Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation may be considered by patients seeking a change in breast size, shape, or upper-pole fullness, or who want to address moderate asymmetry. It is performed using breast implants, fat grafting in selected cases, or a combined hybrid approach.
The procedure does not lift the breast or treat significant breast droop (ptosis). Patients with significant ptosis usually require a breast lift assessment rather than augmentation alone, and patients with developmental breast shape concerns may require tuberous breast assessment. Both of these are addressed separately at the Sydney master pages and require their own consultation pathway.
What is achievable for any individual patient depends on existing anatomy: chest wall shape, breast width, skin elasticity, soft tissue thickness, and nipple position. There are no guaranteed outcomes from breast augmentation, and individual results vary.
How Do I Choose the Right Breast Implants?
Implant selection should be based on tissue-based planning, not on cup size alone. Choosing an implant by cup size or volume in isolation can lead to poor fit, excessive tissue stretch, soft tissue thinning over time, visible implant edges (rippling), or a result that does not match the patient’s frame.
Tissue-based planning considers:
- Breast base width
- Chest wall shape and proportions
- Skin elasticity and stretch capacity
- Existing breast tissue volume and distribution
- Nipple position relative to the inframammary fold
- Soft tissue thickness (which affects implant coverage and edge visibility)
- What you are hoping to address
During your consultation, Dr Turner will measure these factors and recommend implant dimensions (width, projection, profile) that match your anatomy and stated preferences. Sizers may be used to help visualise different volume options.
Implant Decisions at a Glance
| Decision | Options | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | Selected after tissue-based assessment, not by cup size | Matches implant dimensions to chest wall and tissue limits |
| Shape | Round or anatomical (teardrop) | Influences upper-pole fullness and overall breast contour |
| Profile | Low, moderate, high, or extra-high depending on the implant system | Affects projection relative to base width |
| Surface | Smooth, nanotextured, or microtextured depending on the implant system | Relevant to implant behaviour and safety profile |
| Placement | Subglandular, submuscular, or dual plane | Influences soft tissue coverage, breast movement, and recovery |
| Material | Cohesive silicone gel (most cases); saline in selected cases | Influences feel, rupture behaviour, and implant choice |
Breast Implant Size, Shape, Profile and Placement
Implant Size and Profile
Implant size is described by volume in cubic centimetres (cc), but the more clinically relevant figures are width and projection. A 350cc implant in one profile is dimensionally different from a 350cc implant in another profile, and the difference matters for how the implant sits on the chest wall.
Implant Shape
Round implants give relatively uniform fullness across the breast. Anatomical (teardrop) implants are designed with more volume in the lower pole and may suit selected patients with specific anatomy. The choice depends on existing breast shape, chest wall, and what you are hoping to address.
Implant Surface
Implant surfaces include smooth, nanotextured, and microtextured options. Surface type is relevant to implant behaviour, capsular contracture rates, and broader safety discussion. Dr Turner will explain the surfaces currently used in his practice and why a particular surface may or may not be appropriate for your anatomy.
Implant Placement (Pocket)
Implants may be placed:
- Subglandular: Behind the breast tissue and in front of the pectoralis muscle. Less commonly used as a primary option in patients with limited soft tissue coverage.
- Submuscular: Beneath the pectoralis muscle. Provides more soft tissue coverage at the upper pole.
- Dual plane: The upper part of the implant sits beneath the pectoralis muscle and the lower part sits beneath the breast tissue. This is a common contemporary placement that combines coverage at the upper pole with allowing the lower breast tissue to drape over the implant.
The most appropriate placement depends on soft tissue coverage, breast tissue volume, implant choice, and surgical plan.
Hybrid Breast Augmentation
Hybrid breast augmentation combines implants with fat grafting. Fat may be used to improve soft tissue coverage at the upper pole, soften implant edges, or refine contour transitions. It is not suitable for every patient: it requires adequate donor fat, adds operating time, involves a second recovery site (the liposuction donor area), and is not a default option. Suitability is assessed during consultation.
For more detail on the comparison between implants, fat grafting, and hybrid augmentation, see the Breast Implants vs Fat Transfer Canberra guide. For implant choice in greater depth, see Breast Implant Options for Canberra Patients.
Implant Safety and Brand Discussion
Implant safety is discussed during consultation, including implant surface, rupture, capsular contracture, implant malposition, breast implant illness (BII), and BIA-ALCL (a rare lymphoma associated with certain textured implant surfaces).
