Breast augmentation surgery, also called augmentation mammaplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that uses implants to enlarge and shape the breasts. A new look may give you greater freedom to choose fashions and may give your self-image a boost as well.

Breast augmentation can:

• Bring balance when one breast is somewhat smaller
  than the other
• Restore natural breast volume that may have decreased
  due to pregnancy, weight loss or aging
• Resolve dissatisfaction due to a feeling that breasts have
  not developed to a size that meets expectations

Certain feelings or conditions may indicate that you are ready—and have reasonable expectations—for breast augmentation:

You are a good candidate if you:

• Are bothered by feeling that your breasts are too small
• Have lost weight and the size and shape of your breasts
  have changed
• Have had children and your breasts have become smaller
  and lost their firmness
• Find that dresses fit you well around the hips but are often
  too large at the bustline
• Have one breast that is noticeably smaller than the other
• Feel self-conscious wearing a swimsuit or form-fitting top

First you will:

• Discuss your specific goals with Dr. Swier
• Have your physical examination
• Learn the likely outcomes and potential risks of the procedure
• Get a course of treatment recommended by Dr. Swier
• Ask questions and get answers to help you understand the process

During the consultation, you may have:

• Your breasts photographed and examined for your medical records
• A baseline mammogram recommended by Dr. Swier to assist in detecting any future tissue
  changes in your breasts
• Additional procedures recommended, such as a breast lift procedure, to produce the results you wish

Be sure to:

• Openly share your expectations
• Disclose your complete health history, current medications, and use of vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
• Share the results of past mammograms
• Share any history of breast cancer in your family
• Commit to precisely follow all of Dr. Swier’s instructions

The incision for each beast implant is made in one of two locations: underneath the breast just above the crease or around the lower edge of the areola. The implant is placed either underneath the chest wall muscle or directly behind the breast tissue.

You will be asked to:

• Avoid certain medications that may complicate surgery or recovery
• Stop smoking for a period of time before and after surgery
• Arrange for help or special care following surgery

• Your procedure may be performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center
• If you are admitted to a hospital, your stay will be short, typically one night
• You may undergo local or general anesthesia, depending on Dr. Swier’s recommendation
• You will emerge from surgery wearing a support bra, gauze wrappings or other dressing
• You’ll be taken to recovery where you will be closely monitored

Within one week:

• After the first day, you’ll be permitted to shower
• Your stitches will be removed
• You may feel able to return to non-strenuous activity
• You can resume sexual relations

After several weeks:

• Most of the swelling will subside
• You may stop wearing the support bra
• You may even resume vigorous exercise and arm movements