Approximately 500,000 breast augmentations were done in 2007 making the procedure the number one sought after cosmetic procedure in the world. As the growth of interest in cosmetic procedures expands, we also realize that most women that have a breast augmentation will also need some type of revision breast surgery at least once in their lives as they age and their bodies continue to change. The average cost for each breast augmentation surgery in the US is approximately $7,000 and most surgeons offer little or no financing options for elective surgeries such as this.

Procedure Details

A breast augmentation is the most commonly used cosmetic procedure among women. It is a surgical procedure that increases the size and possible contour of the breasts by placing an implant beneath the chest wall muscle or directly behind breast tissue using pre-filled implants or implants filled during surgery creating a desired volume.

Breast implants come in different shapes, sizes, and textures. Incisions may be made beneath breasts, in armpits, under nipples, or even through the naval. Other surgical options include endoscopic, expansion, scar less, or sub glandular augmentation. Implants can be filled before or after placement depending on the style you choose. Projection, or profile, is also a consideration. Though different implants may contain the same amount of liquid, the combination of shape and size offers a diverse portfolio of results. Surgery takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Most patients can return to work within 4 to 10 days depending on the surgical parameters. Activities like strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are restricted for 3 to 4 weeks.

A variety of implant materials and manufacturers are available. Mentor saline implants, for instance, consist of an implant shell composed of silicone rubber, filled with a sterile saltwater solution. Mentor Memory Gel implants are silicone rubber implant shells filled with sterile cohesive silicone gel. Ina-med saline implants also consist of an implant shell of silicone rubber, but they are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. Ina-med cohesive gel implants have a silicone rubber implant shell (or double implant shell) filled with a sterile cohesive silicone gel. An evaluation by your surgeon will provide a list of possible options for your unique needs.There are several types of incisions used to get the results that you desire, please discuss these options with the doctor if you have preferences.

Risks and Side Effects

The surgeon will be happy to discuss the risks associated with this surgery in more detail. Risks may include: scarring, bleeding, infection, change in sensation, skin discoloration, breast shape changes, blood clots, pain, reactions to anesthesia, capsular contracture, bottoming out, hematoma, seroma, symmastia, deflation or rupture, rippling, displacement, gel bleed necrosis, Mandor's Cord, and interference with mammography. Most complications of breast augmentation can be repaired, but multiple surgeries may be required. Breast augmentation generally does not interfere with future breast feeding.

Your surgeon will discuss the best type of anesthesia for you, anesthesia is usually administered either by IV or as a general.

Post Operative Care

Surgery is never an exact science. Therefore, although good results are expected, there is no guarantee. If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heart beats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.

Following your physician's instructions will add to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Please review your doctors specific instructions on how to care for yourself after surgery.

After the surgery, expect some pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication. After surgery you will be wearing dressings or bandages over the incisions. You'll also wear an elastic bandage or support bra to minimize swelling and support healing. Also, a thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect, this will be removed before you return home.

Resources

Information about the procedure and answers to the common concerns about breast augmentation from the the official site of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

A long article discussing what breast augmentation is. The perspective is through a woman's vantage point, discussing the pros and cons of the procedure.

This is a personal style entry about the blogger, Sabrina's experiences when she had breast augmentation. A first-hand statement about the whole thing.

FAQ

Q: When will the final results of the procedure be visible.
A: The final results of your breast augmentation will appear over the next few months as breast shape and position continues to settle. Scars will fade over time, but will be permanent. Over time, however, your breasts will continue to change due to age/gravity, but you can help ensure the best results by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Q: How much does breast augmentation cost.
A: Cost is always a consideration in this type of surgery. Prices for breast augmentation procedures can vary widely. A surgeon's cost for breast lift may vary based on his or her experience as well as geographic location. The only way to get you an accurate quote, is to allow the surgeons to see frontal and side view pictures of the area for quote purposes. This information is secure and confidential and we request that you do not take any shots with identifying information (such as face views) for privacy reasons.

Q: What is breast augmentation?
A: Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure where implants are used to either enlarge breasts or to restore lost breast volume due to weight loss or pregnancy, using either silicon or saline implants.

Q: How long does the surgery take?
A: Although it varies from person to person, under anesthetic, the surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Q: What are the risks and side effects of this type of surgery?
A: As with any surgery, some of the risks could include; bleeding, infection, formation of scar tissue around the implant, decreased or increased sensitivity of skin or nipples. You may also suffer from temporary breast soreness, swelling, bruising and change in nipple sensation.

Q: How long will it take for the scars to fade?
A: Although there are different locations on the breast that the incisions might be placed, the surgeon will attempt to make the scars as inconspicuous as possible. It will take a few months to a year, possibly more for the scars to fade. For more information, speak with the surgeon.

Q: When can I return to work?
A: You should usually be able to return to work within a few days. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for at least three weeks. You will have to wait about 1 month to resume sexual activity, swimming and/or hot-tubing, usually the same time that you need to wear compression garments.

Q: Why do I need to wear compression garments?
A: Compression garments or even sports bras help to shape the new breasts, which is a continual process?

Q: Will my breasts feel and look natural after augmentation?
A: That depends on the type of implant you choose to use. Silicon gel implants feel warmer and more natural than saline implants.

Q: Can I breast feed after an augmentation?
A: Yes. Women who breastfeed say it is no more difficult with implants than without.

Q: How long will my implants last?
A: Although there is a 2% deflation rate in the first 10 years, there is no definite answer. They can last between 15-20 years. It is a good idea to get regular checks to make sure that there is no leakage or rupture. Most experts tell women to expect to replace the implants at least once in their life.

Q: Does insurance cover the cost of breast augmentation?
A: Unfortunately, most insurance plans do not cover elective surgeries; however it does not hurt to ask. You can also opt for financing this procedure.