Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, can be a cosmetic procedure or a reconstructive procedure in the case of breast reconstruction surgery. The procedure involves implants being inserted beneath the breasts to enlarge them. The implant type and size depends on factors such as how much bigger you want your breasts to be, your breast anatomy, skin thickness and elasticity, and body type.

Breast implants can be used to:

• Enlarge small breasts
• Restore breast volume after weight reduction or pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Even up asymmetric breasts

Breast augmentation can be done under general or local anaesthesia, or twilight sedation. Discuss your options with your Specialist Plastic Surgeon.

Modern anaesthesia is safe and effective, but does have some risks. Ask your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and anaesthetist for more information. Your surgeon and/or anaesthetist will ask you about all the medications you are taking or have taken, and any allergies you may have. Make sure you have an up to date list before the surgery.

Individual cases may vary but generally, mothers can breastfeed after having breast augmentation. However, some women do experience reduced nipple sensation following breast augmentation surgery making it difficult to trigger the milk let down reflex. Some women may also experience reduced milk supply. If you are planning to breastfeed after breast augmentation surgery, talk to your Specialist Plastic Surgeon to get the latest information on this issue.

The ABDR is a registry for implantable breast devices (implants and expanders). It tracks the outcomes and quality of all breast device surgery performed across Australia and reports progressively on the long term performance of implanted devices with the aim of improving patient safety.