Thinking of Getting a Boob Job? Read This First

For over ten years, boob jobs have been the most common cosmetic procedure in the United States. Actually, approximately five percent of women have undergone breast augmentation, and even more women have seriously considered it. However, there are some things you need to know before taking the plunge.

There are generally seven breast shapes, and it is important to know which shape you have and which shape you want before going in for a procedure. This has nothing to do with "big" or "small," which is generally how breasts are categorized. Breasts are typically categorized as:

1. Asymmetric: Asymmetric breasts are when one is larger than the other. This can be either minor or pronounced. Sometimes women will opt to even the two out by augmenting or reducing one breast.
2. Bell shape: Breasts are said to be bell shaped when they are very narrow at the top and very full at the bottom. Often bell-shaped breasts are heavy, leading women to desire a reduction.
3. Tear Drop: Tear drops are almost exactly like bell shaped, but the difference between the top and bottom is far more gradual.
4. Slender: Slender breasts tend to be wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, and they do not have much breast tissue. Women often desire a breast augmentation with a lift when theirs are slender.
5. Side Set: Side set breasts have a large space in between them.
6. East West: East West breasts also sit on the side, but the nipples point in opposite directions with a gradual slope.
7. Round: Round breasts are equally full on the top and bottom, and are the most common shape sought after surgically, although they are somewhat rare naturally.

There are other ways

Keep in mind, many of the same effects of a boob job can be accomplished with certain types of braziers. Some bras can offer up to three sizes larger breasts, just with tactically placed padding! Depending on which breast shape you are, there is a bra that should fit your needs without having to go under the knife. 

Asymmetric? Try a bra with removable pads, so you can add them to the smaller side to even them out. Bell shaped? Try a bra with full coverage and secure straps for extra support. East west? Try a push-up or t-shirt bra to bring them closer together. Side set? Go for a balconette. Slender? Try a plunge style to pull them together. Tear drop? Those will also be flattered by a plunge style. Round? Try anything you want! Underwire will always help with an extra push-up and structure, if that's what you desire.

You can also wear clothing that is more flattering to your particular breast size, shape, and your general physique. Try a lot of different cuts and styles to see what looks best on your body, and you may find that you don't even want to change your breasts! One trick? Wear horizontal stripes! They will make your chest look larger and your breasts appear wider. Ruffles around the breasts also accentuate them, making them appear larger than they might be naturally.

If you choose a piece of jewelry around your chest, like a necklace or broach, it will bring attention to the area and make them appear more prominent and large.

Shapewear can also be worn to make other parts of your body appear slimmer. By creating an hourglass figure, your breasts will appear larger.

Aside from bras to assist in making your breasts look however you desire, there are some other (slightly stranger) tips and tricks. Did you know that you can actually use makeup to gain the desired effect? You can "contour" your breasts with foundation or powder to create highlights and shadows, offering a fuller effect. This way, you don't have to have surgery or even wear uncomfortable bras to get that perky and full look.

Many people don't realize it, but one of the easiest ways to make your breasts appear bigger is to improve your posture! Standing up straight with your chest out will offer a more slimming figure with larger looking breasts than when you are hunched over.

If you do decide to go through with your boob job, the following are a few things to keep in mind...