Breast surgery is often performed for aesthetic purposes only, but in some cases, it can also be deemed as a medical necessity. In such cases, patients may be able to get a Medicare rebate and health fund subsidy.
How is Breast Surgery Performed?
Surgery is performed with the patient under general anaesthesia. The interventions can take from one to three hours, depending on the complexity of each case and the surgical approach.
If you are wondering where the incisions are placed when breast surgery is performed, you should know that in most cases, Dr Hunt aims to conceal them in the natural folds of the skin. However, the scars may still be visible after surgery.
The inframammary incision is the incision most commonly used for breast augmentation mammoplasty with implants and for other types of breast procedures. This incision is placed on the crease under the breasts, where the breasts meet the chest wall.
Why Patients Might Consider Breast Surgery
Commonly, a patient may undergo breast surgery to:
- Alter the size or shape of the breasts
- Achieve greater symmetry
- Address inverted nipples
- Elevate breasts that have skin laxity
- Relieve symptoms caused by heavy breasts
Note that the results and benefits are not a guarantee, and there is always a risk of an unwanted outcome. Consulting with an experienced surgeon such as Dr Hunt can reduce, although not completely prevent, complications from occurring.
Recovery after Breast Surgery
The recovery period after surgery is highly dependent on the complexity of the procedure. The area is usually swollen and bruised after the intervention.
It is best to avoid strenuous physical activities during the first two weeks after a breast surgery and returning to the gym is only possible after four to six weeks, in some cases even more. Here are more recommendations for the recovery period after breast surgery:
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks
- Avoid steam rooms and saunas
- Sleep on your back
- Avoid lifting heavy objects from the floor
- Avoid ample arms movements
To avoid risks and complications that could occur during the recovery period make sure to follow Dr Hunt’s indications.
How much does breast surgery cost in Sydney NSW? Prices & Fees
The cost of Breast Surgery in Sydney, Australia varies for each patient depending on the type of procedure, the results you want and the time required in theatre.
Your total cost will include surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist fee, hospital fees and surgical aftercare & support.
During your initial consultation, Dr Hunt will review your medical history, perform a comprehensive assessment of your breasts and body shape, discuss risks and provide you with an accurate cost for your procedure.
You can also learn more about possible Medicare & Health Fund coverage, a Breast Surgery Payment Plan, or the costs for breast surgery on our Surgical Costs page.
Take the next step today
With over 20 years of experience as a plastic surgeon, Dr Jeremy Hunt aims to provide patient-tailored procedure outcomes using different surgical techniques.
Dr Hunt prides himself on the level of care and attention he offers and that begins from the day of first consultation.
Join the thousands of past patients today by booking a consultation with Dr Hunt.
Next Step – Fill in the Enquiry form or call Dr Hunt’s Team on 02 9327 1733.
Aesthetic Edge by Dr Jeremy Hunt
Your Next Steps
Always Do Your Research
Book Your First Consultation
- Your Surgeon Consultation Fee is $400
- You will need a Referral from your GP
- Phone the team or email to Book your consultation
Prepare for your Plastic Surgeon Consultation
- Bring a friend or relative to help discuss the information.
- Take lots of notes and read the documents provided.
- Dress in simple clothes as you may need to undress.
- Bring your GP Referral and your test results.
Breast Surgery Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Recovery after Breast Surgery?
Depending on the type of surgery you undergo, recovery time could be anything from a few days (Nipple Correction) to a few weeks (Breast Reduction Mammoplasty), and can also depend on factors like your age and health. But the key to a successful recovery is to plan plenty of rest and quiet time. And always follow instructions regarding diet, exercise and any precautions.
Dr Hunt advises anyone undergoing surgery to take two weeks off work, though you can normally resume light activities within 48 hours. Generally speaking, complete recovery can take up to six weeks, though the tenderness you’ll feel in the first few days quickly dies down. Any bruising will usually have settled after the first week.
As with all surgery, there are a number of things you can do to aid your recovery, like plenty of bed rest, limiting physical activity, eating well, drinking plenty of fluids and getting lots of sleep. Clear your schedule of work and social commitments for the advised length of time and follow your surgeon’s instructions.
What are my Breast Surgery Options?
There are numerous surgery options. Dr Hunt describes each procedure and the results you can expect from each.
Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty with Implants
Breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery is a procedure that uses implants to increase the size of the breasts. If you are unhappy with the size of your breasts, then this could be a breast surgery option for you. During your consultation with Dr Hunt he will discuss the different implant and sizing options which may be appropriate for you.
Breast Enlargement using your Own Fat
Autologous Fat Grafting or Fat Transfer to Breasts can be used to increase the size of your breasts by relocating fat from other parts of your body. The fat grafting process is not as reliable as an implant but can be an option for many patients. Fat can also be combined with an implant – known as a Hybrid Augmentation or a Composite Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty.
Breast Reduction Mammoplasty
Many women who are considering breast reduction mammoplasty surgery suffer from back pain and discomfort due to their large breasts. A breast reduction mammoplasty helps to achieve smaller, firmer breasts that are in better proportion to your body.
Breast Lift Mammoplasty
As you get older breasts can lose their shape and firmness. This can be due to several factors such as weight loss or weight gain, pregnancy, breastfeeding and ageing. Breast lift mastopexy surgery removes excess tissue to reshape and reposition the breasts. It can also be combined with a breast augmentation mammoplasty if you’d like to increase as well as the elevation of your breasts.
Breast Implant Revision
There may be many reasons for wanting your current breast implants to be revised or changed. You may be unhappy with their shape or size. Or, you may have had complications with your implants such as deflation or leaking or complications after surgery. Whatever the reason, Dr Hunt can remove or replace your implants.
Breast Asymmetry
Most women have one breast that is slightly bigger than the other, however in some cases it can be more extreme and noticeable than others. A breast reduction mammoplasty or a breast augmentation mammoplasty can help correct the discrepancy between uneven breasts.
Breast Reconstruction
If you have had surgery to treat cancer or another disease, then you may be considering a breast reconstruction. Reconstructive surgery is complex and must be tailored to your specific needs. The type of surgery you had – lumpectomy, mastectomy, node removal – will have a big influence on the type of reconstructive procedure you require. Dr Hunt will thoroughly explain all the options to you and aim to provide a welcoming and supportive environment.
Postpartum Surgery – Combined Breast Surgery & Abdominoplasty
After pregnancy many mothers find that their bodies don’t always return to how they were before pregnancy. Postpartum surgery refers to a combined surgery – usually pairing abdominoplasty with either a breast lift mastopexy or breast augmentation mammoplasty.
