Breast Augmentation: Size, Shape and Fullness

There are many reasons for women to seek breast augmentation, whether the patient is unhappy about her breast size, shape, fullness or if her breasts are different sizes. Each patient needs to decide for herself if breast enhancement are right for her, and even though there are risks involved, understanding the process and outcomes can lead to a better experience.

Augmentation should only be performed by a licensed plastic surgeon, which specializes in procedure. It should also be performed in an accredited facility. Before the surgery, ask your surgeon for her or his educational background, membership to professional societies, and the accreditation of the facility the surgery is to be performed.

If you are having difficulties locating an appropriate surgeon check with your family doctor, ask a friend who has had a similar procedure, or locate a professional plastic surgery association on the Internet for recommendations. When you find your preferred surgeon, he or she will schedule an initial consult to evaluate you for the procedure. The surgeon will often ask why you are seeking the surgery. She may take pictures for your medical record and further evaluation.

The surgeon will also make recommendations based on your desired outcomes. She will show you the possibilities of shapes, sizes, as well as placement of the nipples. In certain circumstance, the surgeon may also recommend a lift if your breasts are sagging. You will also discuss the types of enhancements that will be used for the procedure. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved silicone-filled and saline-filled types of breast implants.

Implants are also round and contoured type, which produce different results. Also, you may select smooth or textured implants. These last two options do not change the texture of the skin, rather it is the actual implant. It is believed that the textured implants adhere to the tissue better preventing slipping of the sacks. However, smooth sacks tend to last longer.

During this consultation, it is important to provide the surgeon with your medical history, including previous surgeries, illnesses, diseases, disorders, allergies, and current medications. Because this procedure involves the breast, it is especially important to disclose any history or family history of breast cancer.

It is also important; to tell your surgeon whether or not you plan on any future pregnancies, because the hormones in your body associated with pregnancy can alter your breast size and change your augmentation. Although there is no evidence that implants causes cancer or affects pregnancy, you may want to discuss these issues with the surgeon to resolve any questions you may have.

There are risks associated with any type of surgery. Because augmentations are done under general anesthesia, it is possible to develop an allergy to the medication, but this risk is minimal. Much effort is taken to hide scars, but they are still possible.

Infections are possible at any surgical site, but you will most likely be given an antibiotic to reduce this possibility. If the infection worsens, the implant may need to be removed until the infection is gone.

However, this is rare. After the surgery, it is possible for the implants to rupture. Actually, the life of a silicone and saline sacks are estimated between 10-15 years. Depending on the type of implant, the rupture may be noticeable (saline) or be a slow process (silicone-filled).

It is recommended that patients with ruptured saline sacks immediately notify their surgeon for removal and replacement of the implant. For patient with silicone sacks, it is recommended to have frequently MRIs to assess the integrity of the implant.

There are definitely risks associated with breast augmentation, but cosmetic surgeons have received thorough training to minimize these risks. Many women who proceed with an augmentation are pleased and satisfied with their results. Rarely do they have any complications to the process. If you have further questions it is recommended that you discuss these issues with your family doctor or a experienced cosmetic surgeon.