The Psychology Of Breast Enlargement

For many women, breast enlargement surgery is not only the answer to correcting insecurities regarding breast size, shape, and appearance; it's also a great help in addressing appearance-related issues with self-confidence. For many women, particularly those that have suffered lifelong feelings of self-consciousness and insecurity as a result of their chest size, the availability of implants help to restore a sense of self-confidence and awareness of sexuality. Although surgery isn't a quick fix for women that have chronic issues with low self-esteem or body dysmorphic disorder, many benefit from the added boost of confidence that accompanies augmentation surgery.

More commonly known as breast augmentation or simply "getting implants", the purpose of the surgery is to change the shape, size, and volume of the breasts through the use of implants that are placed beneath the natural breast tissue.. Implants consist of either saline or silicon, and can be easily customized to create a desired look. Breast enlargement surgery is typically sought out by patients who seek a larger cup size, or who wish to restore the natural volume of the breasts, something that is often lost as a result of weight loss or childbirth. The operation is a simple one, often performed on an outpatient basis, and requires 2-3 weeks of rest and recovery time. The cost of breast enlargement varies greatly, and will run an average of anywhere between $3500 and $6000, depending on where the patient lives and where the procedure is performed.

Augmentation surgery not only requires weeks of rest and recuperation for the body to heal and adjust to its' new structure, it also can take a toll psychologically. Many women, even those who feel certain about wanting breast enlargement throughout the entire process, experience feelings of depression, believe their new look is ugly, and regret the choice. This depression is usually a result of medication and anesthesia, post-operative stress, and hormonal fluctuations, but they can be difficult for an unprepared patient to cope with. In addition, after the procedure, swelling and prominent incision marks are visible, leading the patient to fear she's been permanently disfigured. These issues are ultimately temporary, and subside fairly quickly.

By the third week following surgery, most women feel positively about their new shape and are happy with the choice to get implants. However, because these emotional side effects are so common, a patient must have not only a physical but psychological examination conducted before undergoing a breast enlargement operation. A positive and encouraging support network of friends and family can help guide the person through the difficult time following the procedure, and help her feel her choice was indeed the right one for her to make.