Breast Augmentation: 5 Debunked Myths and Misconceptions

Breast augmentation has long been a popular cosmetic choice for enhancing the size and shape of the breasts, but despite decades of safe surgeries, there are persistent misconceptions about the procedure. Are you planning on having breast augmentation? Philadelphia-based board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Scott Chapin and his team hope to explain the procedure in more detail and address some rumors and concerns.

Misconception #1: All Breast Augmentation Causes Illness

Some anecdotal claims from women who have had the surgery, media reports, and conflicting information have resulted in public uncertainty about the safety of breast implants. However, much of this speculation is not based in fact. Scientists have determined after extensive research over many years that breast implants do not put patients at risk of developing breast cancer or similar diseases. The FDA has determined a possible link between specific textured implants and an immune system cancer known as BIA-ALCL, but the risk is very low.

Misconception #2: Breast Augmentation is Only for Younger Women

Americans are living longer than ever before, according to statistics. An increasing number of women in their 40s and older who have already had children are choosing to get implants.

Middle aged women, as well as elderly women in their 70s and older, are using plastic surgery to enhance their quality of life by helping to make their outer appearance match their inner vitality.

Women who are over the age of 18 can have breast implants, provided that they are in good overall physical health and have realistic expectations for surgery. The results can be just as attractive at any age.

Misconception #3: Implants Only Last for 10 Years

Implants are not lifetime devices, but the idea that they all automatically expire after 10 years is a broad generalization not based on fact. There is no rule that requires implants to be replaced after a decade. While it is true that the risk of complications increases as years pass, experts caution that it is only when complications such as ruptures, leaks, or capsular contracture occur that implants should be replaced. Some important red flags to watch out for include tightness, pain, tenderness, changes to breast size or shape, swelling, and numbness.

Misconception #4: You Can’t Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation

It is sometimes believed that the changes made to the breasts, or the materials contained in them, make it unsafe—or impossible—to breastfeed after breast augmentation, especially when silicone is used. In fact, the parts of the breasts that are involved in milk production are usually unaffected by the surgery. While aesthetic changes to the shape or position of breasts are not necessarily directly linked to breastfeeding, it is important to note that results can depend on the surgical techniques used, as some incision and implant placements do impact breast ducts and areolae.

Research shows that women with silicone implants can still nurse their babies. The CDC cites the American Academy of Pediatrics in noting that there is not enough evidence of a problem to discourage women with silicone implants from breastfeeding—and in fact, some research indicates that cow milk and formula contain higher levels of silicone.

Misconception #5: Breast Augmentation is a One-Off Procedure

It’s safe to assume when you have breast augmentation that additional surgeries may be needed in the future. As we get older, skin becomes stretched and fat slumps downward, so many patients opt for a breast lift to restore a perky, youthful appearance. In other cases, depending on their cosmetic goals, patients may want to “fine tune” their breasts to further enhance symmetry. When patients have breast augmentation, they should go in with the understanding that complications, while unlikely, could occur and may need to be corrected with additional procedures.

Are you ready to get started with breast augmentation? The team at Philadelphia’s Chapin Aesthetics can help guide you through each step of the journey. Don’t hesitate to call the practice directly at (267) 880-0810 or request an appointment.