In short: Breast augmentation uses implants to increase breast size and improve shape. Dr Kumar’s preference is an inframammary fold incision, with the implant placed behind the muscle, usually in the dual-plane position. The one exception is the Preserve technique, which places a Motiva implant in front of the muscle. It is usually a day case.
- Understanding Breast Augmentation…
- Suitability for Breast Augmentation…
- What to Expect at Your Initial…
- The Mammoplasty Procedure
- Implant Placement Options
- Recovery After Breast Augmentation…
- Implant position and alternatives
- Breast Augmentation Surgery Costs
- Questions
Understanding Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery involves the placement of breast implants. The procedure is considered following consultation and clinical assessment, taking into account individual anatomy, medical history and treatment considerations.
Breast augmentation may be discussed for individuals seeking information about surgical options related to breast volume or changes associated with factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding or reconstructive circumstances.
Breast augmentation does not address changes in breast position. In some cases, additional procedures such as mastopexy (breast lift) may be discussed during consultation, depending on individual anatomy and clinical assessment.
Dr Rohit Kumar is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who performs breast augmentation surgery in Sydney, Penrith and Orange. All procedures are considered following consultation and individual assessment.
Suitability for Breast Augmentation Surgery
Suitability for breast augmentation surgery is determined following consultation and clinical assessment. Factors such as medical history, breast anatomy and individual circumstances are considered.
Breast augmentation surgery may be discussed for individuals who present with:
- Differences in breast volume or breast symmetry
- Changes in breast anatomy associated with weight fluctuations, pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Congenital breast conditions affecting breast development
- Reconstructive considerations following mastectomy or other breast surgery
A consultation with Dr Rohit Kumar is required to determine whether breast augmentation surgery is clinically appropriate and to discuss potential risks, recovery considerations and possible outcomes, which vary between individuals.
What to Expect at Your Initial Consultation
The initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss your medical history, concerns and treatment considerations. Dr Rohit Kumar will assess whether surgical options may be clinically appropriate based on individual circumstances.
During your consultation, discussion may include:
- A physical examination, where appropriate
- Clinical photographs and, in some cases, 3D imaging for illustrative purposes only
- Review of before-and-after images for educational reference, noting that individual outcomes vary
- Discussion of potential surgical options
- Explanation of risks, recovery considerations and limitations of surgery
- Information regarding fees and potential scheduling
- Opportunity to ask questions
Treatment options, including implant types where relevant, are discussed during consultation to support informed decision-making. No outcomes can be guaranteed, and suitability varies between individuals.
You are welcome to bring a support person to your appointment if you wish.
The Mammoplasty Procedure
Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anaesthesia following consultation and clinical assessment. The duration of the procedure varies depending on individual factors and surgical planning.
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered by a qualified anaesthetist. The type of anaesthesia and medications used are determined based on clinical considerations and discussed prior to surgery.
Closing the Incisions
- At the completion of surgery, incisions are closed using appropriate surgical techniques.
- Closure methods may include the use of dissolvable sutures placed beneath the skin, depending on the procedure performed.
- The use of surgical drains, dressings and post-operative garments varies and is determined based on individual surgical factors.
- Post-operative wound care and garment instructions are provided following surgery.
Implant Placement Options
Several implant placement approaches are used in breast augmentation surgery. Dr Kumar’s preference is to place implants beneath the chest muscle, most often in the dual plane position. The one exception is the Preserve technique, described below, in which the implant is placed above the muscle. The approach that suits you is discussed during consultation.
- Subglandular Placement
In this approach, the implant is placed above the chest muscle and beneath the breast tissue. - Subpectoral Placement
With this technique, the implant is positioned beneath the pectoralis (chest) muscle. - Dual Plane Placement
This technique involves partial placement of the implant beneath the chest muscle, with the lower portion positioned beneath the breast tissue.
The Preserve Technique
Dr Kumar also offers breast augmentation using the Preserve technique, a tissue-preserving approach in which he has completed formal training. Through a short incision in the breast crease, purpose-designed instruments develop the implant pocket gradually, with the aim of limiting disruption to the surrounding breast tissue, ligaments and nerves. The implant is placed above the chest muscle using a no-touch insertion technique. This is the only procedure in which Dr Kumar places implants above the muscle: the purpose-designed instruments, the technique and the Motiva implants used with it are what make this placement appropriate.
