Having a cosmetic procedure to enhance or improve the body or face is no longer something mostly enjoyed by celebrities or the rich. In fact, according to information provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, approximately 15.6 million total procedures were performed in 2014, up 3 percent from the number performed in 2013. Breast augmentations accounted for more than 286,000 of these procedures. If you are considering a breast augmentation, the following information will help you determine if it is a good choice for your body and your lifestyle.

Learn as much as you can about the procedure and aftercare.

A patient who is undergoing a breast augmentation, like any other surgical procedure, can expect to have a complete range of care, including before and afterward. When meeting with the patient before the procedure, the surgeon will be able to give the patient important details regarding the specific type of breast augmentation surgery they have chosen, such as:

• the type of anesthesia that will be used and what side effects can be expected
• the amount of time required for the surgery and details about the specific procedure
• actions the patient must take to prepare for the procedure
• what the patient can expect after the surgery, including the levels of pain and discomfort and how they will be managed
• the aftercare regimen, including hygiene, exercise and pain management
• when the patient can expect to resume normal difficulties
• the length of time expected for swelling and discoloration to subside
• what to do if abnormal pain or signs of infection are noted

Consider implant size carefully

Every patient's body and lifestyle are different and these differences should be carefully considered before any decision to have any type of cosmetic procedure is made, especially breast augmentation. If the implant size is too large, the patient may experience discomfort, such as back pain, when doing normal daily activities. If the chosen implant size is too small, however, the patient may experience unhappiness about the end results of the procedure and experience remorseful feelings.

Some things to consider when choosing implant size: 

• do you participate in any strenuous or active sports and activities that may be affected by implant size
• what type and style of clothing are you most comfortable in and how will your choice of clothing be affected by implant size
• do you have any health or physical issues that might be affected by implant size

Before making a final decision on whether or not breast augmentation surgery is the right choice for you, take the time to consult with a reputable plastic surgeon in your area who specializes in this procedure. They will be able to answer all your questions and help you understand the complete process from preparation through recovery, as well as what your body will look like after the procedure. For more information, consider contacting a professional like those at the Body Spectrum Plastic Surgery Center - Bruce R Barton MD.