Breast Augmentation – also known as Augmentation Mammaplasty.
What is Breast Augmentation Consultation?
Breast augmentation, also called augmentation mammaplasty, is an appointment with a specialist plastic surgeon to assess concerns related to breast volume, breast shape or changes that have occurred due to ageing, pregnancy, weight variation or previous medical treatment.
People may seek this consultation to understand the medical, structural or reconstructive reasons for changes in the breast area. Only a qualified specialist plastic surgeon can determine whether breast augmentation is appropriate after reviewing your anatomy, medical history and expectations.
This consultation focuses on assessment and suitability, not on promoting any particular procedure.
What areas does it address?
During the assessment, the surgeon may review:
• Breast volume and proportion
• Skin quality and elasticity
• Breast symmetry and shape
• Chest wall structure
• Previous surgeries, scars or medical conditions
• Whether non surgical or reconstructive alternatives may be considered first
The goal is to understand your individual presentation and determine whether a surgical approach is medically appropriate, safe and aligned with your circumstances.
Who may be referred for a Breast Augmentation Consultation?
A GP may refer someone for specialist review if they:
• Have changes in breast volume or symmetry
• Are undergoing reconstruction following mastectomy or trauma
• Have concerns related to breast structure or proportion
• Would like medical advice regarding breast changes after pregnancy or weight loss
A referral does not guarantee that surgery will be recommended. Suitability is confirmed only after a complete clinical assessment.
How is suitability determined?
Suitability is based on a number of factors, assessed during consultation:
• General health and medical history
• Breast and chest wall anatomy
• Skin characteristics and tissue support
• Personal goals and expectations
• Any reconstructive indications
• Whether conservative or alternative pathways may be more appropriate
Not all people will be candidates for this procedure. Your surgeon will explain the reasons you may or may not be suitable based on safety and clinical requirements.
Understanding what the procedure involves
Breast augmentation is performed under general anaesthesia in a licensed hospital or surgical facility. The prIf breast augmentation is considered appropriate, the surgeon will outline the procedure in general terms to support informed consent. This may include:
• Where incisions are commonly placed
• General information about implant placement options
• Broad considerations regarding implant type
• What is typically involved during recovery
Detailed technical information is only provided within a medical consultation. The surgeon will also explain situations where breast augmentation is not recommended.
Downtime and aftercare
If surgery is advised, your surgeon will outline general recovery considerations, which may include:
• Expected swelling or tightness in the early weeks
• Temporary restrictions on lifting or upper body activity
• The use of supportive garments
• Follow up review appointments
• Signs that require prompt medical attention
Recovery varies between individuals. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance during consultation.
Surgical or non-surgical?
Surgical
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that must be carried out in a licensed and accredited medical facility.
Who performs this procedure?
In Australia, breast augmentation must be performed by a registered medical practitioner who is appropriately qualified, trained and experienced in breast surgery. This includes:
• Specialist Plastic Surgeons who hold AHPRA specialist registration and have formal training in breast and reconstructive surgery
• Other medical practitioners who have completed additional surgical training in breast procedures
All breast augmentation procedures must be carried out in a licensed and accredited hospital or surgical facility with appropriate anaesthetic support, safety systems and postoperative care.
Patients are encouraged to:
• Confirm the practitioner’s formal qualifications and surgical training
• Ask about their experience with breast surgery and similar procedures
• Ensure the facility meets Australian accreditation and safety standards
• Discuss postoperative follow up and how care will be coordinated
Is a referral required?
Yes. People considering elective cosmetic surgery need to follow a regulated pathway designed to support informed and safe decision making. Every person must complete the following steps before any procedure can be booked:
• A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon. This helps ensure your broader health needs are reviewed and that cosmetic surgery is the right pathway to explore.
• You must attend a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon who would perform the operation. At least one of these appointments must occur in person. These consultations allow time to review your medical history, assess suitability and discuss risks in detail.
• A cooling off period is required after the final consent appointment. This time is set aside for you to think carefully about the information provided, ask more questions if needed and decide whether to proceed.
These steps apply to all elective cosmetic surgery in Australia. They are in place to support careful consideration and protect patient safety.
Risks and considerations
All surgery carries risks. Your surgeon will discuss risks that may include:
• Infection or bleeding
• Scarring
• Changes in nipple sensation
• Capsular contracture
• Implant rupture or movement
• The possibility of future revision surgery
A full risk discussion is part of the informed consent process.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Is breast augmentation covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not typically cover procedures performed for cosmetic reasons. Partial support may apply in certain reconstructive situations. Eligibility can only be confirmed after specialist assessment.
Q: How long do breast implants last?
Implants are not lifetime devices. They may require monitoring, replacement or revision over time. Your surgeon will explain the factors that influence longevity.
Q: Will there be scars?
Incision placement depends on the clinical approach. Your surgeon will explain likely incision sites and provide guidance on scar care.
Q: When can I return to normal activities?
This varies between individuals. Your surgeon will outline expected timelines for returning to light activity and when to avoid upper body strain.
Q: Can breastfeeding be affected?
Your surgeon will discuss how different surgical approaches may influence breastfeeding, depending on your anatomy and medical history.
