Rakhi Sawant and breast augmentation: “I got my breasts done. Big deal”

What did Rakhi Sawant say about her breast surgery?

Rakhi Sawant has spoken about her breast surgery more directly than almost anyone in Indian show business. In a 2016 interview with Mumbai Mirror, quoted by The Times of India, she said: “I have undergone plastic surgery. I got my breasts done. Big deal. … At least I’m honest enough to admit to it.”

In 2021 she returned to the subject in an interview reported by Hindustan Times, explaining that she had made the decision very young: “At that young age, I took the decision to put something in my body.” She said she did it “to look glamorous, to look different, to get work”.

Those interviews are all we rely on. Sawant did not name the year, the type of implant or the surgeon in these quotes, so this article does not guess. Where the text below explains the operation, it describes breast augmentation in general, not her treatment.

Why her honesty matters

Sawant’s main point is not about surgery itself but about telling the truth. She has said she was criticised precisely because she admitted it, while many others keep quiet. For patients in India and elsewhere, that openness is useful: it treats breast augmentation as an ordinary medical decision that an adult can make and talk about, rather than a secret.

Her other point is just as practical. She made the decision young, under career pressure. Today surgeons encourage patients to take their time, to be clear about their own reasons, and to understand the long-term commitment before they book a date. This article makes no judgement about anyone’s appearance; the focus is on the decision and the operation.

How breast augmentation is done today

Breast augmentation adds volume and improves shape by placing an implant behind the breast tissue or the chest muscle. The operation is done under general anaesthesia, usually lasts 1.5–3 hours and is followed by one day in hospital. The key choices are made with the surgeon:

Implants are not permanent: they usually last about 10–15 years before replacement. A patient who has surgery in her twenties should expect that another operation may be needed later.

Who is a candidate and how to prepare

Augmentation suits healthy adults who want more breast volume or a better shape and have realistic expectations. After childbirth, surgeons recommend waiting at least 6–12 months after the birth and after breastfeeding ends.

Before surgery you will need blood tests, a coagulation panel, infection tests, an ECG, a chest X-ray and a breast ultrasound. Aspirin-type drugs, steroids and hormonal drugs are stopped in agreement with the doctor, and oral contraceptives usually at least a month before. The surgeon also explains the possible complications: hematoma, seroma, infection, changes in nipple sensitivity, capsular contracture, asymmetry, wound separation and tissue necrosis.

Recovery step by step

Expect moderate discomfort for the first three days, much less by days 5–7, and none by weeks 2–3. Non-physical work is usually possible after 7–14 days and walks after one to two weeks. Fitness and swimming return after 4–6 weeks and strength training after three months. Compression garments are worn for 4–6 weeks. Swelling settles in about a month, full recovery takes 3–6 months, scars fade over 6–12 months and sensitivity usually returns within 3–12 months.

1. Day of surgeryGeneral anaesthesia and 1.5–3 hours of surgery, then one night in hospital.
2. Days 1–3Moderate discomfort, managed with painkillers; compression garment is worn.
3. Days 7–14Most people return to non-physical work; short walks are encouraged.
4. Weeks 4–6Swelling has settled; fitness and swimming are allowed; compression ends.
5. Month 3Strength training can resume.
6. Months 6–12Scars fade and sensitivity usually returns.

Breast augmentation at City Medical Centre

City Medical Centre performs breast augmentation for international patients, as well as breast lifts, reduction and implant removal. The first consultation is free and can be held online, so patients from Mumbai and other cities can discuss their plans before travelling. After the consultation the surgeon names the price, which is fixed in the contract. Breast augmentation costs $4,700, including anaesthesia, the hospital stay and a year of follow-up with the plastic surgeon. More details are on the breast augmentation page.

To be clear: City Medical Centre has no connection with Rakhi Sawant or her treatment. Her words are simply a well-known example of someone who chose to talk openly about the operation.

Frequently asked questions

Did Rakhi Sawant confirm breast surgery herself?

Yes. In a 2016 interview with Mumbai Mirror, quoted by The Times of India, she said: “I got my breasts done. Big deal.” She spoke about it again in 2021.

Why did Rakhi Sawant have breast implants?

In 2021 she said she made the decision at a young age, to look glamorous, to look different and to get work. She did not give further medical details.

What is the minimum age for breast augmentation?

It is an operation for adults. Many surgeons encourage patients to wait until they are sure of their reasons, because implants usually need replacing after about 10–15 years.

How much does breast augmentation cost at City Medical Centre?

It costs $4,700, including anaesthesia, the hospital stay and a year of follow-up with the plastic surgeon. The first consultation is free and can be held online.

How long does recovery take?

Non-physical work is usually possible after 7–14 days, sport after 4–6 weeks and strength training after three months. Full recovery takes 3–6 months.