# Breast Augmentation > Citation bundle for Breast Augmentation on The Treatment Registry. > URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/procedures/breast-augmentation > Bundle URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/api/citations/procedures/breast-augmentation - Category: cosmetic-surgery - Average recovery: 14 days - Typical sessions: 1 - Price range (USD international): $3,000–$8,000 ## Description Breast augmentation involves the placement of silicone or saline implants to increase breast size or restore volume. Fat transfer (lipofilling) is an alternative for modest increases. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes 1-2 hours. Implant placement can be subglandular or submuscular. ## Overview Breast augmentation under general anaesthesia typically takes sixty to ninety minutes. The surgeon creates a pocket either above (subglandular) or below (submuscular or dual-plane) the pectoralis major muscle, accessed through an incision at the inframammary fold, around the areola, or within the axilla. The implant — pre-filled silicone gel, saline-filled, or a structured variant — is inserted into the pocket and positioned symmetrically. The incision is closed in layers and a supportive surgical bra is applied. Candidacy assessment includes evaluation of existing breast tissue volume and ptosis, chest wall anatomy, skin quality, and the patient's aesthetic goals. Patients with significant ptosis may require a concurrent mastopexy (breast lift), which adds surgical complexity and scarring. Submuscular placement is associated with lower capsular contracture rates and more natural appearance in patients with minimal native breast tissue but involves a more involved recovery. Dual-plane placement is a common compromise. Women with a personal or strong family history of breast cancer should discuss screening protocols with their oncologist before proceeding. Initial recovery involves moderate discomfort, particularly with submuscular placement where muscle movement causes pain for one to two weeks. Patients are typically advised to avoid raising the arms above shoulder height and strenuous upper-body activity for four to six weeks. Implants generally settle into their final position over three to six months. Long-term surveillance is recommended, as silicone implant rupture may be silent and detectable only on MRI. ## Peer-reviewed outcome rates - **Complication rate:** 10.00% (range 5.00–15.00%) — from 1 cited source - **Revision rate:** 15.00% (range 10.00–20.00%) — from 2 cited sources ## Common risks - Capsular contracture (hardening of tissue around implant) - Implant rupture or leakage - Changes in nipple or breast sensation - Implant malposition or asymmetry - Infection requiring implant removal - BIA-ALCL (rare lymphoma associated with textured implants) ## FAQs ### How long do breast implants last? Modern silicone and saline implants do not have a fixed expiry date and do not need to be routinely replaced on a set schedule. However, the likelihood of complications such as rupture or capsular contracture increases over time, and many surgeons advise revisiting the question of replacement at ten to fifteen years. ### Will breast implants affect mammograms or cancer screening? Implants can partially obscure breast tissue on standard mammography, so patients should inform the radiographer before each screening appointment. Additional imaging views are used to visualise as much tissue as possible, and MRI may be recommended for monitoring silicone implant integrity. ### What is capsular contracture? Capsular contracture occurs when the natural scar tissue that forms around any implant tightens excessively, causing the breast to feel firm, look distorted, or become painful. It is the most common long-term complication of breast augmentation and may require surgical treatment in more severe cases. ### Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation? Most women can breastfeed after breast augmentation, as the implants are placed below or beside the glandular tissue rather than within it. The periareolar incision approach carries a slightly higher risk of affecting milk ducts; patients concerned about future breastfeeding should discuss incision choice with their surgeon. ### Silicone or saline — which is better? Silicone gel implants are generally considered to have a more natural feel and are the most widely chosen option globally. Saline implants are filled after insertion, allowing a smaller incision, and any rupture is immediately evident as the saline is harmlessly absorbed. The choice depends on individual anatomy, preference, and the surgeon's recommendation. ### Will breast augmentation leave visible scars? All breast augmentation approaches involve incisions that will leave scars. The inframammary (under-breast fold) approach is most common and leaves a scar that is concealed within the crease. Scars typically mature from pink and raised to pale and flat over twelve to eighteen months. ### How soon can I return to exercise after breast augmentation? Light walking is encouraged from the first day to reduce DVT risk, but upper body exercise and anything that engages the chest muscles should be avoided for four to six weeks. High-impact activities such as running are typically cleared at the six-week follow-up appointment. ### Is it safe to fly after breast augmentation? Most surgeons advise avoiding long-haul flights for at least seven to ten days post-operatively due to the elevated DVT risk. If flying is unavoidable, compression stockings and staying well hydrated are essential, and prophylactic anticoagulation should be discussed with the surgical team. ## Alternative treatments - **Fat-transfer breast augmentation** — Implant-free alternative; modest volume increase per session, more natural feel. - **Breast lift (mastopexy)** — Where the concern is sagging rather than volume; can be combined with small implants. - **External pads / well-fitted bra** — Non-surgical management; meaningful for patients wanting to avoid surgical risk. ## Sources - [ASPS — Quality and Health Policy practice parameters](https://www.plasticsurgery.org/for-medical-professionals/quality-and-health-policy) — American Society of Plastic Surgeons (accessed 2026-05-09) - [ISAPS — International Survey on Aesthetic/Cosmetic Procedures](https://www.isaps.org/discover/about-isaps/global-statistics/) — International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (accessed 2026-05-09) - [RCoA — Guidelines for the Provision of Anaesthetic Services (GPAS)](https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/standards-of-clinical-practice) — Royal College of Anaesthetists (accessed 2026-05-09) - [ISAPS — Practice Resources and Position Statements for Aesthetic Surgery](https://www.isaps.org/medical-professionals/practice-resources/) — International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (accessed 2026-06-29) - [WHO Surgical Safety Checklist](https://www.who.int/teams/integrated-health-services/patient-safety/research/safe-surgery) — World Health Organization (accessed 2026-05-09)