Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that uses implants to enhance the size and shape of the breasts while maintaining a realistic look and feel. Read on to find out more about implant options and what to expect.

In general, the surgery is performed with a local anesthetic, plus sedation, and takes less than one hour to conduct. It is claimed that most woman are back to near ‘normal’ activity in four to six days, although upper body exercise is usually deferred for two to three weeks thereafter.

What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants are made from an outer layer of silicone, generally filled with silicone gel or saline (salt water). Silicone is a safe substance that has been used in many items, including cosmetics and food.

The implants are usually expected to have an average lifespan of ten years, but sometimes they can last for longer.

While there is no evidence to date suggesting that silicone implants have negative implications on autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis or breast cancer, research on the long term effects are still largely undetermined.

One sure factor to consider though, is that breast implants can interfere with mammography, where the breast is x-ray screened for traces of cancer cells.