Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation under general anaesthesia typically takes sixty to ninety minutes. The surgeon creates a pocket either above (subglandular) or below (submuscular or dual-plane) the pectoralis major muscle, accessed through an incision at the inframammary fold, around the areola, or within the axilla. The implant — pre-filled silicone gel, saline-filled, or a structured variant — is inserted into the pocket and positioned symmetrically. The incision is closed in layers and a supportive surgical bra is applied.

Candidacy assessment includes evaluation of existing breast tissue volume and ptosis, chest wall anatomy, skin quality, and the patient's aesthetic goals. Patients with significant ptosis may require a concurrent mastopexy (breast lift), which adds surgical complexity and scarring. Submuscular placement is associated with lower capsular contracture rates and more natural appearance in patients with minimal native breast tissue but involves a more involved recovery. Dual-plane placement is a common compromise. Women with a personal or strong family history of breast cancer should discuss screening protocols with their oncologist before proceeding.

Initial recovery involves moderate discomfort, particularly with submuscular placement where muscle movement causes pain for one to two weeks. Patients are typically advised to avoid raising the arms above shoulder height and strenuous upper-body activity for four to six weeks. Implants generally settle into their final position over three to six months. Long-term surveillance is recommended, as silicone implant rupture may be silent and detectable only on MRI.

Breast augmentation pricing typically encompasses the surgeon's fee, implants, anaesthesia, theatre facility costs, and a surgical bra. The implant brand is a significant cost variable: premium brands (Mentor, Allergan/Natrelle, Motiva, Sebbin) carry higher per-unit costs than generic alternatives but offer more comprehensive manufacturer warranties. Patients should confirm the specific brand, series, and catalogue number of the implants to be used, as quoted prices from different clinics are not directly comparable without this information.

Costs commonly excluded from headline prices include pre-operative blood tests, medical consultations and suitability assessments, the anaesthetist's fee if charged separately, post-operative medications, compression garments beyond the initial surgical bra, and any overnight hospital stay required beyond the standard day-surgery model. Implant warranty programmes (which may cover rupture-related replacement costs for ten or more years) typically require registration and are manufacturer-specific; patients travelling abroad should ensure the warranty is valid internationally and retain all documentation.

In the first one to three days post-operatively, any surgical drains (used in some cases) are monitored and typically removed before discharge. Discomfort is most pronounced during this period, particularly with submuscular placement, where chest tightness and difficulty raising the arms are common. Patients are fitted with a supportive surgical bra, which is worn continuously for four to six weeks. Light walking is encouraged from day one; however, lifting anything heavier than approximately one kilogram and overhead arm movements should be avoided for the first four to six weeks.

By two weeks most patients are comfortable at rest and able to manage light daily activities, though driving is generally not recommended for two to three weeks. Return to non-strenuous work is typically possible within one to two weeks. High-impact exercise and heavy lifting remain restricted until the six-week mark, when the surgeon usually reassesses the wound and implant position. The implants gradually soften and descend into their natural position over three to six months as the surrounding tissue accommodates them — this settling process, sometimes called dropping and fluffing, determines the final appearance.

Breast augmentation is commonly sought abroad as a single-trip procedure, and this is generally feasible for uncomplicated cases. Patients should plan to remain at the destination for a minimum of seven to ten days to allow for wound inspection, early identification of complications (haematoma, seroma, early infection), and suture or drain management if applicable. Long-haul flights in the early post-operative period carry a heightened risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism due to immobility combined with a pro-coagulant surgical state; compression stockings and prophylactic low-molecular-weight heparin should be discussed with the surgical team before flying.

Critically, the implant brand and product details must be documented and retained by the patient. If implant rupture, malposition, or capsular contracture develops months or years later in the home country, the treating surgeon will need exact implant specifications. Some implant warranty programmes require that any revision surgery be reported to the manufacturer; an overseas original procedure may complicate this process. Patients should identify a plastic surgeon in their home country before travelling who is willing to provide long-term follow-up and manage any late complications.