Breast Augmentation
In Singapore

Dissatisfied with your current breast size or shape? Asymmetrical breasts causing distress? Loss of volume due to aging, weight loss, or pregnancy? Speak to us to learn more about your options.

Dr Jesse Hu
Senior Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery
Dr Felicia Tan Li Sher
Director, Senior Consultant General Surgeon

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. This is achieved through the placement of breast implants, which can be made from various materials and come in different shapes and sizes.

Reasons for Considering Breast Augmentation

Women may consider breast augmentation for various reasons, including:

Some may feel self-conscious or dissatisfied with their natural breast size, shape, or symmetry. Breast augmentation can help create a more balanced and proportionate appearance, which can lead to increased self-confidence and an improved body image.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause significant changes in breast size and shape. Many women choose breast augmentation to restore their pre-pregnancy breast appearance or to achieve a more youthful and uplifted look.

After significant weight loss, breasts may lose volume and become saggy or deflated. Breast augmentation can help restore fullness and improve overall breast contour.

Some women may have naturally asymmetrical breasts, with one breast being noticeably larger or differently shaped than the other. Breast augmentation can be used to restore symmetry and balance to the breast appearance.

Types of Breast Implants and Surgical Techniques

There are several types of breast implants and surgical techniques available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Familiarize yourself with these options to make an informed decision about which is best for you.

Types of Breast Implants

  • Silicone gel implants: These are the most popular type of breast implant, made of a silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Known for their natural look and feel, as the gel closely mimics the consistency of natural breast tissue. Silicone gel implants come in various shapes, sizes, and profiles to suit individual preferences and body types.
  • Saline implants: Saline implants also have a silicone shell but are filled with a sterile saline solution instead of silicone gel. They can be adjusted more easily than silicone implants, as the surgeon can adjust the volume of saline during the procedure to achieve the desired size and shape. May feel less natural and be more prone to visible rippling or wrinkling than silicone implants.
  • Structured saline implants: These have an internal structure designed to maintain a more natural shape and feel, similar to silicone gel implants. The structure also reduces the risk of rippling and wrinkling that can occur with traditional saline implants.
  • Gummy bear implants: Also known as form-stable or highly cohesive silicone gel implants, these implants are made of a thicker silicone gel that maintains its shape better than traditional silicone gel implants. They offer a more natural feel and are less likely to ripple, wrinkle or leak. May require a slightly larger incision due to their firmer consistency.

Surgical Techniques

  • Incision location: The surgeon can make the incision in various locations, including under the breast fold (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice of incision location depends on factors such as the type of implant, the patient’s anatomy, and personal preference.
  • Implant placement: Implants can be placed either above (subglandular) or below (submuscular) the pectoral muscle. Subglandular placement may result in a more natural appearance and faster recovery but has a higher risk of visible implant edges and rippling. Submuscular placement provides more coverage and support for the implant, reducing the risk of rippling and implant visibility but may result in a longer recovery period.
  • Implant shape and profile: Implants come in various shapes (round or anatomical/teardrop) and profiles (low, moderate, or high). The choice of shape and profile depends on the patient’s desired breast appearance and natural anatomy.

Preparing for Your Breast Augmentation Consultation

  • Make a list of your goals and expectations: Think about what you want to achieve with breast augmentation, including your desired breast size, shape, and overall appearance. Be realistic about your expectations and consider how the procedure will affect your lifestyle and daily activities.
  • Gather relevant medical history: Your surgeon will need to know about any medical conditions, medications, allergies, and previous surgeries to assess your suitability for breast augmentation. Make a list of this information in advance to save time during the consultation.
  • Research different types of implants and surgical techniques: Familiarize yourself with the various implant options and surgical techniques available so you can discuss these with your surgeon and make an informed decision.
  • Prepare a list of questions: Write down any questions or concerns you have about breast augmentation, including risks, recovery, costs, and the surgeon’s experience. This ensures you don’t forget anything important during the consultation.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation, and usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity and the specific surgical technique used. Here’s an overview of the breast augmentation procedure:

  • Anaesthesia: Your surgeon will administer anaesthesia during the procedure. You will be asleep and unable to feel any pain.
  • Incisions: The surgeon will make the necessary incisions, taking care to minimize scarring and ensure the best possible aesthetic outcome. The location of the incisions will depend on the type of implant, the patient’s anatomy, and personal preference.
  • Implant placement: Next, the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant, either above or below the pectoral muscle, depending on the chosen technique. The implant is then inserted into the pocket and positioned for optimal symmetry and appearance.
  • Closing the incisions: Finally, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures, surgical tape, or adhesive, and apply a dressing to protect the area and minimize swelling.