The Preserve technique can only be performed with Motiva implants, within a defined range of sizes, so it is not suitable for everyone, and long-term outcome data continues to be collected. Whether it is appropriate for you is determined at consultation. Learn more about breast augmentation using the Preserve technique.
Incision Location
Other incision sites, such as around the areola or in the armpit, are used in breast augmentation, but Dr Kumar’s preference is the inframammary fold (IMF) incision, placed in the natural crease beneath the breast, where the scar usually sits hidden within the crease.
With the Preserve technique, the incision is in the same position and is typically shorter.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation Surgery
Recovery following breast augmentation surgery varies between individuals and depends on factors such as the extent of surgery, individual healing response and overall health.
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Day of surgery | Usually a day case. A compression garment or support bra is fitted before you go home. |
| Weeks 1 to 2 | Time off work. Soreness, swelling and tightness across the chest. Walk daily, and avoid lifting or reaching overhead. First review with Dr Kumar and his nurses at about one week. |
| Weeks 2 to 6 | Most patients return to work from about two weeks, then gradually resume most everyday activities over the next four weeks, depending on how physical the activity is. No heavy lifting or straining, and drive only once you can do so comfortably and safely. The Prineo and Micropore dressings come off at six weeks, and the compression garment is worn for six weeks. |
| Weeks 6 to 12 | After your six-week review, exercise and more physical work are built up progressively. Most patients are cleared for full activity at the 12-week review. |
| 3 to 12 months | Swelling settles and the scars mature. Reviews at 6 months and 12 months. |
Guidance regarding time away from work, driving and physical activity is provided during consultation and reviewed as part of post-operative care.
Post-operative garments may be recommended following surgery as part of standard care. Instructions regarding their use are provided after surgery.
Follow-up appointments form an important part of post-operative care. Adhering to post-operative instructions and attending scheduled reviews supports appropriate recovery.
Before-and-after images of breast augmentation procedures performed by Dr Rohit Kumar are available for educational purposes, noting that individual outcomes vary.
View the breast augmentation image gallery
Implant position and alternatives
Most patients have a dual-plane augmentation. The Preserve technique and fat grafting suit specific situations.
| Dual-plane augmentation | Preserve technique | Fat grafting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implant | Yes | Yes, Motiva implants only | No, uses your own fat |
| Position | Partly behind the muscle | In front of the muscle | Within the breast tissue |
| Suits | Most patients; Dr Kumar’s preference | Selected patients assessed as suitable | A modest increase in volume |
More detail: breast augmentation using the Preserve technique and breast fat grafting.
Breast Augmentation Surgery Costs
Fee guide: Breast augmentation has a surgical and aftercare fee from $9,000, plus implants of about $3,000. If you are self-funded, the anaesthetist is $1,300 and the hospital $2,500–$7,000, for an indicative total from $15,800. Fees include GST where it applies, and a Medicare item and your health fund can reduce what you pay. Your written, itemised quote after consultation confirms the figure. See all fees.
The cost of breast augmentation surgery varies depending on individual factors such as the type of procedure performed, implant selection, hospital fees and anaesthetic requirements.
Following your initial consultation with Dr Rohit Kumar, you will be provided with a detailed itemised quote. This may include:
- Surgeon fees
- Anaesthetist fees
- Surgical assistant fees
- Hospital or operating theatre fees
- Post-operative care and follow-up as part of standard clinical practice
Implants and any additional procedures are quoted separately where applicable. Breast augmentation surgery is performed in accredited private hospitals, with hospital fees varying depending on the facility used.
Information about available payment options can be provided on request and discussed during consultation.
In specific clinical circumstances, such as certain congenital breast conditions or reconstructive considerations, Medicare or private health insurance may contribute to some costs. Eligibility varies and must be confirmed with Medicare and your health fund. Any applicable item numbers are discussed during consultation.
For general information about fees, please refer to our costs page.
Post-Surgery Considerations
Outcomes following breast augmentation surgery vary between individuals and may be influenced by factors such as changes in body weight, skin characteristics, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Individual healing responses and longer-term changes are discussed during consultation and reviewed as part of follow-up care. Maintaining realistic expectations is an important part of informed decision-making.
What are the risks of breast augmentation surgery?
If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it is important to be informed about the potential risks, complications and side effects associated with the procedure.
Complications can occur despite appropriate medical care. These risks are discussed in detail during consultation to support informed decision-making.
