What Is Breast Augmentation?

For women who wish to change, shape or alter their bust line, often the best course of action is to undergo breast augmentation surgery. Once a top surgery among the rich and famous, this procedure is more common than you may realize. Since there are many different ways a woman can alter her bust, it is important to do some research before committing to a procedure.

Bust enlargement is often the first thing that comes to mind when most people think of breast augmentation. The procedure is exactly what it sounds like; implants made from artificial materials are surgically inserted the purpose of enlarging a woman's chest. Sometimes this is done to correct chests of different sizes, restore shape, or reconstruction following a mastectomy. The surgery is usually an out patient procedure, meaning that after the surgery the woman is sent home to recover, rather than staying in a hospital overnight.

With this type of procedure, there are two options for women to choose from for their artificial inserts. The difference in cost between the two options is minimal, but saline and silicone implants come in different sizes and create difference effects. Saline implants are perhaps the safest option since they are filled with sterile salt water that will simply be absorbed into the body in the event of a leak. Silicone implants are filled with a gel that affords women who opt for it a more natural look. Both types are widely available and the decision often comes down to preference.

Prior to undergoing breast augmentation surgery, it is important for you to find the right surgeon to perform the procedure. Since the procedure has become so popular, you will want to make sure you find a surgeon with good credentials and a track record of success. A consultation with them will not only give you a better sense of their style but can also give you a better idea of what a reasonable result will be for your body type. During your consultation, it is appropriate to ask the surgeon to provide you with examples of similar surgeries they have done. That way, you can rest assured you are in good hands before going under the knife.

Since every woman's body is different, your breast augmentation should be unique to you. While certain looks or styles of implants may be popular, it is important that decide on the right kind of surgery to suit your desires. While many women seek out the procedure to correct busts they feel are asymmetrical or too small, others undergo surgery simply because it boosts their self-confidence. For women who have undergone a mastectomy - the removal of tissue and a common cancer treatment - breast augmentation allows them to regain a body shape similar to the one they had prior to a mastectomy. Many find it empowering to look as though they never had a mastectomy at all.

Whatever the reason, by putting some thought into the type of implant and look you want to achieve, you will be sure to have a successful surgery!