Deciding to go "under the knife" and get plastic surgery is a major decision. Breast augmentation is the leading cosmetic surgery in America. There is a great deal of information about this surgery, so this article will identify the major pieces of information that should be considered when electing to get a "boob job". Because of the level of controversy surrounding breast augmentation photos and some pictures of surgeries gone bad floating around the Internet, it is important to be well informed about the types of implants available, the potential risks, and the attributes to look for in the surgeon chosen to complete the surgery. For planning purposes it is also important to understand the recovery timing and how long one would potentially need to be away from work and regular activities within their lifestyle. The more informed an individual is, the more easy the decision making process becomes.

It is simple to identify the desire to have larger or perkier breasts, however, it is necessary to understand all that goes into the process. Once informed on the pertinent topics surrounding the surgery, the decision to move forward and get the surgery becomes much less stressful and much more exciting for the patient.

There used to be several types of implants on the market during the 1980s and 1990s. Today the only two acceptable implants are Saline and Silicone. Saline implants are ideal for a scenario where a smaller incision is desired. This is because the saline implant is just a shell when inserted. After placement, the shell is filled with a saline substance. The saline implant can offer great results, but does have more occurrences of tearing and wrinkling which cause some cosmetic dissatisfaction. The saline implant is mostly recommended for patients having more breast tissue.

For those with less breast tissue, in general, the silicone implants are more suited. Silicone gel implants have undergone an evolution over the life span of the product. The current product is more solid than past silicone implants. The more solid design has proven to eliminate the possibility of silicone substance migrating elsewhere into the body. Regardless of the type of implant chosen, the minimal recovery time is one week. The implants that are placed underneath the muscle does require a longer recovery of approximately six weeks. The visible scarring from the incision will usually last for a few months and then will fade away. The risks associated with the breast augmentation are typically rupture and leakage.

The silicone implant is more controversial in the severity of the risk of leakage because it is often not known when the leakage has occurred. When the saline implant leaks, it tends to deflate and can be caught right away and removed. There are also some controversial statements regarding toxins which may be inherent in the lining of the silicone implants. There is no definitive evidence this is true, however, concerns exist.

Because of all of the controversy, it is important the a surgeon who is able to provide objective information and has a proven track record of success. It is important to choose a surgeon who has the ability to operate in a state-licensed hospital. Choosing a surgeon who is board certified is also important. From there, look for testimonials and before/after pictures at the surgeons office. A strong feeling of a good rapport with the surgeon is also important. How easy is it to share concerns and issues with the prospective surgeon? It is important to feel comfortable that the surgeon understands what is expected and desired.

Elective surgery like breast augmentation is a big decision. One that should be made carefully and after a great deal of research and evaluation. It is also important to understand the reason the surgery is desired. If there is an overall body image problem, the surgery is probably not going to get rid of that. One should have realistic expectations regarding the desired results and should express those expectations with their doctor. Individuals who are being pushed into getting implants due to a spouse, boss, or some other external influencer, are not good candidates. It is important that the candidate be in good general health.

In the following video you can listen to a doctor explaing the procedure of an breast augmentation surgery and the differences between saline implants and silicone implants. He has some really valuable information here so it is worthwhile to see.