Breast augmentation is an increasingly popular surgical procedure for women looking to enhance the size and shape of their breasts. This cosmetic procedure can help to improve a woman’s self-confidence and body image, while also helping to balance out their figure. During breast augmentation surgery, implants are inserted into the chest area in order to increase the size of the breasts. The type of implant used will depend on a variety of factors, including the patient’s desired look, her anatomy, and her lifestyle habits.
It is important for patients considering breast augmentation surgery to be aware of all potential risks and complications associated with this procedure. It is also important for patients to be aware of the types of implants available and which one may be best suited for them. Additionally, it is essential that patients take the necessary steps before and after their surgery in order to ensure a successful outcome.
This article will provide an overview of breast augmentation surgery, including what it is, what types of implants are available, potential risks and complications associated with this procedure, how to prepare for surgery, questions to ask your surgeon, and maintenance and follow-up care.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that increases the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. The goal of this procedure is to improve the proportion and appearance of the breasts in relation to the rest of the body. It can also be used to restore volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss.
During breast augmentation surgery, an implant is inserted into a pocket made beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle. The type, size, and shape of implant used will depend on the patient’s desired outcome and anatomy. The implants can be filled with either saline (salt water) or silicone gel.
In addition to increasing the size of the breasts, some women may opt for breast augmentation surgery to correct asymmetry between their two breasts or to restore fullness after pregnancy or weight loss. The procedure can also be used to reconstruct breasts after mastectomy or injury.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation
The primary benefit of breast augmentation is improved body contour and symmetry. Other advantages include increased self-confidence and improved clothing fit due to increased cleavage and cup size. Depending on the type of implant used, some patients may also experience better nipple sensation and reduced discomfort from bra straps digging into their shoulders.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Good candidates for breast augmentation are women who are physically healthy, have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve, and understand potential risks associated with any surgical procedure. Generally speaking, most women over 18 years old who are unhappy with their breast size or shape may be suitable candidates for this procedure. However, it is important that each individual consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon before making any decisions about undergoing surgery.
Types of Implants
There are two main types of implants used in breast augmentation: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution, while silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel. Both types of implants have their advantages and disadvantages.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution after they are placed in the body. These implants tend to be less expensive than silicone implants, and they can be inserted through a smaller incision due to their collapsible design. However, saline implants can be more prone to rippling and may not look as natural as silicone implants.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that is designed to feel more like natural breast tissue. These implants tend to provide a more natural appearance and feel than saline implants, but they require larger incisions for insertion. In addition, silicone implants may cost more than saline implants.
No matter which type of implant is chosen, it is important for patients to discuss their options with their surgeon in order to make an informed decision about which implant will best meet their needs and goals for breast augmentation surgery.
Saline and silicone implants are used for breast augmentation. Saline implants are cheaper, collapsible, but more prone to rippling. Silicone implants are more natural, but require larger incisions and cost more. Discuss options with surgeon for best results.
Potential Risks and Complications
Breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure, but like any surgery there are certain risks and potential complications that must be taken into consideration. It is important to speak with your surgeon about all of the possible risks and complications associated with breast augmentation before undergoing the surgery.
Infection
One of the most common risks associated with breast augmentation is infection. Infection can occur at the incision site or around the implant itself. If an infection occurs, it can cause pain, fever, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the area. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection. In severe cases, additional surgery may be required to remove the implant or drain any infected fluid from the area.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is a complication that occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to become hard and misshapen. This can cause discomfort and pain in the breasts as well as an unnatural appearance. Treatment for capsular contracture may involve antibiotics or additional surgery to remove or replace the implant.
Implant Rupture
Another potential risk of breast augmentation is implant rupture. This occurs when a saline or silicone gel-filled implant ruptures or leaks due to age, trauma, or wear and tear over time. Implant rupture can cause pain and discomfort in the affected breast as well as changes in shape and size. Depending on how much of the implant has leaked out, additional surgery may be necessary to remove or replace it.
Nipple Sensation Changes
Breast augmentation can also cause changes in nipple sensation due to nerve damage during surgery or due to irritation from implants rubbing against them over time. Nipple sensation changes can range from mild tingling sensations to complete numbness of one or both nipples depending on how extensive the nerve damage is. In some cases, these changes may be permanent while in others they may subside over time without treatment.
