A casual walk through the bookstore or a flip through a popular fashion magazine makes it very clear that America is a nation obsessed with personal image. Along with image, we strive for self-esteem and sometimes even perfection. For some, the choice to undergo the popular plastic surgery procedure known as breast augmentation is one way to get closer to our personal concept of the ideal body. Although breast augmentation does not change the individual, it does increase self-confidence when a woman is happier with the way she looks.

Not all women, however, choose breast augmentation simply for looks. Some women deal with issues of asymmetry, which can make it difficult to fit properly into bras or clothing. Others need reconstructive breast surgery due to breast cancer or a trauma. Other motivations include:

· Breasts that are too small

· Sagging breasts due to aging

· Changes in breast size or shape due to pregnancy

Regardless of the reason, increasing numbers of women who are not satisfied with their breast size and shape are turning to breast augmentation as a solution to improving breast size, shape and fullness and enhancing self-esteem.

Good candidates for breast augmentation

· Are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts

· Suffer from a poor self-image

· Are in good physical and emotional health

· Maintain a healthy diet and get regular exercise

· Do not smoke

· Have reasonable expectations for the outcome

Understanding the breast augmentation procedure is crucial to comprehending potential risks and your final surgical results. Consulting with a fully-qualified cosmetic surgeon is the best way to become thoroughly informed and have the opportunity to ask questions before making your final decision.

It All Begins with Your Consultation

It could be said that your breast augmentation procedure begins with your surgical consultation, follows through to the actual surgery, and concludes with your postoperative recovery. The entire process can take weeks or months to complete, and honest communication between you and your surgeon is vital to a successful outcome.

Telling your surgeon about your personal, social, and medical history is important. Your doctor will explain about different types of implants and different sizes, offering his or her best advice as to what is best for you. And finally, you’ll receive detailed pre- and post-operative instructions which you should follow exactly to avoid complications.

The surgery itself takes about two hours and is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. But the way you’ll feel about yourself when your breast augmentation is complete lasts for a lifetime.