Breast size is important to many women for a variety of reasons. If you are dissatisfied with your breast size, augmentation surgery is a choice to consider. Breast augmentation can:

• Increase fullness and projection of your breasts
• Improve the balance of your figure
• Enhance your self-image and self confidence

Also known as augmentation mammaplasty, the procedure involves using implants to fulfill your desire for fuller breasts or to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy. Implants also may be used to reconstruct a breast after mastectomy or injury.

Procedural steps: Common incision locations include the breast crease, in the underarm, or around the areola (pigmented skin surrounding the nipple).

Placement of implants beneath the chest wall muscle or directly behind breast tissue using pre-filled implants or implants filled during surgery creates desired volume.

Generally performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation; general anesthesia may be recommended.

Your results: Immediate. Swelling should subside in 2-4 weeks. Incision lines will continue to flatten and fade for up to 1 year.

Implants may need to be replaced: It’s important to know that breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. You should plan for an annual examination by your plastic surgeon to see if the implants need to be replaced.