Friendly, factual, and traveler-focused—so you can plan with confidence.

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified, board-certified surgeon about your personal circumstances.

Phuket Province combines skilled plastic surgeons, modern private hospitals, and a relaxed island atmosphere—ideal for recovery. It’s one of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations for cosmetic surgery, thanks to English-speaking teams, transparent package pricing, and clinics designed around the needs of international patients. For many travelers, total costs run significantly lower than at home, often without compromising on safety or outcomes.

• Well-established cosmetic centers serving international patients
• Competitive implant package pricing and clear timelines
• Convenient access via Phuket International Airport (HKT)
• Resort-style recovery with quiet, comfortable hotel options
• Experienced coordinators to help with scheduling, airport pickups, and follow-ups

If you’re starting your research, the nationwide overview of breast augmentation in Thailand on Medical Departures is a helpful primer.

The reason for the massive difference in prices here and at home is not because of inferior work or materials but because the cost of living and overheads are far lower in Thailand and the savings are passed on to you. The medical tourism trade is a significant part of the Thai economy and in order to keep the people coming, the standard of work must be top quality. Thailand has the most Joint Commission International-accredited facilities in Southeast Asia, and this award is generally only given to hospitals, you will find that independent clinics strive to provide top-quality facilities matching international standards.

Thai doctors’ training has met and often surpasses Western standards. Many do their postgraduate training abroad and are often American board-certified so you can be sure you’re in safe hands, provided you choose wisely.

This is where Medical Departures comes in. We verify qualifications, any professional memberships with international medical organizations and online testimonials. We also visit clinics personally and if we’re not satisfied with any aspect of the services we don’t list them on our site.

Breast enlargement increases breast size and enhances shape using silicone or saline implants, or your own fat (fat transfer). Surgeons typically place the implant behind the breast and/or chest muscle through a small incision—commonly under the fold of the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). You’ll be asleep under general anesthesia. The surgery usually takes about 1–2 hours.

Most international patients rest in Phuket for a week before flying home. During that time, you’ll attend at least one post-op check and wear a supportive bra or compression garment as advised by your surgeon.

Incision Sites

• Inframammary: In the breast fold; commonly used; good access and control.
• Periareolar: Incision around the areola; can camouflage the scar but not ideal for all patients.
• Transaxillary: In the armpit; avoids a breast scar; requires suitable anatomy and surgeon expertise.

Implant Options

• Silicone gel: Popular for a natural feel. Many gel cohesivities (“firmness”) exist.
• Saline: Filled with sterile salt water; can be adjusted intraoperatively; feel can be firmer or show rippling in thin tissues.
• Shape: Round (fuller upper pole) vs. Teardrop/Anatomical (more sloped look).

Placement & Technique

• Subglandular: Over the muscle, faster recovery but less soft-tissue coverage.
• Submuscular: Under the chest muscle, more coverage; may reduce certain risks like visible rippling.
• Dual-plane: Partially under muscle; a common, versatile approach.

Alternative: Fat Transfer

Fat transfer can subtly increase size and improve contour using your own fat. It’s great for refinement and symmetry but often won’t achieve the same size increase as implants in one session.

Phuket’s private-sector prices are typically well below those in the US, UK, and Australia. Package quotes often include surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, hospital/facility costs, implants, an overnight stay (if needed), and follow-ups. Your final price depends on implant type, surgical complexity, and any add-ons (e.g., lift, fat grafting).

At-a-glance estimates (USD):

*Savings shown vs a US typical private-market total of $9,000. Figures are illustrative, based on reputable sources and clinic listings; exchange rates and individual quotes vary. Ask for a personalized, itemized quote before booking.

For reference, US professional data report average surgeon fees for augmentation (not a full hospital total) in recent years around the mid-$4,000s; full, all-in totals are higher with anesthesia, facility, and implants. UK private hospitals commonly list £6,800–£8,300+ depending on implant type. In Australia, private totals often range AU$10,000–AU$18,000 depending on surgeon, facility, and implants.

Use Medical Departures to compare verified clinics, photos, and prices. Here are helpful starting points:

• Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute (PPSI) — One of Phuket’s most recognized cosmetic centers for international patients; package choices and robust aftercare processes.
• Apex Medical Center (Phuket) — Modern aesthetic center with listed implant options and traveler-friendly scheduling.

Background reading: Breast Augmentation Hospitals in Phuket and Top Phuket Plastic Surgery Packages.

How the Journey Typically Works

Before You Fly

• Virtual consult to share goals and medical history; receive a preliminary plan and quote.
• Confirm surgery date, flights, and hotel; ask about airport pickups.
• Stop smoking 4+ weeks prior and follow all medication instructions.
• Pack button-up tops and plan quiet, low-effort activities for week one.

Arrival in Phuket

• In-person consultation and sizing session; finalize implant brand, profile, and incision location.
• Pre-op labs, anesthesia assessment, and consent.

Surgery Day

• Arrive fasting; total time at the facility is ~2–3 hours; surgery itself usually 1–2 hours.
• You’ll wake in recovery with a support bra or compression garment.
• Some patients stay one night in the hospital; others discharge the same day depending on the protocol.

Recovery Week in Phuket

• Days 1–3: Rest, take short indoor walks, and keep incisions dry as instructed.
• Days 4–7: Follow-up visit; many feel ready for gentle outings, room-service meals, and short walks on hotel grounds.
• Day 7–10: Surgeon may clear you to fly if everything looks good.

At Home

• Weeks 2–6: Gradual return to activities; avoid chest-intensive workouts and heavy lifting until cleared.
• 3–6 months: Implants settle into their final position (“drop and fluff”).

