to achieve optimal healing and results. These instructions may include:

  • How to care for your surgical site/s following surgery
  • Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection
  • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site/s or in your general health
  • When to follow-up with Dr Sharp in the rooms

Following breast augmentation surgery you will be unable to drive for at leat 1 week. You also won’t be able to exert yourself or lift anything heavier than 2kg for at least 6 weeks. After this, you will gradually return to normal activities, slowly reintroducing your body to them over the subsequent 6 weeks. This is a slow process and can pose some challenges for patients who are very active! It can also have repercussion for work and family activities during the recovery period.

After the initial 7 days post surgery, most patients experience low levels of discomfort.

During the recovery process, a combination of swelling, disrupted chest muscles and nerves cut (or compressed) by surgery can cause tingling, stinging or sharp pains in the breast. This is a normal part of the recovery process.

You will be prescribed pain relief for any discomfort, but if you have a low pain threshold or post operative trauma from previous surgeries, it is important to consider the potential impact of post operative pain on your mental health. Making arrangements preoperatively to have support in place (via psychologist, GP, family or friends) is recommended if you think this may apply to you.

Post operative concerns such as pain, sudden shape change or increased swelling that appears months or years after surgery requires further investigation, guided by your surgeon; please contact the clinic promptly if this arises.

At your consultation, Dr Sharp will answer specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:

  • Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
  • What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
  • Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? If so, when will they be removed?
  • Are stitches removed? When will they be removed?
  • When can I resume normal activity and exercise?

Types of breast implants

Saline Implants

A silicone envelope filled with varying amounts of sterile salt water (saline). This can affect the shape, firmness and feel of the breast. If the implant shell leaks, a saline implant will collapse and the saline will be absorbed and naturally expelled by the body. Please note, Dr Sharp does not use saline implants.

Silicone Implants

A silicone envelope filled with an elastic gel that feels much like natural breast tissue. If the implant leaks, the gel may remain within the implant shell or it may escape into the scar capsule (area around the implant) or even into the breast tissue. A leaking implant filled with silicone gel may not collapse.

Round Breast Implants

Round breast implants have a tendency to make breasts appear fuller. Higher profile options can achieve even more projection in the upper pole of the breast, and for this reason they are favoured by patients who seek an obviously-augmented appearance. Because round implants are the same shape all over, there is less concern about them rotating out of place. Round implants usually have a smooth surface. 

Anatomical Breast Implants

Anatomical (or tear drop) breast implants‘ main characteristics are a flatter upper breast pole and a fuller lower breast curve. This implant type is commonly used by Dr Sharp as it provides a result that most closely mimics the slope and shape of a breast. 

Ergonomix Breast Implants

Introduced by breast implant manufacturers Motiva, Ergonomix implants are round in appearance when laying flat on a surface, but move ergonomically when upright, forming a slightly teardrop shape. Patients may find they carry the benefits of a round implant (reduced rotation implications) while having a more anatomical look than a traditional round implant. They are a nano textured implant which significantly reduces the risk of biofilm development and BIA-ALCL.

Smooth Breast Implants

Smooth breast implants are the softest-feeling. These implants can move with the breast implant pocket, which may give more natural movement. Smooth implants may have some palpable or visible rippling. Smooth implants carry no risk of BIA-ALCL. 

Textured breast implants

Textured breast implants develop scar tissue to stick to the implant, making them less likely to move around inside of the breast and get repositioned. Texturing offers some advantage in diminishing the risk of a tight scar capsule. Highly textured (macro textured) implants are no longer available in Australia due to safety concerns. Micro textured implants are considered a safer option for patients looking for a textured implant’s benefits, with reduced risks of biofilm and BIA-ALCL. Nano or micro textured implants carry even lower risks of the aforementioned (rare) complications.

Breast augmentation surgery - the procedure

A breast augmentation procedure includes the following steps:

Step 1 – Anaesthesia
Breast augmentation is best performed under a general anaesthetic with a specialist anaesthetist, meaning you will be completely asleep during surgery.

