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Breast enlargement is a serious surgery with many potential complications. We answer the most common questions.
The basics about breast enlargement surgery. The more you know about what to expect, the better prepared you are.

Breast enlargement surgery

Breast enlargement surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the US, with hundreds of thousands of women pursuing the procedure every year. Breast enlargement surgery is a highly personal decision, and women chose to undergo the surgery for a wide variety of reasons.

In general, if you discuss your breast enlargement surgery at length with your doctor, and have realistic expectations of the results of the surgery, you'll likely be pleased with the results. Those who educate themselves before pursuing breast enlargement surgery are the most likely to be satisfied with their final, new shape.

Breast enlargement prices

Breast enlargement surgery can be extremely expensive. Prices vary depending on the location and the individual surgeon, but quotes often run from $4,000 - $10,000. And that's not counting additional expenses you might incur if your initial surgery doesn't live up to your expectations.

In addition, breast implants only last seven to twelve years on average, and if an implant ruptures or leaks at any time, it must be removed or replaced--another surgical procedure with a big price tag.

Breast enlargement surgery risks

Breast enlargement surgery carries the same risks as any other major, invasive surgical procedure. These include infection, complications of anesthetics, excessive scarring, necrosis, and other possible complications, some of which, in rare cases, can be fatal.

Breast enlargement surgery also carries its own set of possible complications. Among these are capsular contracture, shifting of the implants after they've been placed, implants that are too visible, or other general dissatisfaction with the appearance of your post-surgery breasts.

Capsular contracture happens when tissue that naturally forms around your implant, referred to as a capsule, hardens and tightens, sometimes causing pain. It requires removal of the implants as well as the capsule, then reinsertion of the implants. Shifting implants also requires additional surgery to correct.

Breast enlargement without surgery

If you don't wish to incur the expense of breast enlargement surgery, or don't want to risk the complications, there are alternatives that can enlarge your breasts without surgery. These are usually herbal treatments, in the form of either a pill or creams. Usually, the herbs in these treatments have a hormone-like effect on the body, causing the breasts to enlarge.

Be sure to research breast enlargement creams and pills to see which ones might work best for you. And be sure to consult with your doctor before taking breast enlargement supplements along with any other medications you might be taking to avoid unpleasant interactions.

If you're not happy with the size of your breasts, and don't want to have breast enlargement surgery, non-surgical alternatives might be just what you're looking for.

How much does it cost?

Finding a Doctor
You know you want your plastic surgeon to be board-certified. Be sure to work through our checklist before you make your first appointment.

Recovery time

Recovery time
Breast enlargement surgery is associated with side effects and downtime. Know what to expect.

How much does it cost?

Breast enlargement surgery pricing is highly dependent on geography. Top doctors charge higher prices. Even the cost of breast implants varies greatly. Learn more about the variables in the cost of breast enlargement.