About Breast Augmentation

Augmentation surgery enhances the size of breasts using inflatable implants filled with saline or silicone (in certain cases).

Alternative to breast augmentation could be saline implants or silicone implants.

For breast augmentation surgery the incision is made in one of these locations:

• Under the areola (the pink circle around the nipple),
• Under the breast In the armpit area,
• In the belly button.

After creating the incision, the surgeon lifts the breast tissue up to create a pocket either directly under the tissue or underneath the muscle, depending on the surgeon’s judgment and the patient’s physique.

The best candidate for breast enlargement is someone with realistic expectations about what the procedure will accomplish. Hoping for perfection will only bring disappointment. Enlarging your breasts will give you a more aesthetic appearance and may raise your self-confidence. The good news is you’ll still be you, only better. Talk with your surgeon about your expectations and you can decide together how realistic they are.

Most implant manufacturers provide a lifetime warranty on their breast implants. Occasionally implants may require removal or replacement. No surgeon can guarantee the outcome, but most will work with you to achieve the most optimal results for breast augmentation. If this means additional treatments in the treated area many will usually do this for you without a surgical fee, if they think it is medically safe.

Breast implants are not permanent, this means that sometimes it may be necessary to remove or replace them in some time after initial breast augmentation surgery. Some of the problems that may make it necessary to replace the implants include: deflation; the formation of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), which may cause the breast to feel tight or hard; bleeding or infection. Increase or decrease in sensitivity of nipples or breast skin, occasionally permanent. Mammography requires a special technique. Temporary soreness, swelling, change in nipple sensation, bruising, and breast sensitivity to stimulation for a few weeks are the most common side effects. Make certain you understand all consent forms.

You will can be back to work in a few days after breast augmentation procedure. Physical contact with breasts: 3 to 4 weeks. Fading of scars: several months or more.

Anesthesia is usually a very light general during the breast augmentation surgery. There is only minimal pain that is mostly gone by the second or third day and easily controlled by medications.

Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for breast enlargement surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets and certain medications. If you develop a cold or an infection of any kind, especially a skin infection, your surgery may have to be postponed. Though rare, your doctor may recommend that you have blood drawn ahead of time in case it is needed during surgery. Also, while you are making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and, if needed, to help you at home for a day or two. Special accommodations are available for patients who are coming from out of town.

After breast augmentation surgery, you will likely experience some fluid drainage from the incisions. Occasionally, a small drainage tube may be inserted beneath the skin for a couple of days to prevent fluid build-up. To control swelling and to help your skin better fit its new contours, you may be fitted with a snug elastic garment to wear over the treated area for a few weeks. Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. Don’t expect to look or feel great right after surgery. Even though the newer techniques are believed to reduce some post-operative discomforts, you may still experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding and temporary numbness. Pain can be controlled with medications prescribed by your surgeon, though you may still feel stiff and sore for a few days. It is normal to feel a bit anxious or depressed in the days or weeks following surgery. However, this feeling will subside as you begin to look and feel better.

Breast Augmentation Cost

Lower bound: $4,000
Upper bound: $15,000
National average: $6,500

Breast Augmentation Testimonials

“I had been self-conscious about my small breasts ever since I was a teenager. From filling my bras with napkins to push-up bras to silicone inserts, I had tried them all. None looked or felt right. I asked all may girlfriends who had had the surgery (breast augmentation) and they were all happy they did it. The name of your surgeons kept coming up. I chose to get the surgery through my belly button. I am glad I did it. It is the best decision I ever made.”

– Elizabeth M. 27, Santa Monica CA