Quick Answer
Breast augmentation in New Zealand costs $12,000-$18,000 depending on implant type, takes 1-2 hours under general anesthesia, and requires 1-2 weeks initial recovery with final results at 3-6 months. Choose a FRACS-qualified plastic surgeon with 200+ breast augmentations annually and membership in NZAPS. Success rate is 90-95% with patient satisfaction of 85-90% when proper implant selection and surgical technique are used.
Breast Augmentation in New Zealand
Comprehensive guide to breast enlargement surgery - costs, implant types, recovery, risks, and choosing the best surgeon for natural, lasting results
Key Takeaways
- Cost Range: Breast augmentation in NZ costs $12,000-$18,000 varying by implant type. Saline $12,000-$14,000, silicone $14,000-$16,000, gummy bear $16,000-$18,000. Includes surgeon fees ($3,000-$5,000), anesthetist ($1,500-$2,000), facility ($2,000-$3,000), and implants ($2,000-$4,000).
- Recovery Timeline: Initial healing 1-2 weeks with return to desk work at 5-7 days, light exercise at 4 weeks, full activity at 6 weeks. Swelling decreases over 3 months with final breast shape and position settling at 3-6 months.
- Surgeon Qualifications: Choose FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery, performing 200+ augmentations annually, offering multiple implant brands (Mentor, Motiva, Allergan), 3D imaging technology, and membership in NZAPS or ASPS.
- Implant Options: Three main types - saline (firmest, deflates visibly if ruptured), silicone cohesive gel (natural feel, most popular), gummy bear/form-stable (holds shape best, lowest rupture rate). Placement options include submuscular (under muscle - more natural, less rippling) or subglandular (over muscle - easier recovery).
- Implant Longevity: Not lifetime devices - average lifespan 10-20 years. Expect at least one revision surgery in lifetime. Annual monitoring required with MRI every 2-3 years for silicone implants to detect silent ruptures. Revision rate is 10-20% over 10 years.
- Best Candidates: Good overall health, realistic expectations, finished breast development (age 18+), stable weight, non-smokers, understanding that implants require monitoring and eventual replacement, and acceptance of potential complications including capsular contracture and revision surgery.
Breast Augmentation Cost in New Zealand
Cost by Implant Type
Sterile saltwater fill, firmer feel, deflates visibly if ruptures
Most popular, natural feel, maintains shape well
Highly cohesive, best shape retention, lowest rupture rate
Cost Breakdown Components
- Surgeon's fee ($3,000-$5,000)
- Anesthesiologist fee ($1,500-$2,000)
- Facility/hospital fee ($2,000-$3,000)
- Breast implants ($2,000-$4,000)
- Surgical bras ($100-$200)
- Pre-operative tests & consultations
- Post-operative medications & follow-ups
Payment Options & Insurance
- Most clinics offer payment plans through Q Card, Gem Visa, or in-house financing with 6-24 month terms and interest-free periods available
- Cosmetic breast augmentation is not covered by public healthcare or private insurance - considered elective aesthetic surgery
- Reconstructive augmentation after mastectomy may be partially covered by insurance with medical documentation
- Budget for future revision costs ($8,000-$15,000) - implants require monitoring and eventual replacement over lifetime
Breast Augmentation Procedure Details
Duration
1-2 hours depending on complexity. Submuscular placement takes slightly longer (1.5-2 hours) than subglandular (1-1.5 hours).
Anesthesia
General anesthesia (fully asleep) is standard for breast augmentation for patient comfort and surgical precision during implant placement.
Hospital Stay
Outpatient procedure - go home same day after 2-4 hours in recovery. Overnight stay rarely needed unless combined with other procedures.