Step 2 – The incision
Dr Sharp uses an inframammary incision as it allows good exposure and manoeuvrability during the surgery and also leaves a scar placed within or close to the breast crease. This placement is also considered to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination

Step 3 – Inserting and placing the breast implant
After the incision is made, a pocket is created for the insertion of the breast implant. The location of the pocket can be either:

  1. Sub-muscular: Under the pectoral muscle
  2. Sub-glandular: Directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle
  3. Dual Plane: placement partially beneath the pectoralis muscle and partially beneath the mammary gland

Step 4 – Closing the incisions
Incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and with sutures and surgical tape to the skin.

Step 5 – See the results
The results of breast augmentation are obscured initially by swelling, bruising and tightness. Final results can take 6-12 months to appear as internal and external scarring matures and the implants settle into place. External scarring takes 24 months to mature. 

Breast implant scars

Scars are an inevitable part of surgery, however Dr Sharp places them under the breast, within or near the folder or breast crease to make them as discreet as possible. Dr Sharp and your post operative support nurse will provide you with the information and resources required to take care of your scars at home. Scars heal better when you follow your post operative instructions strictly, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Scars may fade with time and take about 24 months to fully mature.

Dr Sharp and his team offer a pre and post operative skin optimisation program that supports you in maintaining healthy skin quality throughout, and after, your breast augmentation journey, to help reduce long term scarring.

If you have concerns about scarring, please discuss this with Dr Sharp or your support nurse.

How to maintain your breast augmentation results

Breast augmentation results are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will subside and incision lines will fade.

Breast implant replacement

It’s important to know that breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Further removal and replacement surgery – with associated costs and recovery – may be required in future in order to maintain your results. Dr Sharp invites patients to see him any time they have concerns regarding their implants (pain, shape change or swelling) in the years following their augmentation surgery.

Over time, your breasts can change due to ageing, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and gravity. The effects of gravity, skin stretching and ageing are not something that Dr Sharp can stop, and so it is normal for you to find that your breasts continue to age and sit lower over time. Wearing a supportive bra will help to slow this process down, but it will not halt the natural process our bodies go through over time. 

If, after a period of years, you become dissatisfied with the appearance of your breasts, you may choose to undergo a breast lift or implant exchange. These are also procedures Dr Sharp performs.

How do I choose my surgeon?

Breast augmentation changes your body permanently. It is a major procedure – and therefore, choosing the right surgeon is of upmost importance. Breast augmentation surgery should be performed by a qualified plastic surgeon who is registered as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). You can confirm your surgeon’s credentials here.

Unfortunately, due to poor regulations in Australia, many doctors who perform breast augmentation surgery are not qualified plastic surgeons, and patients are not aware of the differences between a RACS qualified surgeon, and someone who has only completed medical school.

Dr David Sharp is an Australian-qualified plastic surgeon with a special interest in breast augmentation surgery. His personalised approach means that you receive plenty of pre operative time with him to discuss your specific aesthetic features and any questions.

It’s normal to feel both nervous, and an excited sense of anticipation when planning your breast augmentation. Dr Sharp takes the time to ensure you have as many consultations as you require, to ensure your treatment is customised to suit your body and expectations – and address any concerns you may have.

Importantly, we do not ‘outsource’ our consultation process to other healthcare professionals or doctors; your two consultations before undertaking breast augmentation surgery are with the surgeon who will be operating on you: Dr Sharp. This is not the practice in all clinics, so when researching your surgeon be sure to ask who you will see at your initial consult and help you select the right implant – and how many appointments you will have with them prior to your surgery.

Will I be able to breastfeed after augmentation surgery?

Will I be able to breastfeed after augmentation surgery?

This article explores the impact on breastfeeding according to implant features and found that: “a woman with aesthetic breast implants has a 75% chance of breastfeeding if desired”.

Dr Sharp uses an incision and implant placement that avoids disruption to the mammary ducts, however it is not possible to guarantee that you will be able to breastfeed after having implants placed.

Will pregnancy impact my breast augmentation results?

Will my results be impacted by pregnancy?

