Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that enlarges the size and improves the shape of a woman's breast. Breast augmentation is helpful to almost any woman, but specifically for a woman who feels her breasts are too small and desires to enhance her body contour. It is also helpful to many women in restoring breast volume that is lost during or after pregnancy and weight loss. Similarly, it can be utilized to balance asymmetric breasts or as a reconstructive technique following breast cancer surgery.

During breast augmentation, implants (saline or silicone) are inserted through an incision - usually made just above the breast crease, around the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple, or in the armpit - and placed into a "pocket" created by the surgeon behind the breast tissue or the chest muscle. Breast augmentation is requested to add volume to small or underdeveloped breasts, or to restore volume lost as a result of weight loss, childbirth, or aging.

Breast augmentation can be performed at any age after the breasts are fully developed, but there are regulatory restrictions on the use of breast implants in women younger than 18. There is no scientific evidence that breast augmentation increases the risk of breast cancer, autoimmune disease or any systemic illness, nor is there evidence that breast implants affect pregnancy or the ability to breast feed. In addition to the positive aesthetic outcomes of breast augmentation, data has shown that many patients enjoy substantial psychological benefits, including enhanced self-esteem. This leads to a greated confidence and most often a better social and professional life.

It is helpful to you and your surgeon to review pictures of different breasts to determine the size and look that you desire. Bring the pictures of breasts you wish to attain in to review with your plastic surgeon to determine if that look is attainable with your natural breast shape. In addition to reviewing the different types of implants he or she will also assist you in determining the size you choose by providing you with breast implant sizers. You should anticipate that your breasts will look and feel fuller, firmer, and perkier. During your consultation with your plastic surgeon you will discuss many different aspects of the surgery itself. What to expect, how the surgery is performed, before and after care, etc. The most important thing will be your plastic surgeon answering any questions you may have.

Dave Stringham, the President of LookingYourBest.com writes about plastic surgery in Southern California and cosmetic surgery procedures like southern california breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, breast implants, and breast reconstruction.

Tags: breast implants, breast augmentation, breast surgery, beauty, southern california, augmentation mammoplasty