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. The TGA and FDA both make this point clearly: implants may need replacement or revision in the future due to rupture, capsular contracture, malposition, implant age, aesthetic change, or patient preference. Routine imaging surveillance is recommended.
Implant brands used in Dr Turner’s practice include Motiva, Mentor, and equivalent devices from manufacturers with established safety profiles. The implant selected for any individual patient depends on availability, surface profile, dimensional requirements, and the surgical plan agreed at consultation. The specific implant brand, model, surface, and warranty are confirmed in writing as part of the surgical quote.
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
You may be a suitable candidate for breast augmentation if you have stable health, realistic expectations, and breast or chest wall anatomy that is suited to implant-based augmentation.
Suitable candidates often have:
- A clear understanding of what implant-based augmentation can and cannot achieve
- Stable weight (significant weight change after surgery can alter the result)
- Stable general health
- No active smoking or vaping (or willingness to stop for the required pre- and post-operative period)
- No plans for pregnancy or breastfeeding in the near term
- Adequate soft tissue coverage, or willingness to discuss hybrid options where coverage is borderline
- Willingness to follow post-operative instructions including garment use and activity restriction
When Breast Augmentation May Not Be the Right Procedure
Breast augmentation alone may not be appropriate if your main concern is:
- Significant breast droop (ptosis) requiring a lift rather than volume change
- Tuberous breast features or developmental breast shape concerns
- Active smoking or vaping
- Unstable weight
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding plans in the near term
- Untreated body image concerns or body dysmorphic disorder identified through screening
- Unrealistic expectations regarding scope or longevity of correction
- Medical conditions that increase surgical risk
Suitability is determined during specialist assessment, not before. For more on the importance of consulting with a FRACS-qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon, see FRACS vs Cosmetic Surgeon in Canberra.
Breast Augmentation Consultation at the Campbell Clinic
Dr Turner consults with Canberra patients at the Campbell clinic.
Canberra clinic: G24/6 Provan Street, Campbell ACT 2612 Consultation days: Fridays by appointment Phone: 1300 437 758 Consultation fee: $450 (a partial Medicare rebate may apply with a valid GP referral)
The Canberra clinic is used for consultation, assessment, surgical planning, and selected post-operative follow-up appointments. Surgery is performed in accredited private hospital facilities in Sydney.
The consultation includes breast and chest wall assessment, measurement and tissue-based implant planning, discussion of implant size, shape, profile, surface, and placement, medical history review, explanation of risks and recovery, and planning for the Canberra-to-Sydney surgical pathway.
Patients commonly attend from Canberra, Queanbeyan, Yass, Goulburn, Cooma, and the wider Southern NSW region. Further information for patients travelling for surgery is available on the Out of Town Patients page.
Medical Board and AHPRA Requirements
Cosmetic surgery patients require a careful assessment process. Under Medical Board and AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines (July 2023):
- A referral from your GP or another independent GP or eligible medical specialist is required before consultation
- At least two pre-operative consultations are required with the operating surgeon, with at least one in person
- Patients must not be asked to sign consent forms or pay deposits at the first consultation
- A cooling-off period of at least seven days applies after the second consultation and informed consent before surgery can be booked or a deposit paid
Suitability assessment also includes discussion of motivation and expectations, and screening for body dysmorphic disorder using a validated psychological screening tool. Referral for further independent assessment may be recommended where clinically indicated.
How Surgery Works for Canberra Patients
The Canberra surgical pathway allows patients to consult and complete much of their follow-up locally, with surgery itself performed in Sydney.
The usual process is:
- Initial Canberra consultation. Breast and chest wall assessment, medical history, implant planning discussion, and suitability review at the Campbell clinic.
- Planning and second consultation. Confirmation of the proposed implant plan, sizing discussion (including sizers where appropriate), clinical photography, consent, written quote with itemised implant detail, and travel logistics.
- Sydney surgery. Surgery is performed at an accredited private hospital facility in Sydney.
- Post-operative review. An early review usually takes place in Sydney before you return to Canberra. Standard follow-up is at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 12 months, with later reviews arranged at the Canberra clinic or via telehealth where clinically appropriate.
Canberra patients should plan travel, accommodation, a support person, and time away from work, exercise, and caring responsibilities. For practical planning advice, see Travelling from Canberra to Sydney for Plastic Surgery.
