breast augmentation

Breasts contribute greatly to a woman's silhouette and are an important part of her overall look. Some women decide their breast size or shape is not in line with the body image they desire. The motivation for change can be purely aesthetic or to correct a breast irregularity, such as uneven size. Breast augmentation, or breast implants can help restore symmetry, recover volume or simply enhance breast size to achieve a new, more pleasing shape.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Women elect to undergo breast augmentation for both medical and aesthetic reasons, including balancing breast size, adding breast volume after child bearing or weight loss, or correcting an abnormality. Breast augmentation involves placing breast implants under the existing breast tissue for a fuller breast. Breast augmentation procedures are generally considered low risk when patients are carefully selected. A consideration with augmentation is the choice between saline or silicone implants; our surgeons will discuss the advantages and risks associated with each option.

As one of the region’s top hospitals, Virginia Mason, in Seattle, offers the expertise of an experienced plastic surgery team in a safe and comforting environment for patients. Every patient’s surgery goals are carefully considered with experienced guidance for balancing desired outcome with a woman’s body type and unique characteristics.

Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within one week.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

In general, women who are generally healthy and non-smokers are ideal candidates. Our surgeons spend significant time listening to their patients and establish shared realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery through a unique operative plan to address each patient’s individual goals. The initial consultation with one of our plastic and reconstructive surgeons will include:

  • A discussion of goals and expectations for the procedure. A surgeon will review options to develop an individualized surgical plan that will balance goals, anatomy, and the current techniques that are available.
  • The care team will review what to expect before and after the surgery, including the risks and anticipated benefits to the procedure. Any medical issues that might affect the procedure’s outcome are carefully reviewed.
  • Patients are encouraged to ask questions and discuss concerns during this visit.

You can also check out the RealSelf breast augmentation site for forums, Q&As, and other information from the community about breast augmentation.

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