As winter melts from our memories, the longer days, abundant sunlight, and warm breezes (finally!) make everyone a little delirious. Our winter coats and snow boots are packed away, and the warm weather signals the start of the skin-baring season. This change in seasons is a fashion moment — swapping baggy winter clothes that camouflage what’s underneath for refreshing clothing that shows who you are. Unfortunately, for some women, summer is not a time of rejoicing, but a time of remorse. You may hate summer and sunshine, for it reminds one of the unthinkable “s” word- swimsuit; just the thought brings about a longing for the winter camouflage.
Today, breast augmentation is more popular than ever. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, over 364,000 women underwent the procedure in 2005, making breast augmentation the second most popular cosmetic surgery last year. Women in their 30s and 40s are the fastest growing group of patients seeking breast augmentation today.
Once you decide that you want to make that very personal change, your next most important choice is your plastic surgeon. It is most important that he or she be a true plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You should be comfortable with the surgeon’s experience, approach to breast surgery, results, and bedside manner. Other choices to be made together with your surgeon include incision site and implant location.
The type of implant is another option you will have. Breast implants that are approved by the FDA are made of biocompatible material. They have either a smooth or textured silicone shell and the shell shape may be round or contoured. The implants are either filled with saline or cohesive silicone gel. These decisions need to be made after a physical examination and consultation with your plastic surgeon.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and takes about 45 minutes. You will travel home after about an hour or so of recovery and resume most activities within three days.
Following your procedure it is imperative that you maintain an ongoing relationship with your plastic surgeon. Therefore, you should have an annual evaluation done along with routine breast health exam and mammogram screenings.
Your surgeon is there to aid you in the decision making process. Expressing your concerns and your desires will allow him or her to make the most suitable recommendation for you. While making the final decision may be a difficult one, you’ll likely find yourself among the millions of women who say it was the best decision they ever made. •