Breast Augmentation Cost Canberra
Breast augmentation cost depends on the surgical plan, implant type, hospital, anaesthetist, procedure duration, and whether fat grafting is included.
As a guide for primary cosmetic breast augmentation:
| Procedure type | Indicative starting price |
|---|---|
| Standard breast augmentation with implants | From approximately $11,000 all-inclusive |
| Hybrid breast augmentation (implants with fat grafting) | From approximately $15,000 all-inclusive |
| Complex augmentation requiring additional planning | Quoted after assessment |
The all-inclusive figures cover the surgeon’s fee, hospital fee, anaesthesia, implants, post-operative garments, and standard follow-up appointments. Items outside the surgical quote include the $450 consultation fee (paid in advance to confirm the appointment) and any pre-operative investigations such as blood tests, mammogram or breast ultrasound where indicated, and ECG if required.
For a full breakdown of what is and is not included, see the Breast Augmentation Cost Canberra 2026 guide.
Your final quote can only be provided after consultation and clinical assessment. An itemised written quote outlines the surgical, hospital, anaesthetic, implant, and post-operative components, including the specific implant brand, model, surface, and warranty. The surgical deposit ($1,000) is only payable after the second consultation and the seven-day cooling-off period.
Cosmetic breast augmentation is generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Rebates may apply only in selected medically indicated circumstances where specific criteria are met. The practice does not endorse, partner with, or recommend any specific loan providers or BNPL services for surgical fees.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Recovery varies depending on implant size, implant placement, whether fat grafting is included, and individual healing.
First 48 Hours
Discomfort, tightness across the chest, and swelling are expected. The post-operative surgical bra is worn day and night. Most patients rest at home with assistance for the first 24 to 48 hours. Some patients may have an overnight hospital stay.
First 1 to 2 Weeks
Tightness, swelling, and altered sensation continue. Sleeping on the back is required during this period. Lifting, pushing, and overhead activity should be avoided. Most patients return to desk-based work after one to two weeks, depending on individual recovery and the type of work involved.
Weeks 3 to 6
Implant settling continues. Light exercise (walking) may be reintroduced first, with structured upper-body activity restricted until cleared. The surgical bra is generally worn for several weeks per Dr Turner’s specific instructions.
Three to Six Months
Implants continue to settle into their final position. Scars continue to mature. Final shape is typically not assessed before three to six months, and scar maturation can take 12 months or longer.
Standard Follow-Up
Reviews are arranged at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 12 months. Where clinically appropriate, later reviews may take place at the Campbell clinic in Canberra or via telehealth. Early post-operative review requirements and any need to return to Sydney will be explained before surgery.
Risks and Complications
All surgery has risks. Breast augmentation risks include bleeding, haematoma, infection, delayed wound healing, visible or widened scars, asymmetry, altered nipple or breast sensation (temporary or permanent), capsular contracture (firm scar tissue around the implant), implant rupture, implant malposition (including bottoming-out, lateralisation, double-bubble), implant rippling or palpability (more common in thin patients or with subglandular placement), rotation (with anatomical implants), and the need for revision surgery over the longer term.
Implant-specific safety considerations include breast implant illness (BII) and BIA-ALCL. These are discussed in detail during consultation alongside the specific implant type recommended for your anatomy.
Risks may be higher in patients who smoke or vape, who have poorly controlled medical conditions, who have unrealistic expectations, or who do not follow post-operative instructions.
Dr Turner will discuss procedure-specific risks, alternatives, limitations, and recovery during consultation so you can make an informed decision. For general information about surgical risk, see Risks and Complications.
About Dr Scott J Turner
Dr Scott J Turner is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon and Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in Plastic Surgery (FRACS), and an AHPRA registered medical practitioner (MED0001654827). He consults with Canberra patients at the Campbell clinic and performs surgery in accredited private hospital facilities in Sydney.
His breast surgery practice includes primary cosmetic breast augmentation with implants, hybrid breast augmentation, breast implant revision, breast lift, breast reduction, breast fat grafting, and tuberous breast correction. Procedures outside primary cosmetic augmentation are assessed at separate consultations and via the relevant Sydney master procedure pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer breast augmentation consultations in Canberra?
Yes. Dr Turner consults with Canberra patients at the Campbell clinic. Surgery is performed in accredited private hospital facilities in Sydney, with selected follow-up available at the Canberra clinic or via telehealth where clinically appropriate.