Potential risks may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to surrounding tissues
- Fluid or blood collection requiring drainage
- Changes in breast or nipple sensation
- Firmness
- Delayed wound healing
- Scarring
- Implant malposition
- Implant rupture
- Capsule formation or capsular contracture
- Rippling or wrinkling of the implant or skin
- An association with Breast Implant–Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)
Results
Surgical photographs are restricted to viewers aged 18 and over. The outcomes shown in any photograph are relevant only to the patient pictured, and individual results will vary. You can view the breast augmentation gallery.
Where Dr Kumar operates
Consultations are held at Westmead, Penrith and Orange. If you live a long way from Sydney, you can send photos to Dr Kumar’s team before your first appointment.
Day-case procedures are performed at Somerset Private Hospital in Kingswood or at Westmead Private Hospital, an accredited Ramsay Health Care hospital.
Dr Kumar’s nurses also work on the wards at Westmead Private Hospital. The nurses who prepare you for surgery are the same ones who look after you at every post-operative review.
Common questions
What type of anaesthesia is used for breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery is performed by Dr Rohit Kumar under general anaesthesia in accredited private hospitals.
Anaesthesia and pain management are overseen by a qualified anaesthetist. Pain management options and post-operative care are discussed prior to surgery and reviewed following the procedure.
What are the different breast implant shapes available?
Two common implant shape categories are used in breast augmentation surgery:
- Anatomical (teardrop) implants – Implants designed with a contoured profile that differs in shape from round implants.
- Round implants – Implants with a uniform shape.
The selection of implant shape is based on individual anatomy, surgical considerations and clinical assessment. Implant options are discussed during consultation to support informed decision-making.
What is the Keller Funnel and why is it used?
The Keller Funnel is a surgical insertion device that may be used during breast augmentation surgery to assist with implant placement.
The use of surgical instruments and techniques, including whether an insertion device is used, depends on individual surgical planning and clinical considerations. This is discussed during consultation.
How are the incisions closed after breast augmentation?
Incision closure following breast augmentation surgery depends on the surgical approach and individual clinical considerations.
Sutures and dressings are used as part of standard surgical closure. The type of sutures and wound care requirements vary between individuals and are discussed following surgery and reviewed during follow-up appointments.
What steps can be taken to minimise pain?
Pain management following breast augmentation surgery is discussed as part of pre-operative planning and post-operative care.
Pain management strategies are overseen by the surgical and anaesthetic team and may include prescribed medications and general post-operative care guidance. Individual experiences vary, and recovery timelines differ between patients.
Post-operative instructions are provided following surgery and reviewed during follow-up appointments.
Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight?
Breast augmentation surgery is often performed as a day procedure, although this depends on individual clinical factors and post-operative assessment.
Where same-day discharge is appropriate, patients are advised to arrange for a responsible adult to accompany them home and remain with them for the first night following surgery. This is discussed as part of pre-operative planning.
Will Breast Implants impact breastfeeding later in life?
The potential impact of breast augmentation surgery on breastfeeding varies between individuals and depends on factors such as surgical approach, incision location and individual anatomy.
Some people are able to breastfeed following breast augmentation surgery, while others may experience challenges. This cannot be predicted with certainty.
Breastfeeding considerations are discussed during consultation so that individual circumstances, future plans and potential risks can be considered as part of informed decision-making.
How long will I need off work?
Most people take about two weeks off work, then gradually return to most activities over the following four weeks. Lifting and exercise are built up after the six-week review, and most patients are cleared for full activity at 12 weeks.
Do I need a GP referral?
Yes. A GP referral is required to see Dr Kumar, and it is also needed for the Medicare rebate on your consultation.
Patient information sheets
Printable information sheets for anyone with breast implants, written by Dr Kumar and given to his breast augmentation patients. Download, print or keep them with your implant details.
Download our Breast Augmentation Guide
Talk it through with Dr Kumar
If you are considering breast augmentation, the first step is an assessment of your chest, breast tissue and goals. Dr Kumar consults in Westmead, Penrith and Orange, and a GP referral is required. You can also download a procedure guide first.
This page is intended as general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. All surgery carries risk, and individual results will vary. Surgical photographs on this website are intended for viewers aged 18 and over. Read more about the risks of surgery here.
Dr Rohit Kumar (MED0001630444) Registered medical practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialist registration in surgery – plastic surgery).
