What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a very common procedure; over 310,000 were performed last year. Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure where saline or silicone implants are used to increase the size of and improve the shape of the breast. A woman has many options for breast augmentation including type of implant, the size of the implant, the placement of the incision, the shape of the implant, and the placement of the implant. Breast implants for breast augmentation can be either saline or silicone implants. Both are FDA approved. The size of the implant will determine the cup size of the breast postoperatively. The incisions for breast augmentation may be in the crease of the breast, around the areola, or through the armpit. Some physicians place the incision through the belly button. Implants can be either round or tear drop in shape. Placement of the implant can either be in front of the pectoralis muscle or behind it. Both the patient and her plastic surgeon should work as a team to determine the combination of these options for the best size and shape. The procedure can be performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgery center. Usually general anesthesia, intravenous sedation or regional anesthesia can be used. The procedure takes about an hour to perform. Patients should be able to go home the same day. Many plastic surgeons utilize and endoscope or TV camera during the procedure. This allows for smaller incisions and in many instances quicker healing. Drains may be used after breast augmentation. Recovery is quick. Most women are back to work or social activities in a few days. When selecting a plastic surgeon to perform the procedure make sure they are board certified, the use an accredited operating facility, they perform many breast augmentations and that they show before and after pictured of patients that they have operated on. Breast augmentation prices vary by physician on average are between $3000 and $6000.