Myths and Facts About Breast Augmentation
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States. There are many myths and misconceptions about the procedure, and this article is designed to dispel some of those myths.
At Rick J. Smith, MD, our plastic surgeon Dr. Rick Smith and our team offer a range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments at our office in East Lansing, Michigan.
Separating the myths and facts about cosmetic surgery
Enhancing cup size is just one aspect of breast augmentation surgery. Like any plastic surgery or cosmetic procedure, women choose to undergo breast augmentation for several personal and health-related reasons.
Here’s an overview of some of the most common myths and facts regarding breast augmentation surgery to help you make an informed decision.
Myths about breast augmentation surgery
Chances are you might have heard at least one or more of the following myths about breast augmentation surgery:
Breast implants and augmentation procedures are dangerous
The most important decision you make after deciding to get breast augmentation surgery is your choice of plastic surgeon. Cosmetic procedures should be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience, whether it’s implants to increase cup size, a breast lift, or a breast reduction.
There are also misconceptions between breast implants correlating with serious health issues, like autoimmune diseases and breast cancer. But the fact is, modern breast implants are FDA approved and safe.
Dr. Smith will review your medical history and discuss any questions or concerns you may have ahead of time.
Breast implants interfere with breastfeeding
Many women choose breast augmentation as part of a “mommy makeover” due to changes in breast size, shape, and appearance after pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, you don’t have to put off breast augmentation until after you’re done having children.
Women can still breastfeed after undergoing breast augmentation. Dr. Smith typically uses an incision under the breast and uses subpectoral implants, which minimize the risk of affecting nipple sensation and breastfeeding.
There’s an age limit for breast augmentation surgery
While many women tend to get breast augmentation in their 20s and 30s, there is no age limit or restrictions as far as getting breast augmentation later in life.
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure, and every surgery has potential risk factors. The most common risk factors include:
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Infection
- Scarring
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Implant leakage/rupture
- Pain
- Dissatisfaction with results
Dr. Smith will design a customized pre- and post-op recovery plan for your breast augmentation to help make your experience as successful as possible.
Facts about breast augmentation surgery
As the most common cosmetic procedure, breast augmentation is safer than it has ever been.
Here are some of the considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether breast augmentation is right for you:
- There will be subtle scarring from the incisions
- Your breasts will change size/shape as you age, gain/lose weight, and from pregnancy, even after you get augmentation surgery
- Implants may need to be removed or replaced after a certain period of time
- You may have to settle for a smaller cup size than you’d like depending on your body type
- You’ll have to avoid exercise/strenuous activity for about a month as you recover
With any cosmetic or plastic surgery procedure, it’s important to have realistic expectations and to weigh the pros and cons before you commit.
For more information about breast augmentation surgery and whether it’s right for you, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith, or you can also request an appointment online.