Thursday, January 17, 2013

Breast Augmentation - All About Undergoing the Procedure

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures performed in North America today. Thousands of plastic surgeons perform these procedures annually and many women are pleased with the dramatic results. As skin ages, it naturally loses its elasticity and ability to fight gravity. Dramatic weight loss, pregnancy, and breastfeeding may contribute to tissue sagging and stretching out of shape. This type of surgical procedure is designed to restore firmness and shape while increasing cup size. Silicone or saline implants are commonly used to augment existing breast shape.


Women that make good breast augmentation patients are in good overall health without bleeding or clotting disorders. They are emotionally and psychologically sound with realistic expectations and have the ability to discuss their questions or concerns openly and freely with the physician. This ensures that they receive the most appropriate procedure for their situation and achieve maximal satisfaction with the results. The most common type of women that seek this cosmetic procedure have small-to-medium sized breasts and are looking to enhance their overall size and shape.


Specific surgical techniques and procedures for breast augmentation will vary depending on the skill and experience of the surgeon, as well as the type of augmentation being performed. Incisions may be placed below the breast, along the areolar border or in the axilla. Implant materials may be saline or silicone. Pocket location may be above or below the pectoralis chest wall muscle.


Complications of breast augmentation are similar to other invasive operations and may include negative reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, blood clot formation, delayed wound healing, asymmetry, irregularities, lumps or bumps, and hematoma or seroma formation. While many side effects are rare, most depend on the level of skill and experience of the surgeon performing the procedure. As such, it is important to thoroughly research plastic surgeons available in your area and find one that you trust. Most physicians will offer before and after photos of their work.


After the surgery, a moderate amount of pain and swelling can be expected. Redness or bruising may also occur and should subside within a week or two. Your surgeon may recommend that you wear ice packs in your bra to reduce inflammation and will often advise patients to avoid strenuous sexual or physical activity for at least a couple of weeks, if not longer. Scarring as the incisions heal is highly variable and will depend on a variety of factors including patient age, overall health, whether or not they smoke, genetics, and surgical technique. Most plastic surgeons will place incision lines along natural skin folds in order to minimize their appearance.


In conclusion, breast augmentation is a very popular cosmetic surgery and widely available from a variety of surgeons across the country. In order to ensure you receive the most effective and safe techniques for your body shape and post-operative expectations, it is important to thoroughly research plastic surgeons in your area. Finding a physician that is board certified in plastic surgery with a lot of knowledge and education will go a long way to ensuring your breast augmentation experience is a positive one.

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