What You Need to Know About Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery for women, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Some women feel that their breasts never developed the way they hoped, while others experience a loss of volume after having children. Even a healthy lifestyle adjustment like losing weight can cause unflattering changes in the shape of the breasts. For these reasons and more, many women are dissatisfied with the look of their breasts, often leading to a lack of self-confidence or low self-esteem.

Breast augmentation can change all that. If you’re considering breast enhancement to improve your appearance and your state of mind, it’s important to learn as much as you can about the entire process. Here are three things every woman should know:

• Understand the procedure. You should know which certifications are key to your safety, plus familiarize yourself with incision and implant options. Choose a doctor who is board certified in plastic surgery and then listen to their recommendations as to which approach is fitting for your anatomy and goals. During consultation, your plastic surgeon will help you choose an appropriate implant based on your cosmetic goals and physical measurements, such as height, weight, and chest size. Before booking surgery, confirm that your operation will be performed in an accredited surgical facility, and that your anesthesia will be administered by a qualified anesthesia provider.
• Understand the recovery. As with any surgery, recovery will include some pain, bruising, and swelling. Light bleeding is common, as is slight scarring that fades over time. A compression bra is worn to minimize swelling. Patients should avoid heavy exercise for several weeks, but it is possible to return to many routine activities within five to seven days. Typically, breast augmentation has a fairly easy recovery.
• Understand the risks. Any surgical procedure has a risk of complications. Discussing the risks with your plastic surgeon is the best way to ensure that you fully understand them. Modern implants have a very low risk of rupture or leakage and carry a ten-year manufacturer’s warranty that provides payment for some surgical costs should they be required during the warranty period. Techniques used during surgery and recovery may help reduce the risk of some possible complications, such as capsular contracture.

To ensure that you are fully informed about breast augmentation surgery, meet with your plastic surgeon to discuss options based on your aesthetic concerns. If you think you may be ready for breast augmentation surgery, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Many breast augmentation patients find that the positive change in their physical appearance impacts their attitude as well—so looking good leads to feeling good!