Asymmetry
It is also possible for patients to experience asymmetry after their breast augmentation procedure due to differences in healing between each side of their body or because of incorrect placement of implants during surgery. Asymmetry can also occur if one side of your body has more fatty tissue than the other which could lead to uneven results after surgery. Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks before beginning your procedure so you know what you should expect afterwards.
Preparing for Surgery
Before undergoing breast augmentation surgery, it is important to discuss all the details with your surgeon. This includes discussing the type of implants that will be used, the size of the implants, and any other concerns you may have. Additionally, there are several steps you must take to ensure that you are as prepared as possible for your procedure.
Pre-Surgery Appointment
Your surgeon will likely schedule a pre-surgery appointment with you before your surgery date. During this appointment, they will go over all of the details of your procedure and answer any questions that you may have. Additionally, they will discuss any potential risks or complications associated with your procedure and explain what to expect during recovery.
Lab Tests
Your surgeon may order lab tests prior to your surgery in order to ensure that you are healthy enough for the procedure. These tests may include blood work or an electrocardiogram (ECG). It is important to follow all instructions provided by your doctor during this time in order to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Medications
It is important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements that you are taking prior to surgery. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications in order to reduce the risk of complications during or after your procedure. In addition, they may prescribe antibiotics or other medications for use before and after surgery.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke cigarettes or use any other tobacco products, it is recommended that you quit at least two weeks prior to your surgery date in order to reduce the risk of complications during recovery. Quitting smoking can also help speed up the healing process after surgery.
It is essential that you discuss all aspects of your breast augmentation surgery with your doctor prior to undergoing the procedure in order to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Following these pre-surgery steps can help make sure that everything goes smoothly on the day of your operation and during recovery afterwards.
Questions to Ask your Surgeon
When considering breast augmentation surgery, it is important to ask your surgeon questions about the procedure and the potential risks and complications. Here are some questions you should consider asking:
About Your Surgeon
– Are you board certified in plastic surgery?
– How long have you been performing breast augmentation surgeries?
– How many breast augmentation surgeries do you perform each year?
– Do you have any before and after photos of patients who have had similar procedures?
– What kind of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
– What is the recovery time for this procedure?
About Implants
– What type of implants do you recommend for me?
– What size implants do you think would be best for me?
– Will I need a breast lift in addition to the implant placement?
– What type of incision will be used to place the implant?
Risks and Complications
– Are there any potential risks or complications associated with this procedure?
– How can I reduce my risk of infection or other complications after surgery?
– What should I do if I experience any adverse effects after my surgery?
Follow Up Care
– How often should I follow up with you after my surgery?
– Can I call or email if I have any questions or concerns after my surgery?
Questions to ask surgeon: board certified, experience, risks, complications, follow-up care.
Maintenance and Follow-up Care
Once the breast augmentation surgery is complete, it is important to properly care for the area in order to ensure that healing takes place correctly. Immediately following surgery, patients should follow all instructions given by their surgeon regarding activity levels and wound care. This will typically include avoiding strenuous physical activity, refraining from lifting anything heavy, and keeping the incision site clean and dry.
It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon as instructed. These visits are used to monitor the progress of healing and allow the doctor to check for any potential complications or signs of infection. During these appointments, the doctor may also take additional pictures of the breasts in order to track changes over time.
Self-Care
In addition to following instructions from your doctor, there are some self-care steps you can take at home in order to promote proper healing after breast augmentation surgery. These include:
- Taking medications as prescribed by your surgeon.
- Keeping the incision sites clean and dry.
- Wearing a supportive bra as recommended by your surgeon.
- Avoiding activities that involve strenuous physical exertion.
- Avoiding contact sports or activities that could put pressure on the chest area.
- Not smoking during recovery as this can delay healing.
Regular self-examinations are also important after breast augmentation surgery in order to detect any potential problems early on. patients should look out for any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge around the incision sites. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation and treatment.
Monitor healing, follow doctor instructions, take medications, wear supportive bra, avoid strenuous activity, no contact sports, no smoking, regular self-exams.