Breast augmentation most frequently involves the insertion of a breast implant however Dr Matt Starr is increasingly using breast fat grafting for breast enlargement and shaping in combination with breast implants or on its own to enhance the breasts.
Breast Implants: Silicone or Saline
Dr Matt Starr uses silicone gel implants. Silicone breast implants feel more natural, have fewer aesthetic concerns such as rippling and last longer than saline implants (silicone outer layer filled with saltwater). The silicone implants he uses have cohesive gel, sometimes called gummy bear implants because of how the gel sticks together. Older generation silicone implants had a liquid silicone gel with a consistency more like honey. Cohesive gel implants tend to still stay together even with implant rupture and there is a reduction in problems such as silicone migration and extracapsular spread.
Different implant types have different risk profile and performance benefits. At your consultation implant selection is based on a discussion to balance these risks and benefits in reference to your individual requirements.
Your breast augmentation consultation
The outcome of breast enlargement surgery can be something that patients find exciting and rewarding however it is always important to understand that this is real surgery with real risks and an anticipated recovery period. The outcome of surgery will depend upon the best plan being created, a technically well-performed procedure and a patient following the post-operative instructions to minimise the risk of problems.
To develop the best operative plan for you we will need to determine the optimal breast size according to what you already have and what you wish to achieve. We will need to determine the best incision and the best pocket for the implant as well as evaluating whether additional procedures such as a mastopexy authentic grafting may be required to maximise the outcome.
In addition to these elements relating to your breast, we will need to explore your medical history including prior breast surgery or problems with other operations. Photographs are routinely taken prior to your consultation and form an integral part of your confidential medical record.
Photographs make a very useful tool during the consultation to compare outcomes from other patients with achievable results for you. Photographs are not seen by others outside the clinical team under any circumstances without your express consent.
How much does breast augmentation cost?
It isn’t always possible to obtain an accurate cost for breast augmentation surgery without scheduling a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon such as Dr Matt Starr. There are several factors that contribute to the overall cost. While the surgical cost from Dr Matt Starr is consistent, other charges vary including the anaesthetist, hospital and breast implants. Many patients choose to combine augmentation with other procedures such as a breast lift or fat grafting, which can also impact the final cost of the surgery. Since breast augmentation is usually purely cosmetic, patients will not be able to apply for a Medicare rebate. However, if augmentation is required following a mastectomy, tuberous breast deformity or significant asymmetry, both private health insurers and Medicare may cover a some of the costs. Dr Matt Starr can hep determine if there will be a rebate from Medicare/Health Fund for your surgery – the rest of the costs will need to come out of your own pocket.
