Breast enlargement, or augmentation mammoplasty, enhances the body contour of a woman who is unhappy with her breast size. It may also be used to correct volume loss after pregnancy, or to help balance breast size asymmetries, as well as a reconstructive technique following other breast surgery. The operation is carried out under general anesthesia and usually on an outpatient basis. An implant (prosthesis) may be placed through an incision, under the breast tissue or under the muscle or through an incision in the belly button region. The incision can be made under the breast, around the nipple or in the armpit. It generally takes one to two hours to complete the entire procedure. A breast implant is usually composed of an outer silicone shell filled with saline (salt water). The outer surface may be smooth or textured, and implants come in various shapes to meet the individual woman’s needs.

While breast augmentation will enlarge the breasts, it will not alter basic defects in breast shape or form. Major asymmetries may be improved but will not be completely corrected. A slight difference in the size or shape of the two breasts is considered normal and should not be a cause for concern. If breast size or nipple position asymmetries are severe then additional procedures to further improve symmetry may be necessary. Long experience with this operation has demonstrated it to have highly satisfactory results for the majority of patients who are considered suitable candidates for the surgery.