Cosmetic surgery to change the size and shape of your breasts is more common than you think. It is a popular procedure that has helped many women gain self-confidence and comfort. However, some myths still exist about this type of plastic surgery. Are you unsatisfied with the look of your breasts but have shied away from surgery? Then read this list of the most common breast surgery myths. We hope that learning more about this procedure will make it easier for you to decide if a breast augmentation is a good option for you.
The Most Common Breast Surgery Myths
Myth 1: Breast surgery increases the risk of breast cancer.
Numerous studies have shown that both saline and silicone implants are safe. However, the factors that contribute to breast cancer risk are varied. After breast surgery, you should continue to do regular self-examinations and have regular mammograms. Ask for a technician who is familiar with techniques used for women with implants.
Myth 2: I won’t be able to breastfeed my future children if I have breast surgery.
This depends on where your implants are placed. Be sure to discuss your options during your consultation with a plastic surgeon. It is possible to place implants without removing the mammary glands, so that you can happily breastfeed your baby in the future.
Myth 3: Breast surgery is only performed for cosmetic reasons.
Aside from breast surgery after a mastectomy, there are other therapeutic benefits to the procedure. Some women suffer severe discomfort because their breasts are overly large, while some experience a lack of self-confidence due to unusually small or uneven breasts. Regardless of the reason for surgery, our psychological wellbeing is often linked to our satisfaction with our bodies.
Myth 4: Breast surgery is only for women who want larger breasts.
Women with particularly large breasts can experience severe back problems due to the weight of their breast tissue. For these women, breast reduction can provide relief and reduce the risk of severe back problems in the future. Breast surgery can also address uneven breasts without changing the size.
Myth 5. I’ll have to have my implants replaced every few years.
Unless a problem develops, implants do not need to be replaced on a regular basis. Newer implants are much more durable and can easily last 10 to 15 years or more. As long as you remain happy and comfortable with your implants, they won’t need to be replaced for many years to come.
Myth 6. It takes weeks to recover after breast surgery.
Newer procedures for breast surgery have greatly reduced the recovery period. We perform breast procedures under local anesthesia and IV sedation. This avoids the risks associated with general anesthesia, and it shortens your recovery time to as little as 3-5 days post-op.
Myth 7. Breast surgery is only for women.
Though it’s not often discussed, even men can benefit from breast surgery. This is usually due to a condition called gynecomastia, in which hormone imbalances cause the glands in male breasts to grow. With breast surgery to alleviate the problem, a man with gynecomastia can feel comfortable about his body again.
We hope that discussing these common breast surgery myths helps you determine what is best for you. Should you have any questions about breast augmentations or implants, we encourage you to schedule a personal consultation.
John Rosdeutscher, MD
Double board-certified plastic surgeon “Dr. R” has been voted Best of Music City #1 plastic surgeon 3+ years.
Mark Peters, MD
Board-certified Memphis plastic surgeon Dr. Peters has earned recognition for his work in skin tightening and cellulite reduction.
