Even though breast augmentation is consistently one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures performed in the U.S., many of the women who consult with me need to be reassured about certain concerns. When breast augmentation patients at my Ft. Worth, TX, get this information, they’re much more confident about their decisions to get breast implants.
What Worries Do Women Have About Breast Augmentation?
It’s natural to have some “butterflies” after choosing to undergo any cosmetic surgery, including breast augmentation. The choices involved with breast enhancement, such as deciding on the size and type of implants, are both exciting and a little stressful.
Additionally, some patients have specific concerns or fears that may be rooted in the information they’ve discovered online or from talking to friends or family about the procedure.
Here are a handful of the most common fears we hear from patients:
Will my breasts look fake?
Patients who browse online looking for “wish” pictures—examples showing what they want their results to look like—often come across photos of women whose breasts are obviously not in proportion to their bodies. If a patient describes their breast enhancement goals as wanting larger breasts that look natural, that means she wants breasts that are proportional to her body’s frame. One of the best ways to see if a plastic surgeon creates natural-looking results is to browse before-and-after photos of actual patients.
Will I have to replace my implants every 10 years?
This so-called rule of thumb is really more of a ballpark estimate that many women considering breast augmentation think is an absolute deadline. It’s true that breast implants aren’t designed to last forever, so patients should understand that they will need to be replaced or removed at some point. But the fact is that if you’re happy with the appearance of your breasts and there are no complications, then your implants may last 15 or 20 years in some cases.
Is the recovery going to be long and painful?
It’s natural to have some apprehension about discomfort following elective surgery, in addition to worrying about how long you’ll have to take off work or from your normal activities. I’ve adopted surgical techniques used by some of the world’s most respected surgeons that greatly reduce recovery time and minimize discomfort. Sometimes called 24-hour or rapid recovery breast augmentation, the procedure involves taking specific, proven steps that significantly reduce the risk of post-op complications and pain.
Do breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer?
Reports associating a rare but highly treatable type of lymphoma called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) generated significant attention a couple of years ago. The disease is not actually breast cancer. Researchers linked the condition to certain textured breast implants. None of the implants we offer today are manufactured using either of the two major processes implicated in the ALCL studies (textured with Biocell salt loss and polyurethane coated). Breast implants also don’t interfere with mammograms, but women should let technicians know they have implants.
Will my breasts have scars?
Any incision will result in a scar, but the key is camouflaging incisions in discreet locations. Virtually all of the breast augmentation procedures I perform involve inframammary incisions—short, horizontal incisions made at the base of the breast where the skin connects to the chest. Not only are they difficult to see, but they typically fade significantly after about a year.
Women considering breast augmentation in Abilene, Arlington, and throughout Texas come to our Ft. Worth practice to get excellent results. Contact us using the online form to request a consultation or call us at (817) 228-4315 to schedule an appointment.
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