Breast augmentation, or more technically mammoplasty, is a procedure used to enlarge a woman’s breasts by inserting implants.

Breast enlargement is a woman’s personal decision. There are many reasons why women get breast implants. Some women feel their breast size is too small, some would like to achieve symmetry when one breast is noticeably larger than the other.

Breast augmentation surgery can also be used to restore breast size after pregnancy. It can also be used in combination with a breast lift to improve the overall shape of the breasts. It’s important to remember the implants are not guaranteed to last for a lifetime. They may have to be replaced with additional surgeries.

There are currently two different kind of implant available. One type is filled with an elastic silicone gel; the other type is filled with sterile salt water solution. Both types of implants have a solid silicone shell. Implants vary in size, texture and shape. The particular type of implant used depends on the preferred increase in size, body type and breast structure.

The incision can be made in a variety of places: around the nipple, in the armpit, or in the lower area where the breast meets the chest. The breast implant is inserted into an artificial pocket which is created by raising the breast tissue. This pocket can either be made behind the breast tissue or under the pectoral muscle, on top the chest wall.

The incisions are usually closed with surgical tape or skin adhesive, not stitches.

The implants may malfunction at some time after the surgery, so it is important to have check-ups every year. Some women develop infections at the site of the implant. In this case, the implants must be removed to cure the infection, and another pair can be inserted at a later time.

Silicone breast implant surgery costs around $7000 while the saline version is about $1000 more expensive. However, remember that implants may have to be replaced every few years.

It’s important to not get oversized implants and discuss the optimal shape and size based on your body type with your surgeon.