8 Myths About Breast Augmentation
Over 300,000 patients1 undergo breast augmentation surgery every year, frequently with the goal of creating a fuller, more shapely, and/or more proportionate bust. More options exist to augment the breasts than ever before, from high-quality breast implants to fat transfer breast augmentation. In the hands of an experienced provider with a well-honed artistic eye, breast augmentation can allow patients to obtain the physique they desire, and many are thrilled with the results.
Despite its popularity, a variety of misconceptions about breast augmentation exist. Below, Dr. Joseph DiBello debunks eight of the most common myths about the procedure.
- Breast augmentation creates prominent scarring. While scarring is possible with any major cosmetic surgery, breast augmentation is not known to produce dramatic scars. Moreover, Dr. DiBello takes care to place all incisions in discreet locations, and any scarring that does appear is most often virtually unnoticeable.
- Implants can combat ptosis. Implants can add volume to the bustline, but they cannot lift drooping tissue (medically known as “ptosis”). Patients with significant sagging may benefit more from a breast lift to achieve the desired contour. When these two procedures are combined, the surgery is known as breast augmentation-mastopexy (BAM) or a breast lift with implants.
- It’s impossible to breastfeed after breast augmentation. Although some believe breast augmentation ruins the ability to breastfeed, this is not the case.2 In reality, the placement of implants usually does not interfere with milk ducts – especially when the implants are placed using the submuscular method, which Dr. DiBello typically prefers.
- Implants need to be replaced frequently. Some say that implants need to be routinely replaced, which would understandably deter patients from pursuing the surgery. While patients should plan to replace their implants eventually, modern implants generally last for many years unless complications (such as rupture or capsular contracture) occur.
- Recovery from breast augmentation takes an extremely long time. While getting a proper recovery is important for overall wellness (as well as to maintain the effects of your surgery), the process is not as lengthy as some may believe. Specifically, patients can usually return to work within 7-10 days (though more strenuous activity should be avoided for about six weeks).
- Only women with small breasts can get augmentation. Contrary to this belief, the surgery can also correct asymmetry, post-pregnancy/weight changes, and more. Your precise reasons for pursuing breast augmentation will depend on your unique case.
- Breast augmentation results look fake. It is possible for breast augmentation effects to be less than satisfactory. With this in mind, a qualified provider should be able to create a balanced, harmonious, and natural appearance with breast augmentation.
- Breast augmentation can only be achieved with implants. As an alternative to silicone or saline implants, patients can opt to undergo augmentation with fat transfer. This technique involves the removal of fat from another area of the body via liposuction; the purified fat is then used to add volume to the bustline.
Our board-certified plastic surgeon is highly proficient in breast augmentation and is familiar with many surgical methods to bring patients exceptional results. To find out whether you may qualify for the procedure, feel free to schedule your consultation with Dr. DiBello.
Medical Resources
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)1
Johns Hopkins Medicine2
Editor’s note: This blog was originally posted on November 20th, 2023.
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