Busting Myths Around Breast Augmentations
Like any topic, you can find a slew of information and misinformation about breast augmentations on the internet. If you’ve been researching or pondering this procedure, you’ve likely found yourself trying to sort through that mix. Although we can’t cover everything here – and we encourage you to talk in person with a board-certified plastic surgeon about your questions and concerns – let’s put to rest a few common myths about the procedure.
Myth #1: A Breast Augmentation Will Make Your Breasts Perkier
Breast augmentation increases the size of your breasts but does not change their shape and placement. If you want perkier breasts, you’ll need a breast lift. It’s up to you (and your surgeon) whether to opt for the additional augmentation. Often, these procedures are done simultaneously because each provides unique results to achieve your desired outcome.
An experienced, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Lucas can develop a surgical plan to achieve beautiful, proportional results with natural-looking size, lift, and shape.
Myth #2: A Breast Augmentation Will Prevent You from Breastfeeding
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, most women who have had a breast augmentation are able to breastfeed. Implants typically don’t affect breast milk production because they’re placed beneath the breast tissue and ductal system. While some surgeries, such as breast reductions, might interfere with lactation, breast augmentation or lifts generally do not.
In general, the CDC reports that “Most mothers who have had breast or nipple surgery can produce some milk, but they may not produce a full milk supply. Women without a full milk supply can still breastfeed.” In some cases, these breastfeeding moms may need to supplement their supply.
Myth #3: Breast Implants Need Frequent Replacement
Breast implants, whether saline or silicone, are highly durable and designed to last for many years. Both types of implants are made with the same sturdy outer shell, and while no implant lasts forever, they often last 10+ years when inserted by a skilled surgeon like Dr. Lucas. Manufacturers typically provide a warranty for implant failures within the first 10 years, but many implants last much longer. However, it’s important to understand that all implants will eventually need to be replaced due to natural wear and tear over time.
Dr. Lucas almost exclusively uses silicone gel implants over saline because they offer a much more natural look and feel with significantly less rippling. Patients who have switched from saline to silicone often describe the difference as two different worlds in terms of comfort, appearance, and overall satisfaction.
Did you know? Saline implants may fail at the port site, leading to deflation, while silicone implants might develop shell defects that can result in gel leakage. The FDA recommends regular imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, to detect ruptures before the gel migrates outside the scar tissue pocket, allowing for timely surgical revisions.
Choose East Tennessee’s Best
Deciding on a breast augmentation or any plastic surgery is a big step, and you’re right to do your homework beforehand. When you’re ready to learn even more, be sure to consult a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Lucas to determine the best plan based on your health, goals, and lifestyle. As East Tennessee’s premier plastic surgeon, he can deliver the long-lasting, natural-looking results you dream of!Give The Lucas Center a call at (865) 218-6210 or schedule your consultation today.