There's another reason why breast augmentation surgeries are most often performed on women in their twenties and thirties (women under the age of eighteen account for only one percent of breast augmentations). Getting implants is a major decision to make at such a young age, particularly when the teen patient is on a quest for immediate gratification. "Young women want to be on the beach or wearing revealing clothes as soon as possible," says Daniels, "They don't want to hear about recovery or scarring or complications, and it can set them up for disappointment."
Is Bigger Better?
If you're thinking about breast augmentation, remember that, like hemlines, breast size is subject to the fluctuations of fashion. Celebs such as Pamela Anderson and spunky designer Betsey Johnson have recently had their breast implants removed. And you can bet that after busty supermodel Gisele has worn out her welcome on magazine covers, she'll be replaced by crop of smaller-breasted models, just as curvy Cindy Crawford was eclipsed by streamlined Kate Moss several years ago.
What's Involved?
The first step in the process is a consultation, which may or may not be free (most patients consult three doctors before settling on one they're comfortable with). The doctor should show you a range of options and explain what's realistic given your natural shape and size. He or she should also provide the names and phone numbers of patients who've had the surgery so you can ask them about their experiences.
The surgery itself, which is performed with either general or local anesthesia, takes only an hour or two. An incision is made under the armpit, along the lower crease of the breast, near the belly button, or along the lower curve of the nipple, depending on the particulars of the implants (see Types of Implants, below). The implant then goes either under the breast tissue or the chest muscle. Finally, the implant is inflated with the amount of fluid that will create the desired cup size.
Types of Implants
Nearly all implants used today are made of silicone and filled with a saline solution. Implants come in two basic shapes. A plastic surgeon will explain the options and recommend one based on the patient's existing tissue and skin type, goal shape, and where the implant is going (under or over the muscle). The two basic types are:
