Breast Augmentation: The Hows and Whys

Breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the world, but women do  it for a wide variety of reasons. For example, they may want to enlarge the size of genetically small breasts or improve the appearance of sagging breasts after losing a large amount of weight. Others may want to correct unevenly sized or shaped breasts, or restore breasts that have lost their position and firmness due to age, pregnancy, or breast feeding.

Whatever the motive, breast augmentation — also known as augmentation mammoplasty or breast implant surgery — can enhance the size and shape of the breasts to give patients the desired appearance.

How Breast Augmentation Works

Breast augmentation is a delicate surgical operation that involves the insertion of an implant, either above the muscle or behind the tissue of the breast. The idea is to increase the size of the breast to a desired measurement while preserving its natural appearance.

Breast implants can come in various shapes and sizes and be made either out of silicone or saline filler. In addition, implants can be positioned in a variety of ways and in different locations inside a woman’s breast area. For these reasons, it takes a highly trained, experienced, and skilled professional to perform the operation successfully and satisfactorily.

Breast Augmentation Post-surgical Issues

Breast augmentation surgery results in the temporary side effects of:
•    Separated and stretched tissue
•    Bruises and sores from incisions
•    Swelling of the breast area
•    Pain of moderate degree, but managed through prescribed medication
•    Restricted physical movement and handling of heavy objects during recovery period

Breast surgery, like any other kind of surgery, also has its share of risks, including:
•    Excessive bleeding
•    Complications from infection
•    Complications from physical reaction to anesthesia

However, risks can be mitigated through proper precautionary measures under the supervision of a highly qualified plastic surgeon.

Is Breast Augmentation Worth It?

Deciding whether to undergo breast augmentation surgery is a matter of carefully balancing the benefits of restored self-confidence after surgery and healing, the health risks involved, and the financial cost of the decision. If you are considering a breast augmentation procedure, speak with a board certified plastic surgeon who has a track record of experience in this type of surgery to determine whether the procedure is right for you.