Breast augmentation surgery involves inserting an implant into either the submuscular or sub-glandular area of the breast. The procedure may be performed to enhance breast fullness, increase size, or correct some level of undesirable asymmetry or change in breast size and shape.

The types of breast augmentation include:

• Augmentation with silicone breast implants – Prefilled implants that offer a semi-solid structure; similar to a natural breast
• Augmentation with saline breast implants – Inserted empty and filled with a saline solution to the predetermined size preferred by the patient

Before surgery, your surgeon will discuss several points with you about what to expect. You will learn how long the procedure is likely to take and what recovery will involve once the surgery is complete. Breast augmentation is performed in a controlled hospital setting and under general anesthesia soon you remain comfortable.

In general terms, the steps of the procedure will look something as follows:

• You will be put under anesthesia
• The surgeon will make an incision in the breast tissue
• The chosen implant will be inserted and properly positioned
• The incision will be sutured closed

The steps in the process vary according to the type of implant you are getting. During recovery, you may have to wear compression garments to minimize swelling, and it will be important to follow the doctor’s advice about getting rest, managing pain, and avoiding physical activity.