Cosmetic Procedures: Breast Augmentation

So you're seeking a way to enhance your breasts, perhaps you are planning to improve their overall appearance?

The good news is that you're one of many women who want to have this procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation increased , from over 32,000 cases in 1992 to more than 250,000 surgeries in 2003.

Women get their breasts augmented for a variety of reasons: they may seek to increase the size of their breasts, or improve breasts that have taken a beating due to multiple pregnancies. In some cases, women seek breast augmentation as a form of reconstructive surgery or to provide balance to uneven breasts.

But before you jump in, it's important to educate yourself. We've compiled this information as a basic overview; however, this does not replace the advice of a surgeon.

Your Consultation

Before you undergo breast augmentation, you'll meet with your surgeon. You should prepare for this consultation by thinking about what you like and don't like about your breasts. Remember, you're not seeking perfection, but improvement. Also, be sure that you're in good mental and physical health, overall, and that you have realistic expectations. This surgery is not going to solve problems for you.

Your surgeon will need to take a detailed medical history, including any previous problems you've had with your breasts, including lumps. You also should be able to tell your surgeon of any medication you are taking.

How It's Done

The procedure will take about one to two hours. It will be performed either under general anesthesia (you'll go to sleep) or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. You and your surgeon will make this determination together.

Breast augmentation can be performed with one of several approaches. Your surgeon can perform the procedure via the crease under your breast (known as the inframammary fold); via the areola (known as the "nipple" incision); via your armpit (known as transaxillary); or a newer, lesser-used method, via your belly button. Your surgeon will discuss all the possible methods with you and together, you will determine which best suits your needs.

There are different types of implants used as well, including saline or silicone gel. It's very important to keep up to date on FDA regulations for any implants. Since 1992, silicone has only been approved for use in some clinical studies. Your surgeon will discuss all your implant options with you.

There are two different ways for your surgeon to insert the implant: either in front of or behind the breast muscle. You can discuss the benefits of each one with your surgeon and make that determination together.

After the implants are placed, the incision sites will be stitched close and your surgeon may also use drainage tubes. It's very important that you follow your surgeon's follow-up care for the incision site. Your breasts will be covered with a bandage of gauze or you may even be sent home with a surgical bra.