Before Breast Augmentation: Preparation Guide
8 Weeks Before Surgery
- Stop smoking completely - nicotine severely impairs wound healing and increases capsular contracture risk by 300%. Must quit 8 weeks before and after surgery
- Assess birth control use - discuss with surgeon if you take hormonal birth control or HRT. May need to discontinue 4 weeks before if high blood clot risk
- Purchase front-zip surgical bras - buy 2-3 high-quality front-closure surgical/sports bras in your predicted post-surgery size (surgeon will advise)
- Arrange help for recovery - you'll need someone to drive you home, stay first 24-48 hours, and help with basic tasks for 3-5 days (childcare, cooking, reaching overhead)
2 Weeks Before Surgery
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications/supplements - stop aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo, garlic, ginger supplements (get surgeon approval first)
- Map breast sensation before surgery - gently massage breasts daily to understand current sensation patterns. Helps you notice post-op changes and assists with implant settling
- Stock soft foods and easy meals - prepare freezer meals, stock protein shakes, soft foods, plenty of water (arm movements limited first few days)
- Complete medical clearance - blood work, mammogram if over 35 or family history, EKG if indicated, medical clearance from primary doctor
Day Before & Day of Surgery
- Fast appropriately - no food or drink (including water, gum, mints) for 8+ hours before surgery time to prevent anesthesia complications
- Shower with antibacterial soap - wash chest/breast area thoroughly night before and morning of surgery with provided surgical soap (chlorhexidine)
- Wear comfortable clothing - loose button-up or zip-up top (nothing pulled over head), elastic-waist pants, slip-on shoes, bring front-zip surgical bra
- Remove all jewelry, makeup, nail polish - especially from chest, hands, feet so medical team can monitor circulation and oxygen levels
- Bring required items - photo ID, insurance cards, list of medications, front-zip surgical bra, comfortable pillow for car ride home
After Breast Augmentation: Recovery & Care Instructions
First 48 Hours (Critical Period)
- Wear surgical bra 24/7 - keep front-zip surgical bra on continuously for first 6 weeks (except showering after cleared). Provides support and helps implants settle properly
- Sleep elevated on back only - use wedge pillow or multiple pillows to sleep at 30-45 degree angle. No side or stomach sleeping for 4 weeks minimum
- Take pain medication as prescribed - expect moderate to significant discomfort (4-7/10), especially with submuscular placement. Stay ahead of pain
- Avoid lifting arms above shoulders - no reaching overhead, lifting over 5 pounds, or pushing/pulling. Someone must help with basic tasks (washing hair, dressing)
- Walk gently every 2-3 hours - short walks to prevent blood clots, but avoid overexertion. Rest frequently
First 2 Weeks
- Continue strict arm movement restrictions - no lifting over 5 pounds for 4 weeks, gradual return to overhead reaching at 2-3 weeks with surgeon approval
- Shower carefully once cleared - usually approved at 48-72 hours. Pat incisions dry gently, avoid direct water pressure on breasts, reapply surgical bra immediately
- Start scar massage at week 3 - once incisions fully closed and surgeon approves, gently massage scars with silicone gel or vitamin E to improve appearance
- Begin breast massage protocol if prescribed - some surgeons recommend implant displacement exercises starting week 1-2. Follow your surgeon's specific protocol exactly
- Return to desk work at 5-7 days - can return to non-physical work when pain is manageable with OTC medication and you can focus
Ongoing Care (Weeks 3-12 and Beyond)
- Gradually return to exercise - light walking weeks 1-2, lower body exercise week 4, upper body exercise week 6-8, high-impact/contact sports after 3 months with surgeon approval
- Transition to underwire bras only after 3 months - wear surgical/sports bras for 6-12 weeks, then soft cup bras, finally underwire after 3 months when implants fully settled
- Monitor for capsular contracture - watch for unusual firmness, tightness, asymmetry, shape distortion, or pain. Report immediately to surgeon if suspected
- Update mammogram protocol - inform mammography technicians you have implants. Requires specialized views (Eklund technique). Continue annual screening as recommended
- Keep implant cards for airport security and MRI - carry implant identification cards. Inform MRI technicians you have breast implants before any MRI scan
- Attend all follow-up appointments - typically at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, then annually for implant monitoring
- Schedule MRI monitoring for silicone implants - FDA recommends MRI at 5-6 years post-surgery, then every 2-3 years to detect silent ruptures
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Days 1-7: Early Recovery Phase
The most challenging period with significant pain, especially with submuscular placement. Limited arm movement and dependence on help.
