Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure conducted to increase breast size or improve shape of the breasts. During the procedure, breast implants are placed directly under breast tissue or under chest muscles. Out of all the cosmetic surgical procedures performed in 2017 breast augmentation was at the very top (300,378 procedures), followed by liposuction and nose reshaping. What makes it so popular? Why do so many women decide to go under the knife? What are the benefits of breast augmentation? What are the risks commonly associated with it? Let’s find out.
Benefits of breast augmentation
The obvious benefit of breast augmentation is the aesthetic result. Women often decide to have their breast size increased if they are unhappy with their underdeveloped or asymmetrical breasts. Breast augmentation can add volume and curves to the whole silhouette, which makes a woman feel more attractive and feminine. The aesthetic result may increase a woman’s self esteem leading to a happier, more fulfilled life, both in a private and professional sphere.
Additionally, women who have undergone this procedure due to breast asymmetry, point out that they can now buy more fitting clothes and look good in dresses and shirts with open necks. Women who previously couldn’t find bras or swimsuits that would fit their asymmetrical chest, can now enjoy shopping without feeling embarrassed.
Breast augmentation may also be a good option for women who have gone through pregnancy and have a problem with sagging breasts caused by breastfeeding. The same problem may also affect women at a more mature age. Breast augmentation can make the breasts appear more perky and youthful. It also restores volume to flat breasts.
Risks of breast augmentation
Risks of undergoing breast augmentation surgery include breast pain, asymmetry, changes in nipple and breast sensation and implant leakage or rupture. Other complications might include inflammation or infections (including Toxic Shock Syndrome), or a rash around the breast. The healing process may also take longer than expected, which may be troublesome in everyday life. Another unexpected complication might be the implant’s visibility through the skin.
Extreme situations include metal poisoning due to platinum exposure from silicone implants, developing an autoimmune disease, memory loss or even death. It is also important to note that implants don’t last a lifetime (5-7 years on average) and a woman might require another surgery to have them removed or replaced.
In conclusion, undergoing a breast augmentation surgery should be a well-thought decision made after thorough consultations with medical specialists.
