So, You Want a Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a very popular cosmetic surgery procedure. It is often performed in order to enhance a woman’s appearance but it is also performed in order to reconstruct breasts lost to cancer treatment. A woman’s bust-line contributes greatly to her feelings of femininity. If she is flat chested or has lost volume or fullness due to aging or childbearing, chances are that she will have some self esteem issues. Having her figure enhanced into a curvy shape will boost her self confidence and esteem. There are many things to think about when considering an augmentation.

- Procedure: The procedure to augment a woman’s breasts entails placing implants into the chest region via incisions. Incision sites are chosen in order to be discrete and hide scarring. Some options include via the armpit, through the navel, below the natural fold or close to the nipple-areola region. The implant may be placed in front of or behind the pectoral muscle. This placement is a personal decision best decided by the patient with the help of her doctor. Anesthesia is given during this outpatient operation. Mild discomfort, swelling and bruising will occur but should only last for a few weeks.

- Implants: These are medical devices which may be filled with either silicone or saline. There are also some new ones being researched that are called “gummy bears.” The gummy bear types are named after the chewy German candies because the implants’ consistency is quite similar. Silicone is now approved by the FDA, the Food and Drug Administration, after years of research. Saline is very similar to the fluid found naturally in the human body, sort of a salt-water composition.

- Size: The size increase selected for the breast augmentation is definitely a personal choice. Patients should remember that bigger is not always better, however. The goal isn’t to look like Dolly Parton or a stripper but rather an enhanced version of oneself. Bone structure, weight, height and age should all be considered when choosing the size increase. Looking at “before and after” photos is a good way to gauge potential results. Doctors often have trial devices that a woman can take home and wear for a few days in order to see what it feels like to be a B, C, or D cup.

- Shape and protrusion: Implants come in oval or round shapes as well as with different amounts of protrusion. There are pros and cons to each type and this should be discussed with one’s doctor. Even though a patient is seeking to have a sexier figure, she needs to align it with her natural body shape.

- Risks: Although this operation is relatively safe, as with all medical interventions, there are risks of complications. Some potential risks for augmentation include unexpected scarring, loss of nipple sensation, infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia and rupture of implant.

Women of all ages are interested in having breast augmentation performed. It’s no secret that having a full bustline with ample cleavage is a figure enhancer. From teens to senior citizens, curvy figures boost self esteem.