1. What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is the enlargement of the breasts by insertion of an implant into the breast area. The implant can be made of silicone elastomer("gel" or "gummy bear") or can be a shell that is filled with saline (the same salt water solution that is used in IV fluid).


2. How should one prepare for breast augmentation surgery?

First decide how large you would like to be. This is easy to simulate using padding in the bra, and wearing tight clothing. Decide what size is right for you - not too big so that you are embarrassed and uncomfortable,but large enough to fill out your figure. Next decide on whether you want saline or silicone implants. Armed with this information, find a surgeon that you like, and explore all of the options.


3. How is a breast augmentation surgery performed?

There are many ways to perform Breast Augmentation, but all of them involve placing the breast implant into a space behind the breast tissue that is created at the time of surgery. Sometimes, the pocket is behind the pectoral muscle as well. In order to create this pocket, an incision is made by areola or by the nipple, under the breast, through the armpit or from the belly button.


4. How can one find a qualified board certified plastic surgeon?

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (plasticsurgery.org) has a list of board certified surgeons in your area.


5. What are the possible immediate post-operative effects in breast augmentation surgery?

Immediately after surgery the breasts will be larger, and also possibly a bit swollen. There will be a feeling of engorgement or even pressure, and this relaxes over time. Bruising may be present but typically resolves in a few weeks, and there is often temporary numbness in parts of the breast.


6. What are the possible longer-term, local effects in breast augmentation surgery?

Longer term, the breast shape can change or the breasts can become firm with progression of the body' s normal scar healing processes. Saline implants can deflate when the shell wears and gets a small leak. Rippling can become apparent, particularly in women with thin skin and not too much breast tissue to camouflage the implants.


7. Who is a good candidate for breast augmentation?

The most common types seeking breast augmentation are women who wish for larger breast size, and women who have lost volume in the upper part of the breast after breast feeding.