Recovery and Aftercare Following Breast Augmentation

Recovery from breast augmentation varies depending on the individual and the specific surgical technique used. Here are some general guidelines and tips for a smooth and successful recovery:

  • Rest and relaxation: Give your body time to heal after surgery. Plan to take at least 1-2 weeks off work and arrange for help with household chores and childcare, if necessary. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for at least 4-6 weeks, or as advised by your surgeon.
  • Care for your incisions: Keep your incisions clean and dry, and follow your surgeon’s instructions for changing dressings and applying any prescribed ointments or creams. Avoid exposing the incisions to sunlight, as this can cause darkening and increased visibility of scars.
  • Wear a supportive bra: Your surgeon will likely recommend wearing a surgical or sports bra for several weeks following surgery to provide support and minimize swelling. Wear the bra as directed to ensure optimal healing and results.
  • Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

 

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications. While complications are relatively rare, it’s important to be aware of them and discuss them with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

  • Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms may include fever, pain, and redness.
  • Capsular contracture: A condition where the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and compresses the implant, causing pain, hardness, and distortion of the breast shape. Additional surgery may be required to correct the problem.
  • Implant rupture or leakage: Implants may rupture or leak over time, leading to changes in breast shape and size. Surgery may be required to remove or replace the implant.
  • Changes in nipple sensation: Breast augmentation can sometimes cause temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, including numbness or hypersensitivity.
  • Asymmetry: While breast augmentation aims to create symmetry, some degree of asymmetry may occur, especially if the patient had pre-existing asymmetry.
  • General surgical risks: Breast augmentation carries the same risks as any other surgical procedure, including bleeding, scarring, and anaesthesia-related complications.

Discuss these potential risks and complications with your surgeon and follow all post-operative instructions to minimize the risk of complications.

Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Breast Augmentation

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a surgeon for your procedure:

Experience

Look for a surgeon who is experienced in performing breast augmentation and has a track record of successful outcomes.

Patient reviews and testimonials

Check Google reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon’s communication style, bedside manner, and overall patient satisfaction.

Before and after photos

Ask to see before and after photos of the surgeon’s previous breast augmentation patients to assess their results and determine if their aesthetic style aligns with your goals.

Comfort level

You should feel comfortable and confident with your surgeon and their team. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and concerns and get a sense of the surgeon’s approach and communication style.

Considering breast augmentation in Singapore?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our specialist. We can answer your questions, discuss your goals, and help you achieve the breasts you’ve always wanted.

MAKE AN ENQUIRY

Dr Jesse Hu

Senior Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Dr Jesse specialises in managing both benign and malignant breast and thyroid conditions, which also includes breast pain, breast lumps, breastfeeding problems, neck lumps, amongst others.

Her dual expertise in cancer removal and plastic surgery techniques expands the design of individualized treatments, leading to holistic patient outcomes.

Dr Jesse was part of the teaching faculties of both NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of medical students and trainee doctors.

  • Surgical training at NUS School of Medicine
  • FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) Edinburgh, UK in 2014
  • Completed 2 Health Manpower Development Program (HMDP) fellowships at Oxford University Hospital, UK in 2016

Dr Jesse is recognized as an authority in breast cancer and thyroid surgery and a sought-after conference speaker.

Read Full Bio

Dr Felicia Tan Li Sher

Director, Senior Consultant General Surgeon

Dr Felicia is actively involved in promoting breast cancer awareness. She has also been invited to give lectures and public talks on breast cancer related issues both locally and internationally.

Her clinical interest lies in treatment of breast cancer and the use of various surgical techniques to achieve the best oncologic and cosmetic outcome for her patients.

She is the pioneer of the procedure radioisotope occult lesion localisation (ROLL) in Singapore – which is used for locating non-palpable breast lesions and micro-calcifications for surgical excision.

  • Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery from the National University of Singapore
  • RCSEd (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh)
  • Post-graduate training as a General Surgeon at NCC and SGH, subspecializing in breast surgery.

She is also adept with the whole range of breast surgical procedures including vacuum assisted biopsies and endoscopic (key-hole) breast surgery for breast lesions.

 

Read Full Bio

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    Breast Augmentation In Singapore

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    How long do breast implants last?

    Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices and may need to be replaced or removed at some point. The lifespan of an implant varies depending on factors such as implant type, surgical technique, and individual circumstances.

    When can I return to work after breast augmentation?

    Most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks after surgery, depending on the nature of their job and the specific surgical technique used.

    Will breast augmentation affect my ability to breastfeed?

    Breast augmentation may or may not affect breastfeeding, depending on the surgical technique and the implant placement. Discuss any concerns you have about breastfeeding with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

    Will breast implants affect mammograms or breast cancer detection?

    Breast implants may make it slightly more challenging to detect breast cancer on mammograms, but specialized techniques can be used to ensure accurate results.

    Can breast implants be removed or revised?

    Yes, breast implants can be removed or revised if necessary. Revision surgery may be required to correct complications or achieve desired results.

    Can I exercise after breast augmentation?

    Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks after breast augmentation, but light exercise such as walking is encouraged to promote healing and prevent blood clots.

    Will breast augmentation scars be visible?

    While every effort is made to minimize scarring, some minimal scarring is inevitable after breast augmentation. The location and extent of scarring depend on the surgical technique and incision site.