What You'll Experience:
- • Moderate to severe pain (4-7/10), worse with muscle movement
- • Tightness and pressure across chest
- • Breasts appear swollen, high, and unnaturally positioned
- • Limited arm mobility - cannot reach overhead
- • Bruising around breasts and ribcage
- • Difficulty sleeping due to back-only position requirement
- • Need assistance with dressing, showering, basic tasks
Milestones:
- • Day 2-3: Peak swelling and discomfort
- • Day 3-5: Cleared for careful showering
- • Day 5-7: Transition to OTC pain medication
- • Day 5-7: Return to desk work possible
- • Week 1: First follow-up appointment, incision check
Weeks 2-6: Active Settling Phase
Implants begin dropping into natural position (bottoming out). Pain decreases significantly. Gradual return to activities.
What You'll Experience:
- • Pain reduces to mild discomfort (1-3/10)
- • Implants gradually drop from high position
- • Swelling decreases by 60-70%
- • Breasts soften and feel more natural
- • Increased arm mobility and independence
- • Residual numbness in nipples/breast (temporary)
- • Occasional sharp twinges or "zingers" (nerve regeneration)
Milestones:
- • Week 2: Gradual arm movement restoration begins
- • Week 3: Begin scar massage protocol
- • Week 4: Light exercise approved (walking)
- • Week 6: Upper body exercise approved
- • Week 6: Surgical bra can be discontinued
Months 3-6: Final Settling & Results
Implants settle into final position. Swelling fully resolves. Scars mature. Final breast shape and appearance emerges.
What You'll Experience:
- • No pain or discomfort in normal activities
- • Implants fully dropped into natural position
- • Breasts feel soft, natural, and proportional
- • 90-95% of swelling resolved
- • Scars fading from red/pink to light lines
- • Sensation returning (may take 12-18 months)
- • Final breast size and shape established
Milestones:
- • Month 3: Can wear underwire bras
- • Month 3: 80% of final result visible
- • Month 3: Resume high-impact sports/contact activities
- • Month 6: 95% of final result visible
- • Month 6: Scars 80% faded, continue improving to 18 months
- • Enjoying final results and improved confidence
Risks & Complications of Breast Augmentation
While breast augmentation is generally safe with experienced surgeons, all surgery carries risks. Breast implants are medical devices that require ongoing monitoring and eventual replacement.
Common Risks (5-30% of cases)
- Nipple/breast sensitivity changes (30%) - Temporary numbness, hypersensitivity, or decreased sensation is common for 6-12 months. Permanent changes occur in 10-15% (usually mild). Periareolar incision has highest risk.
- Swelling and bruising (2-4 weeks) - Universal after surgery. Peaks at days 2-3, resolves 80% by week 3-4. Some residual swelling persists 3-6 months. Worse with submuscular placement.
- Minor asymmetry - Perfect symmetry is impossible. Most women have pre-existing asymmetry that surgery can't completely eliminate. Minor differences in breast shape, size, or position are common.
- Rippling (thin patients) - Implant edges or waves visible/palpable through skin. More common with saline implants, subglandular placement, or insufficient breast tissue coverage. Gummy bear implants have lowest rippling rates.
Serious Complications (Rare to Moderate Risk)
- Capsular contracture (10-15%) - Scar tissue around implant hardens, causing firmness, distortion, pain. Most common complication requiring revision. Risk increases over time. Submuscular placement reduces risk to 5-10%.
- Implant rupture/deflation (1-2%/year cumulative) - Saline deflates visibly and harmlessly (body absorbs). Silicone ruptures are "silent" - require MRI detection, may cause lumps/pain. Risk increases with implant age. Requires replacement surgery.
- Infection (1-2%) - Early infection (within weeks) presents with fever, redness, pain, requires antibiotics or implant removal. Late infection (months/years) requires implant removal. Periareolar incision has slightly higher infection risk.
- Hematoma/seroma (2-4%) - Blood (hematoma) or fluid (seroma) collection requiring drainage. Most occur within first week. May require return to OR for surgical drainage if large.
