Breast augmentation — also known as augmentation mammoplasty — is surgery to increase breast size. It involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. For some women, breast augmentation is a way to feel more confident. For others, it's part of rebuilding the breast for various conditions. If you're considering breast augmentation, talk to a plastic surgeon. Make sure you understand what surgery involves, including possible risks, complications, and follow-up care.
Why it's done
Breast augmentation might help you:
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Enhance your appearance if you think your breasts are too small or that one is smaller than the other
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Adjust for a reduction in the size of your breasts after pregnancy
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Correct uneven breasts after breast surgery for other conditions
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Improve your self-confidence
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Discuss your goals with your surgeon so that you can be realistic about what breast augmentation can do for you.
What you can expect
Breast augmentation can be done in a surgical center or hospital outpatient facility. You'll probably go home the same day. The procedure rarely requires a hospital stay. Sometimes, breast augmentation is done during local anesthesia — you're awake and your breast area is numbed. Often, though, breast augmentation is done during general anesthesia, in which you're asleep for the surgery
