February 10, 2022
If you ever considered getting a breast augmentation done, you’re not alone! It is currently the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States, and that is unlikely to change anytime soon. Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enlarges the breasts or reshapes them to improve their aesthetic appearance. Many women around the world seek to improve the look of their breasts but aren’t sure what the process involves. The team of experts at Body Cosmetics of Beverly Hills has put together this article to introduce you to the basics of breast augmentation. Continue reading to know what your options are, what steps you need to take, and what the procedure involves. Deciding Whether to Get Breast Augmentation? There are many reasons a woman might opt for breast augmentation. But whatever reason you might have, it can take a lot of time and careful thought when making this decision. You should consider why you want this procedure. This way you know what to discuss with your potential doctor, and can also make sure that it is the right option for you. Reasons for breast augmentation can include: Boosting self-esteem Micromastia (underdeveloped breast tissue) Asymmetrical breasts Sagging breasts due to significant weight loss Post-pregnancy changes Reconstruction needed after a mastectomy Less common but relevant reasons also include the desire to have better-fitting clothes (as most women's clothing is designed for a C cup). Wanting to achieve a perkier, younger look is another reason, as breast shape and volume can change significantly as we age. How to Choose Your Doctor? You must choose the right doctor for a breast augmentation procedure. Here are our essential guidelines for choosing the right cosmetic surgeon: Board-Certified Ensure that any doctor you consider is board-certified in your respective country. For example, qualified American surgeons need to be members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Check Reviews and Testimonials You can find these through their business website, but you should also check reviews on independent sides to get a wider spectrum of experiences. Ask for Before and After Photos Seeing before and after photos is one of the easier ways to ensure that a doctor is a good option for you, and has a history of achieving positive results for their patients. Ask About Experience A doctor may be board-certified as a cosmetic surgeon, but that doesn’t mean they have extensive experience with breast augmentation. You want to make sure your doctor performs these surgeries frequently. What Size and Type of Implants can You get? There are varying implant types and sizes to consider before your procedure. It’s important to choose the right type/size that works best for you. This is something your doctor will be able to help you with. Size This is one of the most difficult factors to consider, as size requirements can vary from woman to woman. Generally, implant size is not based on cup size, but on the patient's body type, size, and expectations. 150 to 200 cubic centimeters is approximately 1 cup size, and typically one implant will hold a maximum 400 cc volume. Your doctor will help to guide you through how different cup sizes will look on your body, so you get an idea of how your implants will look/feel before the procedure. Types Implants are either saline, the traditional implant option, or silicone, a newer type that many women tend to prefer, as they are believed to look and feel more natural. You can also get rounded or teardrop-shaped implants - the former is rounder and more full, whereas the latter is more sloped, and has a more natural, contoured look. What to Expect During the Procedure? The procedure will take between 1 and 3 hours. You will be treated with an anesthetic beforehand to prepare you for surgery. Once it has taken effect, your surgeon will make incisions behind both of your breasts. This is where the implants are placed. Before inserting your implants, the doctor will perform any other tasks previously discussed with you, such as lifting your breasts or moving your nipples slightly higher. Then implants will be placed, breast symmetry checked, and the incisions will be closed. Recovery Tips There are several ways you can make your post-procedure recovery period easier. For example, approved medications like Zofran and Phenergan can help to reduce nausea, and doctor-prescribed skin creams can help to combat swelling, redness, and discoloration. Special garments can also be recommended to help treat swelling and sensitivity. Breast augmentation scars are also a common side effect, so you should protect your breasts from sunlight using sunscreen, and applying topical gels for scar reduction. Your doctor will recommend various methods to ease the recovery process. If you’ve ever wondered, “what is breast augmentation”, we hope you now have your answer. And hopefully, this introduction will help you decide if this cosmetic procedure is for you. As common as breast augmentation is, it is still a serious commitment, and something you want to consider thoroughly before making a decision. For breast augmentation and reduction services, visit Body Cosmetics, our certified ambulatory Surgericenter located in Beverly Hills. Our team is dedicated to providing you with all the information so you can make an informed decision. Your satisfaction is our utmost priority. Call us at +310-858-8646 to speak to one of our specialists or book your first consultation online here