All surgeries carry risks. Typical after-effects include bruising, swelling, and temporary tightness. Less common risks include infection, bleeding, implant malposition or rotation, capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant), implant rupture or deflation over time, and changes in nipple sensation. Anesthesia carries its own risks.

How to Reduce Risk

• Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon and an accredited facility.
• Share your full medical history and follow pre/post-op instructions exactly.
• Stay long enough for a post-op check and clearance to fly.
• Avoid smoking and keep incisions clean and dry.
• Know how your home-country regulators advise monitoring breast implants over time.

This guide is not medical advice. Discuss your personal risks and benefits with your surgeon.

Airport: Phuket International Airport (HKT) serves direct and connecting flights from Australia, Asia, and the Middle East, with simple ground transport options on arrival. The official HKT passenger guide explains arrivals, taxis, and airport bus routes.

Ground Transport (Post-Op Friendly)

• Pre-booked clinic or hotel transfer for minimal walking and hassle.
• Airport taxi desks, metered taxis, and app-based rides—ask for a comfortable vehicle with seat recline.
• Airport Bus to Phuket Town for companions handling logistics; consider private transfers on surgery day.

Where to Recover

• Mai Khao & Nai Yang: Quiet, near the airport; ideal for minimal travel after surgery.
• Kamala & Bang Tao: Calmer upscale areas with resort options and quieter evenings.
• Karon & Kata: Balanced amenities; choose hotels away from nightlife for better rest.

Flight Time Snapshots

• Sydney → Phuket: approx. 9–9.5 hours (nonstop or one stop)
• Melbourne → Phuket: approx. 9.5–10.5 hours (usually one stop)
• Singapore → Phuket: approx. 2 hours
• Bangkok → Phuket: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
• Dubai → Phuket: approx. 6.5–7 hours
• London → Phuket: approx. 14–16 hours (one stop typical)
• Los Angeles → Phuket: approx. 19–22 hours (one to two stops)

Smart Safety & Health Prep

• Review CDC travel health advice for Thailand and ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
• Check your country’s travel advisory—for example, the U.S. State Department advisory for Thailand.
• Use licensed transport and avoid dehydration/overheating after surgery.

High season in Phuket runs roughly November to March, so book 2–6+ weeks ahead if possible. Clinics often request a deposit to secure your operating room time. Confirm what your quote includes—anesthesia, facility fees, implants, post-op bras, overnight stay, and follow-ups—so you can compare apples to apples.

Payment options typically include major credit cards, bank transfer, and sometimes cash. Contact your bank to lift daily card limits and to pre-authorize international charges. Keep a backup card handy.

Ready to compare options? Start with verified clinics like Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute (PPSI) and Apex Medical Center (Phuket), and request itemized quotes. You can also scan background articles like Breast Augmentation Hospitals in Phuket or explore Top Phuket Plastic Surgery Packages.

1) How long should I stay in Phuket after breast enlargement?

Short answer: 7–10 days for most travelers.

More detail: One week typically covers early follow-up and initial healing. If combining procedures or if you prefer extra rest before a long flight, plan 8–10 days (or as advised by your surgeon).

2) Do Phuket clinics offer warranties or guarantees?

Short answer: Implant manufacturer warranties are common; aesthetic guarantees are uncommon.

More detail: Most implant brands include a manufacturer warranty for rupture and certain issues. Clinics may have revision policies with conditions and timeframes. Ask for written terms before booking.

3) Which ground transport is best right after surgery?

Short answer: Pre-booked private transfers or hotel pick-ups.

More detail: These minimize walking and waiting. If you use taxis or ride-hailing, request a smooth-driving car with adjustable seating and easy entry/exit.

4) What payment methods are accepted?

Short answer: Major cards and bank transfers; confirm in advance.

More detail: Most private facilities accept credit cards. Some accept bank transfers or offer discounts for certain payment types. Contact your bank to approve international charges.

5) Will I also need a breast lift?

Short answer: Sometimes—if there’s moderate sagging.

More detail: Implants add volume but cannot significantly lift the breast on their own. If nipples sit low or there’s laxity, your surgeon may recommend a lift for the result you want.

6) Is it safe to fly after the procedure?

Short answer: Yes—with surgeon clearance, typically after 7–10 days.

More detail: Walk periodically during travel, stay hydrated, and wear loose layers. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.

7) How long do implants last?

Short answer: Implants are not lifetime devices.

More detail: Many patients enjoy long-term results, but future revision or replacement may be needed due to aging changes, preference shifts, or rare complications. Attend regular follow-ups and follow regulator guidance on monitoring.

8) Can I combine breast enlargement with other procedures?

Short answer: Yes—popular pairings include lift, liposuction, or tummy tuck.

More detail: Combination surgery can optimize total cost and downtime, but it increases operating time. Your surgeon will assess whether combining procedures is safe for you.

1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2024). Average Surgeon/Physician Fees (2023).
2. Nuffield Health. (2025). Breast augmentation (enlargement) – pricing.
3. Avenue Plastic Surgery. (n.d.). Breast augmentation prices – Australia.
4. CDC Travelers’ Health – Thailand.
5. U.S. Department of State – Thailand Travel Advisory.
6. Phuket International Airport (HKT) – Passenger Guide.
7. Tourism Authority of Thailand – Official Site.
8. Medical Departures – Breast Augmentation in Thailand (Overview).
9. Medical Departures – Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute (PPSI).
10. Medical Departures – Apex Medical Center (Phuket).