Breast Augmentation with Implants

Learn about the factors that affect the cost of surgery

Also known as breast enlargement or a “boob job,” breast augmentation is the process of inserting an implant into the chest to increase the size of the breasts. This procedure is quite popular among women who believe that their natural breasts are too small for their body. It is is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures in the country, and can help boost the self-confidence of women who have been unhappy with their bustline.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Women who undergo breast augmentation surgery should be in good overall health, but are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts. Ideal patients are at or near their goal weight, or less than 30 pounds overweight. Some common reasons why women consider this procedure include counteracting the physical effects of significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, all of which can result in a reduction of breast volume. In addition to cosmetic enhancement, breast implants can also be used for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, or during male-to-female sex reassignment surgery.

Following breast augmentation, patients can expect a larger and fuller chest with increased cleavage. However, you must have realistic expectations when choosing to undergo any cosmetic procedure. While many women do report an increase in self-confidence following plastic surgery, this procedure is not for everyone. It is only appropriate for adult women who have carefully assessed their reasons for undergoing cosmetic surgery and have realistic expectations for the results of their breast enhancement.

Types of Breast Implants

Breast augmentation can be done with either silicone or saline-filled implants. Your choice should be discussed in detail with your plastic surgeon before the surgery is scheduled. Silicone breast implants typically need slightly longer incisions than saline ones, although many women feel that silicone implants offer the most realistic feel.

In addition to the type of breast implant, you’ll also need to consider other breast implant options such as the surface texture. It can be slightly rough in texture, or completely smooth. This can affect the feel of the breasts, particularly when they are squeezed. Furthermore, implants can be both round or teardrop for a low, moderate, or high profile. These decisions affect the overall aesthetic affect of your breast enhancement procedure.

Choosing The Right Breast Implants Size

Breast implants come in a wide range of sizes. It is important to be realistic when thinking about your desired breast size. The surgeon will help you decide among the various sizes based on the overall size of your body and the desired results of your breast augmentation procedure. Patients often find it helpful to view breast enlargement before & after photos when considering their options.

Understanding Risks and Side Effects

During your breast augmentation recovery, common side effects include pain, swelling, and bruising. You can expect the breast area to be sore for about a week as your tissues adjust to the implants. During the breast augmentation recovery period, you will need to keep surgical dressings over the area and restrict your movement.

In addition to these common side effects, the risks of breast augmentation include scarring, interference with breastfeeding, or a visual asymmetry between the breasts. In rare cases, collagen fibers may form around the breast implant, which is recognized by the body as a foreign object. This complication, known as capsular contracture, can be painful and may require the implants to be removed.

Although breast implants can remain safely in the body for several decades, there is a risk of rupturing or leaking. In some cases, routine MRI scans may be recommended for patients with silicone implants, as they can rupture without being noticed by the patient. Chest trauma can also be a cause for examination for ruptures or leaks.

Finding a Breast Augmentation Surgeon

Other than the costs of breast augmentation, its important to choose a plastic surgeon based on qualifications and experience. When choosing a breast augmentation surgeon, make sure they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or other established association such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASPS). Although membership in any society or board-certification doesn’t guarantee a successful outcome most certifying boards like these require extensive medical training, experience, and rigorous surgical education which can ensure that the most appropriate techniques are used for your breast augmentation surgery while reducing the risk of complications.