The decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery is a big step for anyone. While breast augmentation is a common procedure, surgery of any kind can involve potential risks.

The good news is that most women who undergo breast augmentation surgery report being happy with the new shape and size of their breasts. While complications can occur, the risks can be reduced if you choose a qualified surgeon experienced in cosmetic plastic surgery. This article discusses typical results and expectations from breast augmentation surgery.

Am I A Good Candidate For Breast Augmentation Surgery?

The best candidates for breast augmentation surgery are those who may be unhappy or self-conscious about the size, shape or degree of droop of their breasts, but are otherwise healthy, well-adjusted and don't expect the surgery to transform their lives. Breast augmentation surgery should not be done to please others, it should be something that you decide to do because of how you feel about yourself.

Breast augmentation surgery needs to be carefully considered if you have any health conditions that may make the surgery or an anaesthetic risky. Your surgeon will consider all the risks involved and advise you on the merits of proceeding with surgery given your particular circumstances.

What Side Effects Might There Be?

Some of the normal, temporary side-effects that you will experience after your breast augmentation include:

• bruising around your breasts, which should fade over the next 7-10 days
• chest pain or discomfort from the muscles being stretched to accommodate your breast implants and a sense of “weight” on your chest from the implants
• pain during arm movement which can last for 2-3 days after surgery
• pain involving your arms and back because you may be sleeping in a different position and your posture may be different. Slow gentle stretches can help reduce the discomfort
• itch around the suture line which is part of the healing process

It is important to be patient as your body heals and closely follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. The final results from your surgery can take several months before for the swelling subsides and the scars fade.

How Will My Body Change?

Listen to the advice of your surgeon when deciding on the size and placement of the implants. They will use their experience to guide you in regard to the choice of implant which will give you the optimal results. Most surgeons will let you 'test out' implants by trialling them in a bra so that you can get an idea of how you might apear. You should also ask to see before and after photos during your consultation with your surgeon. Australian law prevents surgeons form putting before and after photographs on their website, but they will be happy to show you the before and after photographs during your consultation.

Several research studies surveying women after breast augmentation have shown that the majority of women are very satisfied with the shape and size of their new breasts, and importantly, report being happier with their body image and having greater self-esteem. They feel more feminine and attractive and report that the quality of their lives has improved.

Next Step

If you are considering breast augmentation surgery and have questions you would like to ask, or if you would like to book a confidential consultation at a cost of $140, click below or call (03) 9088 5000 for the Melbourne practice or (07) 3180 3400 for the Brisbane practice. The Cosmetic Surgery Co-ordinators of NorthEast Plastic Surgery will organise a consultation with Mr Tansley or Dr Seneviratne who are highly qualified and experienced surgeons. They will assess your individual requirements and discuss your preferences in regard to breast augmentation surgery.