Other Potential Complications
- Permanent sensation loss (3-5%) - Complete or significant permanent nipple/breast numbness
- Double bubble/implant malposition (2-5%) - Implant sits too high, too low, or laterally displaced requiring revision
- Bottoming out - Implant drops too low, excessive lower pole fullness, high nipple position
- BIA-ALCL (extremely rare) - Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, linked to textured implants (not smooth)
Minimizing Risks: Choose board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive breast augmentation experience (200+ procedures); follow all pre/post-operative protocols meticulously; attend annual monitoring appointments; get MRI every 2-3 years for silicone implants; report unusual symptoms immediately (hardening, pain, shape change, fever); consider submuscular placement to reduce capsular contracture; choose smooth implants over textured to eliminate BIA-ALCL risk.
How to Choose the Best Breast Augmentation Surgeon
Breast augmentation requires artistry, precision, and extensive experience. Your surgeon choice is the single most important factor in achieving natural, safe, and lasting results.
1. Verify Surgical Credentials & Board Certification
- FRACS certification in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - ensures comprehensive surgical training
- NZAPS membership (New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons) - indicates adherence to professional standards
- Registration with Medical Council of New Zealand with clean disciplinary record
- Membership in international societies: ASPS, ASAPS, ISAPS shows ongoing education commitment
2. Assess Breast Surgery Specialization & Volume
- Performs 200+ breast augmentations annually - high volume indicates refined technique and consistent results
- 10+ years experience specifically in breast augmentation - experience directly correlates with complication reduction
- Breast surgery represents significant portion of practice (40%+ of procedures), not just occasional add-on
- Offers multiple implant brand options (Mentor, Motiva, Allergan) - not limited to single manufacturer
3. Evaluate Technology & Consultation Process
- 3D imaging technology available - Vectra or Crisalix systems help visualize potential outcomes (not guarantees, but helpful planning tools)
- Comprehensive sizing consultation - uses sizers in bras, takes measurements (base width, chest wall, existing breast tissue), discusses lifestyle factors
- Spends adequate consultation time (45+ minutes) discussing implant options, placement, incision locations, realistic expectations
- Thoroughly discusses risks and limitations - capsular contracture, need for future replacement, monitoring requirements, revision possibilities
4. Review Before/After Results & Patient Outcomes
- Extensive photo gallery with patients similar to your body type, breast size, chest anatomy, and aesthetic goals
- Results look natural and proportional - avoid surgeons with overly large, unnatural-looking results
- Patient reviews (4.7+ stars) mentioning results satisfaction, recovery support, communication, complication management
- Ask about capsular contracture and revision rates - experienced surgeons track outcomes and are transparent about statistics
5. Confirm Safety Standards & Surgical Facility
- Surgery performed in accredited hospital or surgical facility with full emergency equipment and protocols
- Board-certified anesthesiologist administering general anesthesia (not nurse anesthetist alone or surgeon-administered sedation)
- Clear revision policy - some surgeons offer discounted/free revision for capsular contracture or malposition within first 1-2 years
- Transparent all-inclusive pricing - written quote with all fees itemized, implant warranty information provided
Red Flags to Avoid:
- • Promises specific cup size or "perfect" results - outcomes vary by anatomy
- • Pressure to choose larger implants than you're comfortable with
- • Limited to only one implant brand or type - should offer options
- • No 3D imaging or sizer trial during consultation
- • Heavily discounted pricing or "limited time offers" - quality surgery isn't discounted
- • Poor online reviews mentioning capsular contracture, asymmetry, or communication issues
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast augmentation cost in New Zealand?
Breast augmentation in New Zealand costs between $12,000 and $18,000. The price varies by implant type: saline implants cost $12,000-$14,000, silicone (cohesive gel) implants cost $14,000-$16,000, and gummy bear (highly cohesive) implants cost $16,000-$18,000. This includes surgeon's fees ($3,000-$5,000), anesthesiologist ($1,500-$2,000), facility fees ($2,000-$3,000), implants ($2,000-$4,000), and post-operative garments. Most clinics offer payment plans through Q Card, Gem Visa, or in-house financing.
What are the differences between saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants?
