Breast augmentation

Do you want to upsize, downsize or remodel? All are possibilities for reinventing yourself in the world of breast augmentation.

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is generally summed up as a re-shaping of the breast area, and takes into account;

• Breast enlargements (implants);
• Breast reductions;
• Breast remodelling; and
• Breast liposculpture

What happens during a breast augmentation operation?

A breast augmentation procedure is not for the faint-hearted.In saying that, the procedures are so widely carried out today, that there are plenty of experienced and trusted physicians that you can appoint to ensure your breast augmentation experience is a good one.

The process usually begins with the patient and medical professional deciding upon the right type of breast augmentation procedure - depending on the results you wish to achieve.The physician and patient then set to work on;

• Choosing implants; or
• Determining remodelling shape (especially after a mastectomy); or
• Reducing breast size to a more desirable cup size; or
• Sketching the desired sculpture of breasts which have sagged or suffered surgical procedures.

A breast augmentation operation is carried out in a hospital or cosmetic surgery clinic under general anaesthetic.

Depending on the type of breast augmentation procedure being carried out, a pocket is usually surgically created on the underside of the breast.

This insertion is the used to put in a breast implant or drain residual fluid or fat from the breast. The operation usually takes up to about 2 hours, and the patient is then kept in hospital for about 2-3 days.In some cases, cosmetic surgery clinics have "recovery hotels" for their patients, in which trained nurses visit daily to ensure the breasts are draining and healing correctly. At home care is then expected for about the next 1-2 weeks.

Patients are not allowed to lift heavy objects, and it is usually not suggested they drive for about a fortnight.

Occasionally, as with all operations, complications can arise.Some breast augmentation patients report bleeding after the operation and a difficulty in drawing deep breaths.

Some patients find it hard to lift their arms comfortably for up to 2 weeks, but these side effects usually dissipate within a short period and with proper medical care.

Is breast augmentation right for me?

It is best to discuss whether or not breast augmentation is right for you with a trained and experienced cosmetic surgery physician.Your family doctor can usually refer you to a physician who can help you to achieve your desired results.It is best to discuss the procedure with your family before you undergo surgery, as you will need some assistance during your at home recovery phase.