Breast Augmentation: The More You Know The Better You Are

Breast augmentation is a very popular cosmetic surgery among women for a variety of reasons. Some women want to improve the shape of their breasts after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. Some women choose this procedure as part of an overall package to shape and contour the body. Other women are happy with the rest of their body and just want to increase the cup size nature has given them. Whatever your reason for researching breast augmentation, there are a few factors to keep in mind when deciding whether or not this procedure is right for you.

Advances in breast augmentation techniques, tools and procedures have brought this surgery a long way in a short time. Where there used to be long incisions and large scars, the incisions are now hidden and much smaller. Where there used to be concerns about implant material and rupture or leakage, there are mechanisms and superior materials in place to prevent health risks associated with foreign material in the chest cavity. And where there used to be a social stigma associated with artificially enhanced breasts, the procedure has become so popular and commonplace that it is hard to find anything wrong with it. As such, many women are turning to this popular cosmetic surgery to help improve their self-image and self-esteem.

However, there are a few drawbacks, side effects, and risks that are still associated with breast augmentation surgery. It is an invasive surgery that must be performed under local anesthesia. As such, it carries the same intra- and post-operative risks of any major surgery. It is also important that the physician you trust to perform this procedure is board-certified and has extensive experience with breast augmentation. This will help ensure you have a speedy recovery and are happy with the overall results for years to come. Inexperienced or inadequately trained physicians that do not hold licensure in plastic surgery may offer this procedure at a suspiciously cheap rate. Beware! It is definitely a case of getting what you pay for. And investing a little more time and money up front is definitely worth it in the long run.

Alternatives to breast augmentation include special lingerie and bra products that simulate larger breasts without surgical intervention. Also, some women prefer to have a breast lift performed, which improves the overall shape of the chest, but does not dramatically increase cup size. Be sure to consult with your doctor about the ideal cup size for your frame and figure. They will help you choose a goal that is realistic and looks appropriate.

Contact a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area today. He or she will be able to answer any remaining questions you may have and outline a specific pre- and post-operative plan. They should also be able to show you before and after pictures or even provide a computerized simulation of what the final product will look like. Do your research before you invest in breast augmentation and you will be happy with the results for years to come.