If you often wish that your breasts were larger, fuller or shapelier, breast augmentation surgery may be the right choice for you. Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that uses implants to enlarge and shape the breasts. Your new look will bring you greater freedom and fashion and may give your self-image a boost as well.

Figure A. Incisions are made to keep scars as inconspicuous as possible, either underneath the breast just above the crease, around the areola, or in the armpit.		Figure B.   Figure C. The breast implant is placed either: B. underneath the chest wall muscle or C. directly behind the breast tissue.		Figure D. After surgery, scars will fade with time.

How is breast augmentation performed?

The incision is small and is usually made in one of three locations: underneath the breast just above the crease; around the lower edge of the areola; or within the armpit.
(See Figure A.)

Once the incision is made, a pocket is created into which the implant is inserted. This pocket is made either directly behind the breast tissue or beneath the pectoral muscle located below the breast tissue and above the chest wall. (See Figures B and C.)

How will I look and feel right after surgery?

Within a day or two after surgery, you should be up and around. Most of the discomfort that you feel can be controlled with medication prescribed. Although everyone heals at a different rate, you can expect that your recovery will follow this general timeline:

Within one week:

You'll be permitted to shower
Your stitches will be removed (unless dissolving sutures were used)
You may feel able to return to non-strenuous work
You can resume sexual relations (as long as the breasts are treated gently)

After several weeks:

Most of the swelling will subside and you'll start to see your final results
You may discontinue wearing the support bra
You may resume vigorous exercise and arm movement
Scars will fade with time (See Figure D.)