Breast Augmentation, Enlargements and Implants

How do I know what size is best for me?

At your consultation, Dr Kenton-Smith will encourage you to try different implants within a range that is suitable for you. Most women request implants in the 250cc to 350cc range. Implant cup sizes, like cup sizes of bra manufacturers, vary. By trying on a surgical bra with different implants, you can determine the best size for you.

Will I need a lift / mastopexy?

A lift, or mastopexy, is recommended for sagging breasts, and is not usually required with breast augmentation surgery. Dr Kenton-Smith will assess your need and advise you accordingly. Although lifts can be performed at the same time as breast enlargement, they are often left to a second-stage surgery.

How is the surgery performed?

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia at St Georges or Southern Cross Hospital in Christchurch. Dr Kenton-Smith will see you on the ward to answer any final questions and mark your breasts prior to surgery.

Usually, an incision is made underneath the breast within the fold. In some cases, incisions are made around the areola of the nipple or within the axilla (under-arm area.) The best approach for you will have been decided at the time of your consultation. Dr. Kenton-Smith generally places the implant underneath the pectoralis major muscle. This results in a more natural contour and cleavage, in contrast to some American results, where the outline of implants is obvious.

The surgery takes approximately one hour. You will awaken in Recovery and generally stay in hospital just one night. The following morning, after review by Dr. Kenton-Smith, you can return home.

How long will I be off work?

Most women return to work after two weeks, some sooner. One week after surgery, you will have a follow-up consultation with Dr Kenton-Smith. You should not lift heavy items, including young children, for 2-3 weeks following surgery. You should also avoid vigorous exercise for 3-4 weeks. Walking is permitted as soon as it is comfortable.

What are the risks of surgery?

There is a small risk of returning to theatre on the evening of the day of surgery because of bleeding. This is extremely rare. There is approximately a 1% risk of implant infection. This would result in the removal of the implant and reinsertion of a new implant three months later. The chances of this happening are slightly higher if you smoke. There may be minor differences between the two breasts and long term, in some cases, a lift of one or both breasts may be required. In women with very thin skin, there is a chance that the implant will ripple or that it can be felt. Long term, there is approximately a 10% risk of capsular contracture. This is the formation of a hard scar around the implant, which may require further surgery.

How long do breast implants last?

The breast implants used by Dr Kenton-Smith have a lifetime guarantee. This means that should the implant fail, the manufacturer will exchange it free of charge. Theatre, surgical and anaesthetic fees for replacing the implant will, however, apply. The silicon implants used are generally expected to have a 1-2% failure rate per year. This means it is extremely unlikely that the implant will fail within ten years. It is, however, safest to consider the implants may need to be replaced in your lifetime.

How much does it cost?

The cost of breast augmentation ranges from approximately $18,500 - 19,500 for round implants and $19,200 - 20,200 for anatomic implants, this includes the cost of the implants together with hospital, anaesthetic and surgeon's fees. A more exact price guide will be calculated after your consultation with Dr Kenton-Smith.