Breast Augmentation

Hundreds of thousands of women choose to have Breast Augmentation surgery done to increase the appearance, size and shape of their breasts. There are many reasons that women choose to have a breast augmentation done.

  • If they have small breasts
  • If their breasts are not symmetrical
  • When there have been changes in the size or shape of the breasts because of a massive weight loss
  • A reconstruction that is necessary to repair damage after being treated for breast cancer
  • Cosmetic improvements after breast reconstruction
  • For drooping or sagging breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. This would require both breast augmentation and a breast lift.


In order to be considered a good candidate for Breast Augmentation surgery, the person must have a full understanding of the procedure. That includes understanding the risks, the benefits, the costs, and they should also understand that this procedure will not change or fix any current problems they may have in their life. The first place to start is by making an appointment to have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. He or she will ask you questions and examine your breasts, your skin tone and the rest of your body to determine if you are a good candidate or not.

A very important factor to consider when having a Breast Augmentation procedure done is the cost. Most insurance companies will not cover the cost of these procedures because they are elective. The costs will vary depending on the surgeon you choose, the region you will have the surgery done in, the facility the procedure is performed in, what type of surgery will be performed and the type of anesthesia used. The implants cost between $1,000 and $1,300, the anesthesia is between $600 and $800 and the facility fee runs between $800 and $1,200. The total is near an average cost of $5,000 to $15,000.

The Before and After of the Breast Augmentation Process

Choosing to have a breast augmentation is not a decision that should be taken lightly. There are a number of things to consider before you finally decide whether or not you want to go through with the process. A good way to prepare yourself for what may be in store for you is to take a moment to browse a photo gallery on a plastic surgery practice’s website. This is a great way to see firsthand what the end results really look like plus it lets you see the actual results of the work a specific plastic surgeon has completed. A before and after photo gallery is an excellent tool that can help you choose the perfect plastic surgeon.

Viewing Breast Augmentation Photos Online

There are many plastic surgery websites out there that have photo galleries for curious patients to browse through. It can be very helpful if you can find one of these photo galleries for a plastic surgeon’s website in your specific location. If not, your surgeon may also show you some photos in his or her office when you have your consultation appointment. These photos not only show the extreme difference with before and after shots, but they also give you a chance to see the actual scarring, if visible.

Many of the photo galleries available online allow you to choose from photos based on age range, cup size, type of surgery performed, as well as search for photos by a specific surgeon’s name. This is a great tool that can help you compare sizes and shapes if available and see what you like or dislike about a particular surgeon or practice’s end results.

Most breast augmentation photos will show the surgeon’s name along with their contact information, the location of their facility and the website if applicable. Many plastic surgeons these days have opted for this helpful feature in order to bring more customers to their practice, and they have seen plenty of positive results.

Where to Find Breast Augmentation Photo Galleries

It’s easy to find breast augmentation photos online by using any popular search engine. However to receive proper results, you may want to first look for plastic surgeon websites in your area and then see if each individual site has their own photo gallery. These photos are all meant for medical purposes and are to be used to help potential clients make a decision on a future breast augmentation. They will obviously contain nudity so keep that in mind if you are not searching on your own personal computer.

Choosing to get a breast augmentation should be solely up to you. This type of surgery is meant to provide self-confidence for those who have always felt uncomfortable with their breast size. Your plastic surgeon will help you figure out what implant size is right for you based on your body type, anatomy and structure. You should take their knowledgeable opinions into consideration before you make a final decision. By listening to their advice and viewing before and after photos online, you should be able to decide on the right type of breast augmentation for you.

Things to Expect during your Breast Augmentation Recovery

Your own individual recovery time is based on several factors. The type of breast augmentation surgery you had done, if the surgery was done as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with another surgery such as a breast lift, as well as your own personal strength and resilience. Your recovery will not be the same as everyone else’s, but there are a few basic similarities with all breast augmentation recoveries.

Years ago nausea was very common with any type of surgery. This was due to the use of general anesthesia. These days nausea is not a likely problem because there are many medications that can be prescribed to help curve the nauseous feeling.

Pain and swelling are two major complications that everyone has following their breast surgery. This is because the skin is stretched and pulled in order to insert the implants. Ice packs and regular pain medication can usually help ease any discomfort.

The most swelling a breast augmentation patient will experience occurs at around 48 hours after surgery. However, many patients have experienced swelling up to three to four months following their surgery. A sports bra or any other type of well-supported bra can help to relieve some of the swelling. For help with bruising, you can take an herbal supplement such as Arnica Montana. Your plastic surgeon will also give you some suggestions on ways to alleviate swelling and bruising. These solutions can also be helpful for those who have recently had a breast lift as well.

Soreness and pain are usually a result of where the implant was placed, whether on top or underneath the chest muscle. This pain can be lessened with the help of prescription pain medications or OTC medications. You should avoid all NSAIDS such as aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen because they can increase bleeding risks. Ask your plastic surgeon which OTC medications are safe to take following your surgery.

Antibiotics may be prescribed after your surgery to prevent the onset of infection. You should take the antibiotics as described to make sure you will not develop any type of harmful infection.

A drain may have been placed on your incision to drain out any excess fluids. You will need to keep these in place for at least a week or as long as your surgeon instructed you to. You will also need to keep all incision areas and suture lines dry. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about cleaning and taking proper care of the drains, incisions or suture lines before you leave the hospital or surgical center. Your surgeon will remove the drains on your first follow up visit after surgery.

You should avoid any type of heavy lifting or straining and sleep on your back with your head elevated several days following your breast augmentation. Getting out of bed and moving around as soon as you are able to will help to prevent any type of life threatening blood clots in your legs.

By following these tips and the instructions from your plastic surgeon, you should be able to return to normal everyday activities within a few weeks. Your plastic surgeon will let y you know exactly when it is safe to return back to work and normal activity.