Every breast implant available in Australia is described by four things: shape, surface, fill and profile. Between them they cover almost every choice you will be asked to make, and most of the choice is made by your anatomy rather than by preference.
All implants supplied here must be included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. Your implant details, including the manufacturer and serial numbers, are recorded and given to you after surgery, and are also reported to the Australian Breast Device Registry unless you opt out.
The four variables
| Variable | Options | What it changes |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Round or anatomical (teardrop) | Distribution of volume between upper and lower pole |
| Surface | Smooth, or textured to varying degrees | How the implant interacts with the capsule; relevant to rotation and to risk profile |
| Fill | Silicone gel of varying cohesivity, or saline | Feel, behaviour if the shell fails, and how the implant holds shape |
| Profile | Low through to extra high | How far the implant projects forward at a given base width |
Round or anatomical
A round implant distributes volume evenly and cannot look wrong if it rotates, because it is the same all the way round. An anatomical implant carries more of its volume low, which some patients prefer, but it must stay oriented — rotation changes the shape of the breast and is a recognised reason for revision.
In practice, a round implant in a well-made pocket produces a natural lower pole in most patients, particularly under the muscle as a dual plane. Dr Kumar will tell you which he recommends for your tissue and why.
Surface, and why it is discussed more than it used to be
Implant surface is the variable that has changed most in the last decade. Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma — BIA-ALCL — is a rare cancer of the immune system that develops in the capsule around an implant, and the association has been chiefly with textured devices. Some textured implants have been removed from the Australian market as a result.
This is a conversation to have properly rather than in passing. Dr Kumar has a dedicated page on BIA-ALCL, and the Therapeutic Goods Administration maintains a breast implant hub for consumers.
Silicone or saline
Modern silicone gel is cohesive — it holds together rather than running — and most patients find it feels closer to breast tissue. Saline implants are filled after insertion, so a smaller incision is possible, and a leak is obvious because the breast deflates. The trade is feel and a greater tendency to ripple. Silicone is the usual choice in Australian practice.
A silicone shell failure is not always obvious, which is why follow-up and, where indicated, imaging matter. Signs of a ruptured implant.
Profile is how size is added
Once your breast base width is measured, the implant width is largely fixed. Extra volume is then achieved by choosing a higher profile, which projects further forward. This is why two patients with the same cubic centimetres can look quite different. See choosing implant size.
Common questions
Which brand does Dr Kumar use? He selects the device to suit the patient and the technique. The Preservé technique he is trained in requires one particular implant type — explained here.
Do textured implants still get used? Some textured devices remain available and some have been withdrawn. Which device is proposed for you, and why, should be part of your consent discussion.
How long do they last? There is no fixed lifespan and no requirement to replace on a schedule. When implants need replacing.
Will I get a record of what was used? Yes — implant cards with manufacturer and serial numbers. Keep them.
Can I change type later? Yes, at revision surgery. Implant replacement.
Next step
Which implant suits you follows from measurement, tissue cover and what you want the result to do. Bring a GP referral — it is required to see Dr Kumar. Call 1300 267 726. More about breast augmentation and its risks.
The initial consultation with Dr Kumar is $400, with a Medicare rebate of approximately $88 where you have a GP referral. Surgical fees are quoted individually after your consultation, in a written itemised quote.
All surgery carries risks, and individual results will vary. Read more about the risks of surgery here. A GP referral is required to see Dr Kumar.
Dr Rohit Kumar (MED0001630444) Registered medical practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialist registration in surgery – plastic surgery).
