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Woollahra Sydney . Wollongong NSW
How Bebe is performed
Unlike other breast implant techniques that rely on cutting through layers of tissue or muscle, Bebe focuses on creating the implant pocket in a controlled, less invasive way.
During the procedure, a balloon-shaped device is inserted under the breast tissue through a small incision in the inframammary fold on the skin. The device is gradually inflated to gently form the cavity where the implant will be placed.
The approach allows for the pocket to be matched precisely to the size and projection of the chosen implant, while also limiting the amount of force or manipulation applied to the surrounding structures (and helping to preserve internal structures, like the Cooper’s ligaments). Bebe can also be combined in a hybrid fashion with fat grafting, to highlight certain areas such as cleavage or upper pole.
Bebe utilises Motiva smooth-silk surface implants, which have unique properties to allow this technique to be deployed. Both semi-teardrop and round shape implants are available.
Bebe can also be performed without general anaesthesia, instead using sedation with local anaesthesia, depending on your preferences as a patient and certain decisions in operative planning.
Is Bebe right for you?
Bebe is suited to patients who are active, prefer a more modest change in breast volume, and want to limit the recovery period and disruption to their daily lives.
It’s especially appealing to patients involved in sports, weight training, or physically demanding work, where post-surgical muscle disruption can impact performance or comfort.
It may also be a preferred method for those who are looking for subtle volume changes that complement their frame, rather than more significant increases in size.
Those who wish to avoid a general anaesthetic, whether for health reasons or personal preference, might also find this technique worth exploring. However, the procedure still needs to be assessed on a case-by-case basis to make sure you are physically suitable and the surgical plan aligns with your goals.
Good general health, realistic expectations, and a clear understanding of the potential risks and limitations are all vital when considering any type of aesthetic surgery.
If you’re interested in Bebe or any other procedure, a consultation with Dr Hoffman will allow you to discuss your goals and find out if you are a suitable candidate.
Recovery after Bebe
Bebe is performed in a manner that avoids disruption of the chest muscles, which reduces post-operative discomfort and will speed up your return to normal activities. It also removes possible complications such as animation deformity, muscle pain, spasm or shoulder issues.
While traditional breast augmentation techniques may involve more downtime, Bebe patients are able to resume office work or light home duties within a couple of days. Walking and non-strenuous activities are encouraged immediately after the procedure, and return to cardio fitness and strength training in the coming weeks. Dr Hoffman will give you personalised instructions about when you can return to each of your usual activities, including strength-based exercise.
What are the potential risks of Bebe?
Even with a less invasive technique, any breast implant surgery comes with a degree of risk. General complications from surgery include bleeding, infection, slow wound healing, or reactions to anaesthetic.
Risks specific to breast implants may involve:
- Changes in nipple sensation, which may be short-term or long-lasting
- Formation of tight scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture). This is particularly low for the smooth silk-surface implants utilised with Bebe.
- Differences between the two breasts in shape or position
- Shifting of the implant or asymmetry over time
- Implant failure or the need for future revision procedures
- Dissatisfaction with size or shape after healing
Bebe may lower the likelihood of some of these complications occurring, particularly those involving implant movement or tension on the muscle. However, no type of cosmetic procedure can be considered risk-free, and it’s highly important to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to perform your procedure.
Dr Hoffman will go over the details of possible risks and complications before your procedure. You will be able to discuss how these risks will be minimised and what you should do if they occur.
Bebe costs
The costs of a Balloon-Enabled Breast Enhancement will vary depending on several factors.
These include your structural anatomy, the implant chosen, which hospital is utilised and whether additional adjuncts such as fat grafting are recommended.
Costs involve the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, implants, and hospital charges. All of these will be discussed with you by the Practice Manager, following your consultation.
This type of breast surgery is generally considered cosmetic in most circumstances. That means it’s not generally covered by Medicare or private health insurance unless there’s a valid medical or reconstructive reason that can be clearly demonstrated. Dr Hoffman will discuss this with you, if you’re deemed eligible.