How is breast augmentation surgery performed?

Breast augmentation should be performed by a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. He or she will have privileges to perform this procedure in an accredited surgical facility, allowing patients to be under full anesthesia for the procedure. Incisions are usually made in the inframammary crease (crease at the base of the breast), around the areola (pigmented skin surrounding the nipple), or within the axilla (armpit). Through these incisions, either a silicone or saline breast implant is placed within the breast. The implants can be placed in front of the chest wall muscle or behind the chest wall muscle.

How can I find a qualified board certified plastic surgeon?

The best resource is the official site of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (plasticsurgery.org). All members of this society are listed on this site.

What are the possible immediate post-operative effects of breast augmentation surgery?

The most obvious immediate effect is an enlargement in breast size. Although it takes several weeks for the breasts to assume their final appearance, the increase in size is obvious immediately. Patients generally experience some pain and pressure in the chest for the first few days after surgery; this is usually well-controlled with prescription pain medications.

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation involves increasing the size of the female breast through placement of either silicone or saline breast implants.

How should one prepare for breast augmentation surgery?

It's important for moms to no longer be breast feeding, be at a stable weight, and undergo a mammogram prior to surgery. Although not completely necessary, it's also helpful to be done having children; future pregnancy could cause changes to the breasts and may necessitate the need for additional operations in the future. It's also helpful to have support from family and friends lined up prior to surgery. Patients need to refrain from strenuous physical activity for 2-3 weeks after surgery and it's very beneficial to have help with children and household chores already arranged.