Is breast augmentation surgery performed in Canberra or Sydney?
Consultations and selected post-operative follow-up appointments are available at the Campbell clinic in Canberra. Surgery is performed in accredited private hospital facilities in Sydney.
How much does breast augmentation cost in Canberra?
Standard breast augmentation with implants starts from approximately $11,000 all-inclusive. Hybrid breast augmentation (implants combined with fat grafting) starts from approximately $15,000 all-inclusive. The all-inclusive figures cover the surgeon’s fee, hospital fee, anaesthesia, implants, post-operative garments, and standard follow-up appointments. The $450 consultation fee and any pre-operative investigations sit outside the surgical quote. A personalised written quote is provided after consultation. The surgical deposit ($1,000) is only payable after the second consultation and the seven-day cooling-off period.
What is the difference between breast augmentation and breast lift?
Breast augmentation changes breast volume and shape using implants or fat grafting. Breast lift repositions the breast and nipple when there is significant droop or skin excess. Some patients need a lift rather than augmentation alone, and some may need a combined procedure. This page covers primary cosmetic augmentation only; breast lift is addressed separately at the Sydney master page.
What implant size is right for me?
Implant size should be selected using tissue-based planning rather than cup size alone. Breast base width, chest wall shape, skin elasticity, existing breast tissue, nipple position, soft tissue thickness, and what you are hoping to address all influence the decision. Sizers may be used during consultation to help visualise different volume options.
What is dual plane breast augmentation?
Dual plane placement positions the upper part of the implant beneath the pectoralis muscle and the lower part beneath the breast tissue. It may provide soft tissue coverage at the upper pole while allowing the lower breast tissue to drape over the implant. It is a common contemporary placement option.
What is hybrid breast augmentation?
Hybrid breast augmentation combines implants with fat grafting in selected patients. Fat may be used to improve soft tissue coverage or refine contour transitions. It is not suitable for every patient: it requires adequate donor fat, adds operating time, and involves a second recovery site (the liposuction donor area).
How long is recovery after breast augmentation?
Initial recovery commonly takes one to two weeks, although swelling, tightness, implant settling, scar maturation, and return to full activity take longer. Most patients return to desk-based work after one to two weeks. Implant settling and scar maturation continue for three to six months, with scar maturation potentially taking 12 months or longer.
Will breast implants need to be replaced?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. They may need replacement or revision in the future due to rupture, capsular contracture, malposition, implant age, aesthetic change, or patient preference. Routine imaging surveillance is recommended. Breast implant revision is assessed at a separate consultation.
Is breast augmentation covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
Cosmetic breast augmentation is generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Rebates may apply only in selected medically indicated circumstances where specific criteria are met.
Can I have breast augmentation if I plan future pregnancy?
Future pregnancy and breastfeeding can change breast size, shape, and skin envelope. Patients planning pregnancy in the near term may be advised to delay surgery depending on their circumstances. This is discussed at consultation.
Do I need a GP referral?
Yes. For cosmetic surgery consultation, a GP referral is required under Medical Board and AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines (July 2023). A partial Medicare rebate may apply to the consultation fee when a valid referral is provided. Referrals are valid for 12 months.
Book a Consultation in Canberra
To arrange a breast augmentation consultation at the Campbell clinic, contact the practice or call 1300 437 758.
Dr Turner consults at the Campbell clinic on Fridays by appointment. Your consultation includes breast and chest wall assessment, tissue-based implant planning, discussion of implant size, shape, profile, surface, and placement, review of risks and recovery, and planning for the Canberra-to-Sydney surgical pathway if surgery is appropriate.
Canberra Clinic: G24/6 Provan Street, Campbell ACT 2612 Phone: 1300 437 758 Email: [email protected] Consultations: Fridays by appointment
Related Breast Procedures and Resources
For deeper information across the cluster:
- Breast Augmentation Sydney master page for the full national procedure detail
- Breast Augmentation Cost Canberra 2026 for full pricing breakdown and what is/is not included
- Breast Implant Options for Canberra Patients for implant size, shape, profile, surface, and placement detail
- Breast Implants vs Fat Transfer Canberra for the implant vs fat vs hybrid comparison
- Breast Augmentation Decision Guide for Canberra Patients for patient-decision content
- Plastic Surgery Prices
- Risks and Complications
If you are also considering facial procedures, low-priority cross-links to the Canberra face cluster include:
