Augmentation mammaplasty is typically performed to enhance the shape and contour of small breasts, underdeveloped breasts or breasts that have decreased in size after a woman has had children. The procedure is accomplished by surgically placing an implant behind each breast.  Depending upon their desired goals, and preferences, women have the choice of both saline and silicone memory gel implants.

Breast augmentation should not be viewed as a simple operation. To achieve excellent results in every patient entails a fair amount of planning,  taking into consideration a multitude of factors including: the person's height, weight, body habitus, chest wall measurements, and their desired breast size and shape. Sometimes the position of the patient's nipple may be low secondary to ptosis (sagging).  Consequently, it may be necessary to perform a breast augmentation in conjunction with a mastopexy (breast lift) if the best result is to be obtained. As always, communication between physician and patient is crucial.  The physician must weigh and convey other, additional, considerations which include indications and decisions on optimal implant location (behind the breast tissue or behind the muscle), implant type (saline or silicone), implant surface (smooth or textured), and incision placement (armpit, around the areola or beneath the breast). Each consideration should be individualized to each respective patient.