Breast Augmentation, also known by its medical term: augmentation mammoplasty, can be an option if you are dissatisfied with the size of your breasts. The procedure involves using implants to fulfill your desire for fuller breasts or to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy.

Breast augmentation performed by a skilled surgeon can:

• Make a difference in your self esteem
• Provide improved fullness, shape, and projection of the breasts
• Minimally enhance symmetry (balance) and proportion to the overall figure

Breast augmentation alone will not correct severely droopy breasts or severe asymmetry. Check with the doctor to see if you would be a good candidate for a breast lift or breast reconstruction, as an alternative or in addition to an augmentation.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Like any cosmetic, elective surgery, the decision to proceed with a breast augmentation is a highly personal one. Only you can decide if improving the volume of the breast tissue will have the desired effect. Your own diligent research, along with an in-depth consultation with the surgeon and his staff will help provide the information you need to make a good decision. The most satisfied cosmetic surgery patients are those who have realistic expectations and full knowledge of the procedure AND have selected an experienced, innovative cosmetic surgeon. The right kind of surgeon is one who is willing to perform a highly customized procedure focused on the best cosmetic results—irrespective of the type/brand of implants or surgery technique required to achieve that result.

There are some criteria, from a medical standpoint, that will (as a minimum) determine if you are a good candidate for breast augmentation:

• You are physically healthy.
• Your breasts are fully developed.
• You have no adverse medical conditions, and are undergoing no adverse medical treatments.
• You have a current, clear mammogram (if over age 40).
• You have had no lactation (breast feeding) for the past 6 months.

Some other personal considerations:

• You have realistic expectations.
• You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too small.
• You are dissatisfied with your breasts losing shape and volume as a result of pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.
• Your breasts vary in size or shape.
• One or both breasts failed to develop normally.