Pregnancy will cause significant changes in your breasts, and if you have had a breast augmentation prior to having children, you may find that your results are different afterwards. For some women, this results in a more softer, natural post-augmentation result. For others, a repeat breast augmentation is required, and the cost, recoveries and risks involved with this should be discussed with the surgeon if undertaking primary breast augmentation before having children.

Breast augmentation can be safely performed before you have children, however it is important to consider how you may feel if you have a pregnancy following the procedure, and find that your results are impacted by pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are planning future pregnancies, speak to Dr Sharp about the pros and cons of proceeding, or delaying, surgery.

Post partum breast and abdominal procedures

I have finished having children. Can I combined breast and abdominal procedures?

Dr Sharp has a special interest in combined abdominal repair (abdominoplasty) and breast procedures. Click here to read more about surgery options for restoring pre-pregnancy core muscle strength, reducing excess skin and adding volume to/lifting the breasts. 

Scroll down to read more about combined breast augmentation, lift (mastopexy) and abdominoplasty procedures.

Do breast augmentations remove stretch marks?

A breast augmentation does not correct stretch marks.

In some, but not all, of cases the sudden enlargement of the breast can create new stretch marks.

Dr Sharp’s clinic offers a range of skin therapies that may reduce stretch marks. If you are concerned about stretch marks, call 07 3202 4744.

What kind of anaesthetic will I have?

Breast augmentations are performed under a full general anaesthetic. A specifically selected range of medications are administered during the surgery to ensure your post-operative comfort. Dr Sharp works with an experienced team of anaesthetists in accredited hospital facilities. Step behind the scenes to see the theatres and meet one of our anaesthetist, Dr Rob Miskeljin, at South Brisbane Day Hospital. 

Combined breast augmentation + abdominoplasty or breast lift (mastopexy)

Dr Sharp often performs breast augmentation surgery alongside abdominoplasty and/or liposuction. He also performs breast augmentation and lift surgery. Advantages of combining procedures include the aesthetic benefit of having a combined result as well as clinical consideration such as the advantages of a single recovery, time off work and normal activities.

This must be weighed against the increased risks of complications, slow healing and persistent swelling that can come when the body undergoes multiple procedures at the same time. These combined procedures are sometimes chosen by patients who have finished having children and wish to lift ptotic (sagging) breasts, replace lost volume, remove excess stomach skin or repair rectus divarication and hernias. Click here to find out more.

Can I do anything to improve my augmentation scars?

While your augmentation scar will always be visible, there are specific things you can do to improve your breast augmentation scar.

Scarring is dependent on many factors, including:

  1. the position of the scar on the body
  2. postoperative scar care
  3. time since surgery
  4. skin type/quality and genetics 
  5. tension on the scar through movement or stretching 

Scar position 

Scars that are located on parts of the body that are under tension or frequent movement are more likely to be stretched, and thicker. This is why it is important to wear postoperative compression garments after breast augmentation surgery and limit movement that may pull or stretch on the incisions. It is important your breasts are fully supported in a bra 24/7 during the early healing period. Your post op instructions will detail ideal time frames.

Postoperative scar care

Our patients go home with extensive postoperative instructions. These feature evidence-based, best practice scar care recommendations; when followed, they give patients the best possible scar outcome.

It is therefore essential to wear your support garment correctly (our team are always on hand to clarify if you are unsure of the correct positioning), observe physical activity restrictions, practice good nutrition and only use approved tape/products on incisions for the recommended amount of time. We also advocate for daily scar massage once the incision has healed.

When we see poor scarring in otherwise healthy patients, it is usually because one or more of the above recommendations have not been followed.

For example, failure to wear compression garments properly can place additional pressure on the scar or fail to support your implants, resulting in excessive swelling, haematoma or seroma, which can require further surgery, in turn causing more incisional tension and unfavourable scarring.

Essential oils, bleaching creams or any products not supplied or recommended by the clinic can be detrimental to healing and cause wound breakdown, delayed healing and poor scarring.

Time since surgery

It is inevitable that patients will monitor, observe and worry about their scars most closely during the exact phase of natural scar healing when it is always going to be looking its worst; the first 3-12 months postoperatively. This maturation process takes the scar approximately 24 months in total, so patience is needed in order to see the final result! While it might be annoying to hear ‘be patient’ during this period, it is important to give your body time to fully heal.

