Breast Augmentation: What You Should Know About

According to the 2010 report of American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation remains to be the top cosmetic surgical procedure of 2009. In 2008, an estimated 307,000 cases of breast augmentation were filed and although there is a 6% decrease in 2009, this surgical procedure still remains on top of the list.

Breast augmentation, otherwise known as augmentation mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to enlarge (or augment) breasts in order to achieve a fuller appearance. Others opt for this procedure for breast reconstruction purposes to restore breast volume, which may have been lost due to mastectomy, trauma, or congenital deformity.

In order to augment breasts, implants are used. Implants are breast-shaped prosthesis that are made of silicon covering and either silicone gel or saline (salt water) filling. 

Typically, the procedure is done on an out-patient     basis which usually takes two hours. The process starts with administering anesthesia which can either be under local or general anesthesia. Incision is then made around the areola, in the armpit or under the breast, depending on the type and size of the implant. The method by which the prosthesis is inserted also depends on the said conditions and after which, the incision will be closed.

As with any surgery, breast augmentation surgery has associated risks which include bleeding, infection, unfavourable scarring or fluid accumulation. Other risks associated with the surgery may be related to the implant itself such as obstructed mammography or capsular contracture, where a firm scar forms around the implant. And although most mortality cases are associated with anesthesia or medication errors, death associated with breast augmentation are extremely rare. Another important consideration that women should take note is that there are no lifetime guarantees with breast implants. And so before going into the procedure, women should weigh the pros and cons and decide, “Are you a good candidate for breast augmentation?”

Aromatherapy and Its Important Benefits to the Mind and Body

Aromatherapy is an alternative form of medicine that is used to relieve pain and stress.  This form of treatment employs essential oils for its aromatic properties that are believed to influence a person’s mood, thinking, mind-set and function.

The first known use of aromatherapy dates back to more than 5000 years ago. Back then, the people from Egypt pay tribute to the Egyptian gods by burning herbs, spices and woods in order to send their prayers to the heavens through the risen smoke.

Today, aromatherapy is used because of its medicinal value. Although it has not been proven that aromatherapy cures major diseases, it is on the other hand, known to be effective in lessening the pain and discomfort that are related to such conditions.

Aromatherapy can be used in three different ways. First is by applying it directly to the skin, also known as topical application. This is the method of application used for massage and baths like those from the spa. Topical application of aromatherapy benefits you in one of the following ways:

• Tissue and muscle repair of lesions, injuries, cuts or abrasions.
• Muscle relaxation
• Better sleep at night
• Improved circulation of blood
• Relief from inflammation
• Enhanced skin suppleness

Second, aromatherapy can be infused through inhalation of oil or infusion vapors. This is beneficial to the body such as:

• Relief of nasal congestion
• Relief of Lung infection that may be caused by bacteria and fungus
• Aids in expectorating phlegm
• Better sleeping pattern

Lastly, diffusion of oils in the air is another way to infuse aromatherapy. This method allows the aromatic smell to be utilized by circulating the aroma through the air. The smell may help the body and mind by:

• Alleviating headaches
• Energizing the mind and body
• Producing calming effects

In addition to that, aromatherapy is advantageous to the mind and body in a lot of ways. It helps relieve mind problems such stress, anxiety and depression and this in turn may also lower the blood pressure. With aromatherapy, you will also improve the circulation of your blood which in turn helps eliminate unwanted toxins and improve wound healing process.

Your immunity against certain illnesses and infections is also improved with this alternative medicine by improving your resistance. Aromatherapy also results in enhanced digestion. For women, you can also get relief from menstrual cramps.

There are a lot of oils and infusions that can be used in Aromatherapy. You can choose from a broad range of essential oils based from the scent you prefer and healing properties of each kind of oil. Simply put, aromatherapy has a long list of benefits to the body. It is a great, natural, inexpensive and effective way to alleviate certain signs, symptoms and conditions. And with practically no known disadvantage of its use, Aromatherapy is definitely one great alternative medicine that is worth a try.