Breast Augmentation: Know The Facts

Also commonly referred to as enhancement, or enlargement, breast augmentation is a procedure that is performed on patients looking for balance, a larger size, or in order to dimensions that may have diminished due to age or as a result of pregnancy.

The overall process can take up to several weeks from the initial consultation through the recovery process. Prior to the operation, many decisions must be outlined, including the size and type of implant, the placement area, and incision locations. Specific instructions will also be given to patients in the weeks preceding the treatment date.

During the operation, the surgeon places the implants according to the outline decided upon during the initial planning stages. The entire procedure typically lasts between one and two hours.

Post surgery, patients generally experience a fair amount of soreness and drowsiness. While recovering patients should be afforded the ability to move about after 48 hours, side effects can sometimes last from a couple weeks to a month afterward.

Patients are strongly encouraged to follow any and all instructions given during the healing process and employ the help of a close friend or family member to help them through the immediate recovery process.

While there are certainly many benefits as a result of the procedure, there are also a number of risks which should be taken into account. These include ruptured implants, capsular contracture, and others, which can interfere with the overall appearance and results. Candidates for the treatment should be aware of any risks prior to undergoing surgery.

Only a qualified physician is able to determine whether breast augmentation is the right course of action for any specific individual. Though, there are some groups of people for whom the decision is typically frowned upon.

Young women under the age of 18 are typically considered among those who should not pursue this type of treatment due to the fact that many bodies will continue developing into the early twenties. To find out whether you are a proper candidate, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a board certified physician in your area.

Selecting your surgeon is one of the most important aspects of the whole process. Be sure, above all, that your physician is board-certified, and someone who has experience performing the procedure you’re interested in having done.

Your surgeon should be someone with whom you feel comfortable, and can trust. Be sure to take the time to look around and evaluate your options prior to making a final selection.