Scars will always be visible, but rest assured that if postoperative instructions are closely followed, patients usually find their breast scars mature into soft, thin, lightly-coloured scars that are not prominent.

Skin condition, quality or genetics

Some skin types or ethnicities are more predisposed to poor scarring. Sun damaged, aged or thin skin can also scar badly or experience delayed healing. Even if you are genetically predisposed to poor scarring, good scar care can still go some way to improving the appearance of the scar.

Following your surgery, you will be given a scar care pack, post op instructions as well as a gift voucher to spend on scar tape, if you wish. We also offer unlimited, complimentary LED light based therapy for our breast augmentation patients for 6 weeks after surgery, to assist with healing.

How much time should I take off work?

Depending on your work, you could need to take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks off work, although most people return to sedentary jobs after 1-2 weeks.

You should strictly avoid strenuous activity or exertion for six weeks after a breast augmentation. After this time, gently and slowly reintroduce heavier lifting and activities, being cautious to avoid pulling/tearing or painful sensations.

When returning to work also think about the things that you might need to do or carry, such as a heavy laptop or files.

How much do breast augmentations cost?

Potential costs include:

  • Dr Sharp’s fee
  • Costs of implants
  • Anaesthetist’s fee
  • Assistant’s fee
  • Theatre costs
  • Support garments

Breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons is not covered by Medicare or private health insurers.

However, in some cases – such as post-mastectomy – this procedure is classified as reconstructive, and therefore has a Medicare item number. If so, you will be eligible to claim a rebate from Medicare, as well as your private health fund.

It is important to understand that, in the case of complications or revision surgery, the cost of your breast augmentation might extend to future surgical procedures and hospitalisations. Implants do not last forever and future surgeries to remove and replace the implants may be required. If removing implants altogether, a mastopexy (breast lift) may also be required. It is not possible to predict the range of costs that may apply to the gamut of surgeries that may be required – during a lifetime – after having implants placed. But we encourage patients to think about how they would fund further treatment beyond the immediate costs expected.

Breast augmentation; words to know

  • Areola: Pigmented skin surrounding the nipple.
  • Augmentation mammaplasty: Breast enlargement or breast enhancement by surgery.
  • Breast Augmentation: Also known as augmentation mammaplasty; breast enlargement or breast enhancement by surgery.
  • Breast Implants: Medical devices placed in your body to enhance an existing breast size or to reconstruct your breast. Breast implants fall into two categories: saline breast implants and silicone breast implants.
  • Capsular contracture: A complication of breast implant surgery which occurs when scar tissue that normally forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant and becomes firm.
  • General anesthesia: Drugs and/or gases used during an operation to relieve pain and alter consciousness.
  • Hematoma: Blood pooling beneath the skin.
  • Inframammary incision: An incision made in the fold under the breast.
  • Intravenous sedation: Sedatives administered by injection into a vein to help you relax.
  • Local anesthesia: A drug injected directly to the site of an incision during an operation to relieve pain.
  • Mammogram: An x-ray image of the breast.
  • Mastectomy: The removal of breast tissue, typically to rid the body of cancer.
  • MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging; a painless test to view tissue similar to an x-ray.
  • Periareolar incision: An incision made at the edge of the areola.
  • Saline implants: Breast implants filled with salt water.
  • Silicone implants: Breast implants filled with an elastic gel.
  • Submammary or subglandular placement: Breast implants placed directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle.
  • Submuscular or subpectoral placement: Breast implants placed under the pectoral muscle, which is located between the breast tissue and chest wall.
  • Sutures: Stitches used by surgeons to hold skin and tissue together.
  • Transaxillary incision: An incision made in the underarm area.
  • Ultrasound: A diagnostic procedure that projects high frequency sound waves into the body and records the echoes as pictur.

Breast augmentation surgery articles

Click on an article topic below to discover more in-depth information about your breast enlargement surgery options, and Dr Sharp’s approach to this procedure:

 

Would you like to know more about having implants placed in Brisbane with our Breast Augmentation Surgeon? Contact our friendly patient support team.

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