Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Reasons To Consider Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is one of the most common forms of aesthetic cosmetic surgery performed in Australia and elsewhere. Every year, thousands of women make the decision to undergo this procedure. The reasons that drive them forward, however, are as varied as women themselves.

According to Australia's Department of Health and Aging, there are several predominate reasons women cite for undergoing breast augmentation surgery. They include:

Cosmetics - Many women choose to have breast augmentation surgery simply to improve the appearance and/or size of their breasts. Cosmetic motivators are common for women who feel their breasts are too small, too misshapen or even asymmetrical. It is not uncommon for women who have had children to seek out breast augmentation to increase lift and reduce sag. This surgery, when performed by a skilled surgeon, can dramatically improve and enhance breast appearance. When breast augmentation is performed for cosmetic reasons, a self-esteem improving factor also tends to come into play. The surgery itself is not a panacea, but it can have a big impact on self-esteem.

Reconstruction - Some women elect to have breast augmentation surgery following a mastectomy. Although reconstruction is not 100 percent necessary following mastectomy, this surgery can give cancer survivors a more natural appearance and help them overcome self-esteem issues that can arise as a result of mastectomies.

Replacement - Many breast augmentation procedures are performed to replace existing implants that were put into place either for cosmetic or medical reasons.

Correction - Women who face congenital deformities in their breasts often opt for augmentation to gain a natural appearance.

DECIDING IF BREAST AUGMENTATION IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Breast augmentation surgery can give a woman a fuller, more symmetrical and even natural appearance. Whatever your reasons for considering this surgery, it is important to make sure this is the best option for you. While breast augmentation can greatly enhance appearance and boost self-esteem, it is not a miracle cure for what ails you. The best surgeons will make it clear that breast augmentation is an enhancement, not a life changing move, per say. While it can have very positive effects on confidence levels, breast augmentation will not change who you are on the inside.

To decide if breast augmentation is right for you, consider:

Your motivations - Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure. With this in mind, it is very wise to examine personal motivations closely.

The risks - The risks of breast augmentation surgery are very minimal when a skilled surgeon and staff oversee the procedure. Still, weighing the risks with the potential benefits is always in order if surgery is under consideration.

The goals - If breast augmentation surgery is desired to improve appearance and add to confidence, the goals will likely be met. Goals, however, should be realistic and they should be conveyed clearly to the surgeon. It is terribly important that both the patient and the surgeon are on the same page in regard to outcome expectations.

There are a host of reasons to consider breast augmentation surgery. When women approach the topic with an open mind and honesty, many find this enhancement is one that can improve appearance, boost self-esteem and just simply help increase confidence.

By Dr Zion Chan