Breast Augmentation (Implants)

Breast Implants (Breast Enlargement, Breast Augmentation)

Breast implants are a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure, often referred to as breast enlargement, breast augmentation or a boob job, intended to increase or alter the size of the breasts. The procedure is mostly performed on women; however, male breast implants or pectoral implants have recently gained popularity with men who are unable to obtain a large chest through physical exercise. Breast augmentation can also be used to reconstruct a damaged breast often after cancer and is referred to as breast reconstruction. Breast implants of any kind are considered a major surgery and it is advised that the surgery be performed by a board certified plastic surgeon.

How Breast Implant Surgery is Performed

Breast enlargement is performed by making an incision on or near the breast. There are many types of incisions but the most common are the inframammary incision (under the fold of the breast), the periareolar incision (around the nipple of the breast), and the transaxillay incision (in the armpit adjacent to the breast). After making the incision the surgeon will then insert the implant into the pocket of the breast and adjust it accordingly in order to maximize the aesthetic appearance. Any incisions are then sutured together and the patient begins the long road to recovery.

Types of Breast Implants

The two types of implants used in breast augmentation are silicone gel breast implants and saline breast implants both of which are very popular in the United States. Silicone implants are made of a gel like substance which is less likely to cause aesthetic problems including rippling or wrinkling of the skin around the breast. Saline breast implants stay true to their name and are made of an elastomer filled with salt water (saline). Breast implants come in many different shapes and sizes, it is imperative that you discuss these options with your plastic surgeon in order to find the best size and shape to meet your needs.

Length of Procedure and Required Treatments

The procedure generally takes anywhere from 1 to 2 hours and most patients are put to sleep using a general anesthesia. Before receiving breast enlargement it can take up to several weeks of meeting with your cosmetic surgeon before you are able to determine the size, shape and placement of your new implants.

Recovering from Breast Implant Surgery

Breast enlargement recovery can be very painful for the first couple of days after the operation. Bruising and swelling will last anywhere from 1-2 weeks. It is recommended that you take 2 weeks off of work and any other activity after having surgery and you should wait an additional month before exercising. Overall, it may take a full year before your breasts have settled into a permanent position.

Risks of Breast Augmentation

Breast implant surgery performed by a board certified plastic surgeon is relatively safe; however, there are some risks that you must take into consideration before having breast augmentation. The main risks include but are not limited to rupture, collapse, excess fluid collection, unfavorable scarring, post operative bleeding, dissymmetry and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Cost of a Breast Enlargement

The cost of breast implants will vary according to your geography, individual needs and the surgeon performing your operation. Typically you can expect a price anywhere from $3,000 – $10,000. This price includes the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesia fee, the facility fee and the cost of the implants. Ask your plastic surgeon during a consultation to break down a list individualized costs.

Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?

Are you a candidate for breast implants? If you are at least 18 years of age (22 years of age for silicone implants) and in relatively good health, do not smoke, and want to improve the aesthetic look of your breasts than chances are you are a good candidate. After you do your research and if you determine you would like to get a breast enlargement, than it is time to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon that can help you determine if you qualify for the surgery.

How to Find Board Certified Breast Implant Surgeons Near You

Choosing the right breast implant surgeon can be a daunting task. Surgeons vary greatly in skill, experience and price. It is imperative that you speak with more than 1 surgeon before having a surgery performed on you. Don’t just shop for the best price, although a well priced surgery is a bonus, it is important that you feel comfortable with the surgeon you choose and confident that they will do the job right. Visit our plastic surgery directory for 5 Star Surgeon Network Approval Rated™ Surgeons near You.

For Answers to Frequently Asked Questions see the the FAQ Page for Breast Implants