Breast Augmentation Breast augmentation uses implants to help women achieve their desired breast size and shape. The reasons for breast augmentation vary from cosmetic purposes to breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. No matter what the purpose, breast augmentation involves the same basic principals, although there are a number of implants and surgical techniques. Breast augmentations almost exclusively use saline-filled implants because of their safety and natural look. (Silicone implant breast augmentations gained national attention when reports of leaking implants were linked to negative side effects. Breast augmentations using silicone have long since been considered safe for use in the United States, and most breast augmentations use implants that are encased in a silicone shell.) Recent developments in breast augmentation use a variety of materials, but saline and silicone remain the most commonly used fillers. Breast augmentation is considered major cosmetic surgery—general anesthesia is administered and the breast augmentation is an “invasive procedure.” For these reasons, individuals should carefully research the process of breast augmentation prior to making a final decision. When selecting a doctor to perform the actual breast augmentation, the prospective patient should verify the physician’s credentials and accreditations. Breast augmentations that are performed improperly can be very costly to fix, if the damage is reparable. Breast augmentations can greatly improve an individual’s personal appearance and confidence but, as with any surgery, a breast augmentation can also have serious side effects. Individuals who are interested in learning more about breast augmentation are encouraged to contact a medical doctor who is familiar with breast augmentation procedures for advice and additional information. Surgical Risks To Breast Surgery All surgery have significant risks and it is always recommended to speak to your doctor and surgeon to discuss the procedures and risks in detail. Other risks include: .hardening of the breasts .loss of sensation in the nipple or .breast shifting of the implant from its original position .interference with mammography .reading that may hamper cancer .detection On top of all this, says Judith Reichman, M.D., a regular contributor to NBC's Today Show, implants are a man-made prosthetic that have a shelf life. Most women will have to go through the whole procedure again–probably two or three times depending upon their age. The following article presented on the msnbc.com web site, in association with the Today Show, gives the best overview that our staff has seen of the dangers of breast implants. Learn More | Natural Breast Enhancement| Breast Augmentation| Breast | Breast Size| Tips for Breast Health|Breast Enhancement Exercises Copyright ©1999-2005, Natural breast enlargement enhancement.com.