When making the decision whether to have breast augmentation surgery, it isn't just the physical side of the procedure that is involved.
The physical side is of course a major factor to consider, as with any surgical procedure there are health risks associated with it such as adverse reactions to anesthetic or potential risk of blood clots, especially for those in higher risk groups such as smokers or overweight people, and post-surgery complications such as bleeding and infection.
However, these risks are very minimal for fit, healthy women undergoing breast augmentation surgery, and a full and thorough health assessment with your breast augmentation surgeon will ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
The psychological side of the procedure is often something that isn't given as much attention as it should be by those considering breast augmentation until they have had a pre-surgery consultation, with the physical side being the main area of concern.
It is important to remember that you are undergoing surgery that is going to change your appearance, and while it will be a positive change, it is still going to take a while to adjust to your new appearance and become used to seeing your new body shape in the mirror.
The first couple of weeks after surgery will be the most anxious as there will be a lot of bandaging initially, which when removed will not only reveal your new breasts but also varying degrees of swelling, bruising and depending on the type of implants and incision used fresh scars that may well appear very red and angry.
As with any type of surgery it will take time for the body to heal itself and even after the initial healing stage, where the swelling and bruising will go down, the scars may still look very visible and fresh.
It can take six months to a year for scars to fully heal, and even then the fading process will continue for sometime afterward.
It is important to protect new scars from sun exposure for at least a year to enable them to heal properly.
It is during this initial healing stage that some women can feel unsure about whether having breast augmentation was the right thing to do, and may even feel some regret about going through the procedure.
It is perfectly natural to feel this way when presented with fresh scars, swelling and bruising and it is important to remember that this will all heal quickly to leave beautiful enhanced breasts.
Remember the surgeon is there to help you through the entire process, including your recovery, so be sure to discuss any concerns about your post-surgery breasts in order to gain peace of mind and reassurance.
It can also be a difficult time for the partners of women undergoing breast augmentation.
The days before surgery may well be a tense time, as the day grows nearer and anxiety tinged excitement starts to creep in, and while it may be difficult it is really important for partners to stay supportive during this time.
Likewise after surgery, it can be difficult to see the one you love in pain and discomfort following surgery.
It is really helpful for partners to speak to the surgeon or support staff at the clinic to find out what they can do to help ease any discomfort in the days immediately after surgery.
Being on hand with ice packs and any pain relief that has been recommended is always going to be a great help.
Once the initial healing period is over, things will get back to normal and you will be back to pre-surgery fitness before you know it.