Whatever the reason for getting a breast augmentation, the breast implant has the effect of creating a fuller, more shapely, more symmetrical, and more youthful appearance.

Breast augmentation (breast implants) may also be employed to improve mild breast ptosis (the sagging of the breasts). Ptosis is a normal occurrence as the body ages. Ptosis may be increased due to pregnancy, weight loss, breast feeding, and the normal decrease in skin elasticity caused by aging and gravity.

What are the different types of Breast Implants used in a Breast Augmentation?
After you and your surgeon determine your ideal breast size and shape, then you’ll need to select an implant material, an implant shape, and an implant size that will best achieve your desired results.

Essentially there are three types of material used in breast implants. Saline, silicone, and fat grafting. Silicone implants were used about 60% of the time in the year 2010.

There are two implant shapes that are commonly used, round and teardrop.

There is a wide variety of implant sizes available to suit every patient. Typical implant sizes vary between 250 ml and 500 ml.

You and your surgeon will also decide where to place the implant to create the look you prefer. Implants are either placed below the pectoralis muscle (submuscular implant) or between the pectoralis muscle and the breast tissue (subglandular implant).

Breast augmentation is the most common plastic surgery procedure in America. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there were over 296,000 breast implant (breast augmentation) procedures performed in 2010 in the United States, making it the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in America, a title it has held since 2006.

The popularity of this procedure has continued to build over the last decade. Breast augmentation surgery has experienced a 39% increase between the year 2000 and 2010.

A breast augmentation is not the same thing as a breast lift or breast reconstruction, however these two procedures may be combined with a breast augmentation (implant) procedure.

What should you expect at your first breast augmentation consultation with your plastic surgeon?
When you meet with your doctor for your initial consultation, you will want to provide a detailed description for your doctor regarding how you would like to improve your appearance. Think about the specifics beforehand. Write down some notes and important questions before you go to your first consultation.

An experienced, board certified plastic surgeon can normally use breast implants to make minor or major increases in breast size, shape, and symmetry. Expect to have a frank conversation with your surgeon about what you consider to be your ideal goal.

Where can I view before and after photos of breast augmentations?
Review some before-and-after pictures to see the improvements after breast augmentation. View Breast Augmentation Photos.

How much does a breast augmentation cost?
Each patient presents a unique situation, therefore an in-person consultation is needed to get an accurate estimate. Nevertheless, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the U.S. national average surgeon fee for a breast augmentation for the most recent year (2010) was $3,351*.

*This amount only represents the average for the surgeon's fee. It does not include the charges for the anesthesiologist, for the facility where the surgery is performed, or for other associated costs.

Who is a good candidate for a breast augmentation?
A good candidate for a breast augmentation is a woman who is not satisfied with the size, shape, or feel of her breasts. The candidate may want to increase the size of the breasts, or may want to correct an asymmetry in breast size or shape caused naturally or by an operation (such as a partial or total mastectomy). Or the potential patient may simply want to achieve a more youthful and more shapely look. Finally, a good candidate should be in good overall health for her age, should be emotionally stable, and should have realistic expectations.

What are the basic procedures and techniques used in a breast augmentation procedure?
The doctor may use general anesthesia or local anesthesia with heavy sedation. A breast augmentation procedure is normally performed in a surgical center, a hospital or a doctor's office.

The surgery typically lasts from two to four hours. The patient normally returns home the same day that the procedure is performed.

Occasionally the patient will combine a breast lift with a breast augmentation. The breast lift does not affect the size or shape of the breast, but rather is meant to address breast ptosis (sagging) which often occurs as a woman ages. Breast augmentation (implants) may be employed to improve ptosis, especially minor ptosis.

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Information provided is for general education about breast augmentation, breast implants, face lifts, liposuction, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty and other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. This information is subject to change. Smart Plastic Surgery.com does not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, and is not responsible for any actions resulting from the use of this information. General information provided in this fashion should not be construed as specific medical advice or recommendation, and is not a substitute for a consultation and physical examination by a physician. Only discussion of your individual needs with a qualified physician will determine the best method of treatment for you. All board certified plastic surgeons listed are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and/or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Board certified plastic surgeons are verified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

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