Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the world. But, unfortunately, its popularity doesn’t mean the procedure is well-understood. There are tons of misconceptions and flat-out myths about breast implants out there.
If you’re interested in breast augmentation, you should turn to the experts to learn the truth about breast implants. First, book a consultation with a surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation surgery.
During that consultation, they will review all the steps of the surgery with you. The surgeon will talk to you about the qualifications that patients should have, discuss the preparations you should take before the operation, and go over what breast augmentation recovery will look like and what you can do to make it easier.
The surgeon will give you all of these essential details and answer all of your questions. In the end, they want you to make an informed decision about the operation, and not on popular misconceptions.
What Are 3 Misconceptions about Breast Implants?
1. All Implants Look Fake
Some women are wary of getting breast augmentation because they think the results will look fake. This is a misconception. Breast implants can look completely natural. If you want to have natural-looking results, there are several things that you can do:
- First, choose implant volumes/sizes that match your physical frame.
- Choose a teardrop shape instead of a round implant.
- Choose to place the implants underneath the pectoral muscle instead of over it.
- Choose silicone implants over saline implants. The synthetic material can feel closer to natural breast tissue. (1)
2. Implants Make Your Breasts Perky
There is a misconception that breast implants make your breasts look hard and perky. This may seem true when you see a patient who recently experienced breast augmentation. The main reason behind this is implants appear firmer and higher after surgery. However, implants will eventually soften and settle slightly lower (the drop and fluff period). (2)
Breast augmentation surgery should never be looked at as a solution for sagging. If you want to bring your breasts higher, you should inquire about a breast lift — this procedure is commonly done in conjunction with breast augmentation surgery. A breast lift removes excess skin and fatty tissue from the breasts and moves them into the desired position. (3)
Also Read – Does the Popular Bra-Line Back Lift Surgery Work?
3. You Will Lose Nipple Sensation
Loss of nipple sensation can be a complication of breast augmentation, but it is usually temporary. In the weeks after surgery, the nipple sensation should slowly return to normal, and it is rare for patients to lose the sensation permanently.
If you are nervous about this complication, you can take several steps to avoid it:
- Choose an implant size/volume that works with your frame. An implant that’s too large can increase the risk of losing nipple sensation.
- Have your implants inserted through an incision along the armpit or under the breast crease instead of around the areola?
- Have your implants placed below the pectoral muscle instead of above the pectoral muscle?
- Choose a plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation surgery with strong credentials. Going to the right surgeon will help you decrease your chances of experiencing complications post-surgery, especially those that remain long past the recovery stage.
4. You Cannot Breastfeed with Implants
When you’re a new mom, the fear of not being able to breastfeed your children shouldn’t stop you from attaining reformed breasts. It is necessary to discuss your expectations with the surgeon and let them know that you want to breastfeed following the surgery. Certain augmentations can make breastfeeding more manageable, so your surgeon can provide solutions and recommend implants according to your desires. (4)
Breastfeeding is an essential component of a mother’s life, and luckily, implants don’t get in the way of it. You may need some time to recover before starting breastfeeding, as your body may be sore. Plan your treatment accordingly and proceed as you and your surgeon deem appropriate.
5. It is a Solution for Sagging Breasts
Although it would be ideal if breast implants improved the sagginess of the breasts, unfortunately, that is a myth. Many factors contribute to the sagginess of breasts, such as extreme weight loss, aging, and pregnancy.
If you’re concerned about droopy breasts, a breast lift procedure might help your breasts look more perky and youthful as it will reposition the breasts. However, it is unrealistic to expect a complete transformation of the sagginess of your breasts through implants.
6. Implants Are Only for Younger Women
Don’t let age stop you from getting the breasts of your dreams. The age barrier is a popular misconception that may prevent many older women from looking into the procedure. Although the treatment is popular among women in their 20s and 30s, that is not a firm limit for treatment.
Many women may wish to get implants in their 40s after having children. Breast implants can boost your confidence and allow you to improve the appearance of your breasts, which may have changed due to age and pregnancy. As long as you are in good health, breast implants won’t be a problem. You can discuss your concerns with your surgeon, who will guide you through the procedure and inform you of any potential complications. Just be sure to set realistic expectations of results.
7. You Need Frequent Implant Replacement
Some breast implant manufacturers may recommend replacing implants every ten to 20 years. However, your plastic surgeon can provide you with a more accurate timeframe. Many surgeons believe waiting until the implant is ruptured before replacing it is okay. It is crucial to look for signs indicating your implants need replacement. (5)
You may not need frequent replacement if your implants are in good condition. However, if you choose to increase or decrease the size of the implants in the future, you will need to replace the implants. You can occasionally schedule appointments with your doctor to ease your mind and stay updated with your implant requirements.
8. Recovery Will Be Long & Uncomfortable
Although the recovery time from breast implants can vary from person to person, it is generally not a long and painful procedure. Like other surgical procedures, the incisions around the muscles will likely be sore. However, the pain and discomfort will reduce within one to two weeks of the procedure. Your doctor will prescribe medication to ease the pain and smooth recovery. (6)
If you feel extreme discomfort at any point, visit your doctor or an emergency hospital to ensure that nothing’s wrong. However, it is unlikely that you will have to take this step.
9. The Results Will Be Instantly Visible
In many cases, the results of your breast augmentation are visible 8-12 weeks after surgery. During the surgery, the muscles tighten, and the chest tissue may appear swollen. The swelling decreases within a few weeks, and your accurate results become visible as the implants settle into their natural position.
Since it takes a while for results to appear, you should plan your procedure accordingly. For example, you may want to avoid setting your appointment before a significant event, such as a wedding or any other special occasion.
10. You Will Have Unpleasant Scars
When you visit a skilled plastic surgeon with extensive training, they strategically hide scars and ensure they aren’t unsightly. Often, surgeons place the incisions in the underarm area, allowing the breasts to be scarf-free. In addition, the doctor may also provide topical treatments to reduce scarring. If scars are a significant concern that bothers you, discuss it with your doctor, and they will plan the surgery accordingly.
Don’t let misconceptions about breast implants steer you away from surgery. Learn the facts! You’re one consultation away from youthful breasts and a confidence boost.
References:
- “Saline vs. Silicone Implants for Breast Augmentation” – healthline.com
- “How the “Drop and Fluff” Period Affects the Results of Your Breast Augmentation” – realself.com
- “Mastopexy (Breast Lift Surgery)” – webmd.com
- “Think You Can’t Breastfeed After Implants? Think Again” -hopkinsmedicine.org
- “Signs that replacement or removal is necessary” – healthline.com
- “Breast augmentation recovery time” – healthline.com