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater, feel firmer, show rippling more (especially in thin patients), but deflate visibly if they rupture. Silicone (cohesive gel) implants feel more natural, have less rippling, maintain shape better, but require MRI monitoring for silent ruptures. Gummy bear (highly cohesive/form-stable) implants hold their shape best, have lowest rupture rates, look most natural, resist rippling, but require larger incisions and precise positioning. Most patients choose silicone or gummy bear for the most natural feel and appearance.
Which incision location is best for breast augmentation?
The three main incision locations are: Inframammary (breast fold crease) - most common, easiest access, well-hidden scar, allows all implant types, 4-5cm scar. Periareolar (around nipple) - good for simultaneous lift, scar blends with areola edge, slightly higher infection/sensation risk, 3-4cm scar. Transaxillary (armpit) - no breast scarring, more complex technique, limited to saline or smooth implants, harder revisions. Inframammary is gold standard for most patients - excellent access, low complication rates, hidden in natural crease.
Should implants go over or under the muscle?
Submuscular (under pectoralis muscle) is recommended for most patients - provides better implant coverage (less rippling), more natural upper pole, lower capsular contracture rates (5-10% vs 15-20%), easier mammograms. Recovery is more painful with muscle manipulation. Subglandular (over muscle, under breast tissue) offers easier recovery, more cleavage, better for bodybuilders, but higher rippling/visibility risk in thin patients and higher contracture rates. Dual plane (partial submuscular) combines benefits - upper pole coverage with natural lower breast. Your surgeon recommends based on breast tissue thickness, chest wall anatomy, and activity level.
How do I choose the right implant size?
Choosing implant size involves multiple factors: Base width must match your chest dimensions (measured by surgeon). Volume (cc's) determines projection - typically 200-400cc adds 1-2 cup sizes. Try sizers in surgical bras during consultations. Consider lifestyle (active vs sedentary), body frame, existing breast tissue, aesthetic goals (natural vs dramatic). 3D imaging helps visualize outcomes but isn't a guarantee. Most patients choose 300-400cc for balanced, proportional results. Avoid going too large - can cause back pain, shoulder grooving, implant complications, and often requires revision to downsize later.
How long do breast implants last?
Modern breast implants are not lifetime devices. Average lifespan is 10-20 years, but many last longer. Factors affecting longevity include implant type (gummy bear lasts longest), placement, your age at surgery, lifestyle, and manufacturer quality. You'll likely need at least one revision surgery in your lifetime for implant replacement, size change, or complications. Annual monitoring is recommended - self-exams monthly, surgeon exam yearly, MRI every 2-3 years for silicone implants to detect silent ruptures. Budget for future revision costs ($8,000-$15,000) when planning augmentation.
What are revision rates for breast augmentation?
Revision rates are 10-20% within 10 years. Common reasons include: Capsular contracture (5-15%), implant rupture/deflation (1-2% per year cumulative), size change desire (patient preference), asymmetry correction, rippling/visibility, implant malposition, and bottoming out. Choosing experienced surgeons, following post-op protocols, proper implant selection, and submuscular placement reduce revision risk. Some revisions are preventable (poor surgical technique, wrong size), others are unavoidable (normal aging, capsular contracture). Discuss surgeon's revision policy - some offer discounted/free revisions within first year for surgical complications.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Yes, most women can breastfeed after breast augmentation, but success rates vary by incision location. Inframammary (breast fold) incision preserves milk ducts and nerves - 85-90% successful breastfeeding. Periareolar (around nipple) incision has higher risk of duct/nerve damage - 60-75% success rate. Implant placement doesn't significantly affect breastfeeding (submuscular vs subglandular). No evidence that breast implants harm babies or milk quality. Some women experience reduced milk supply due to surgical trauma, scarring, or pre-existing insufficient glandular tissue. Discuss breastfeeding plans with surgeon to optimize incision choice if future pregnancy is planned.
Related Procedures
Breast Lift
Mastopexy to lift sagging breasts, often combined with augmentation
Breast Reduction
Reduction mammaplasty to decrease breast size and alleviate pain
Fat Transfer
Natural breast augmentation using your own fat tissue
Revision Surgery
Implant replacement, removal, or correction of complications
Find Breast Augmentation Surgeons in Your City
Ready to Enhance Your Confidence?
Connect with New Zealand's leading breast augmentation surgeons for personalized consultations