Learn the Facts Before Undergoing Breast Augmentation

The word augmentation means to increase, boost or amplify. Breast augmentation is therefore used to increase the fullness and projection of the breast. This form of breast enhancement surgery has been in existence since the 1960s and has become one of the most widely performed cosmetic plastic surgery for women. Implants are used during this procedure to give the patient fuller breasts and to restore the breast volume. During breast augmentation surgery the patient is given medication for pain management which could either be administered intravenously or via general anesthesia. Once the patient is comfortable, an incision is made in an area of the breast that is inconspicuous. A good surgeon will be mindful about minimizing any visible scarring.

There is always some type of risk when undergoing any form of surgery and patients considering breast augmentation should not do so blindly before getting a good referral to a surgeon with an impressive success rate. Any reputable surgeon will perform an initial consultation to ensure that you are a good candidate for breast augmentation. Some of the factors they will be looking at are your breast size and shape, quality of the skin, and nipples and areolas placement. The surgeon will check out your medical history to determine if there are any preexisting conditions that would make you ineligible for the operation. Let your physician know if you are planning a pregnancy or significant weight loss because he or she would likely recommend delaying the surgery. Also, although there is no evidence that the procedure contributes to the risk of breast cancer, be advised that breast augmentation is known to interfere with mammograms. This is just something else to keep in mind when considering all the risks involved with this procedure.

The cost for surgery varies based on the surgeon's experience or lack thereof. Demand and competition drives up the cost, so depending on where you are located the cost may differ across states. Some of the related fees include hospital cost, anesthesia, medication and medical tests. The average cost for breast augmentation is around $4,000, excluding the additional surgery-related fees. Ask about these other related fees ahead of time and get it in writing so that there are no surprises. And finally, do not be afraid to question the surgeon if there are any warranties on the procedure that he or she is about to perform on you. Breast augmentation is not something you want to have buyer's remorse over.