If you’re anything like us, you want to know everything so you can make your decision about whether or not you should get breast implants.
At Southlake Plastic Surgery, we know that you’re resourceful and value being in-the-know. We do too, and that’s why we’re known as one of the best breast surgeons in Dallas. If you’re Googling “Should I get breast implants?” then we recommend taking the time to read this blog. From an accredited, board-certified and award-winning plastic surgery center, here’s everything you need to know about breast augmentation.
Related: What to Look for in the Best Plastic Surgeon in Dallas
Who is a candidate for breast augmentation?
To put it plainly, if you are at least 18 years old and healthy, you are likely a candidate for breast augmentation surgery. Breast augmentation can:
- Enlarge naturally small breasts
- Correct disproportionate size of breasts compared to body
- Augment partial or total breast loss
- Correct asymmetrical breasts
Who is not a candidate for breast implants?
Not everyone over the age of 18 is a candidate for breast implants, though. You are likely not a candidate for breast implants if you:
- Have breast cancer
- Are ill or have an infection
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Don’t have time for a recovery period
What is the right age to get breast implants?
Outside of the minimum ages for breast implants (Silicone implants are FDA-approved for ages 18+, Saline implants are FDA-approved for ages 21+), there is no right or wrong age to get breast implants.
Some women opt for breast implants as soon as they turn 18, while other women decide to get breast implants later in life, like after having children. Having children and significant weight loss can cause volume loss in breasts.
The patients who lost a significant amount of weight sometimes need breast implants and a breast lift to restore volume and remove excess skin. A breast augmentation and lift can be performed together or by themselves. It all depends on the patient’s goals!
There is not a maximum age limit on breast implants; however, with age comes more health issues and more potential for surgical complications. If you’re unsure whether or not you’re a candidate for breast implants, schedule a consultation! We will give you honest, expert advice.
How do breast implants work?
A board-certified plastic surgeon places an FDA-approved implant–made of silicone or saline–under the pectoralis muscle or under breast tissue. This surgery is tailored to each individual patient’s goals.
Anatomy and size of implants are two of many factors that signify where and how the implants will be placed. There are four major incision methods the surgeon can choose from. Similar to implant types and size, methods for placing implants will vary for each patient.
Southlake Plastic Surgery’s very own board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark E. Mason discusses breast augmentation candidacy, implant types and how long they last, and recovery time in this video:
Saline implants
Saline implants are composed of a small sack designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. After your surgeon inserts the sack in your breast tissue through an incision, they will then manually fill it with sterile saline solution to create the desired volume.
Silicone implants
Silicone implants are prefilled with silicone, a thick gel which mimics the natural feel of breast tissue. The incision for silicone implants is typically bigger because the silicone is prefilled, unlike the saline.
Are results immediate?
Yes! You will see results immediately. However, the implants will continue to settle into place over the course of 4-6 weeks. They will take full form by the 6 months.
What is recovery like?
A few hours post-operation, you will be able to go home under the care of a family member or friend. Many patients feel fatigued, sore, swelling, and pain in the breasts during the first few days following the surgery. Over-the-counter pain medication takes care of this for most patients!
Take it easy for the first week, then you can start to resume daily activities. The symptoms should be subsiding by the end of the first week. Walking is encouraged but refrain from cardio exercise for at least 4 weeks and refrain from weight lifting for 6 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
How long does the surgery last?
Breast augmentation surgery lasts about 1 to 2 hours.
Am I going to be put under?
Yes, general anesthesia is used for breast augmentation surgery.
How long do breast implants last?
When thinking, “Should I get breast implants?” it’s important to consider how long they last. Most breast implant manufacturers warranty their implants for 10 years, but there have been many implants that last up to 20 years without any problems! However, for most patients there comes a time when you’ll want to replace them.
Dr. Mason has extensive experience with implant replacement surgeries, and can answer any questions you may have about that process.
What if my implant ruptures?
It is rare for an implant to rupture, but not impossible. If a saline implant ruptures, it is easily absorbed by your body and causes no harm. However, a silicone implant rupture poses an issue.
If your saline implant ruptures, you will most likely notice a change in size and shape to your breast. If this happens, call us so we can get your replacement appointment scheduled. In some cases, it can be hard to detect a silicone rupture.
A common result of silicone rupture is capsular contracture where, upon healing, the scar tissue hardens around the implant. Most implant manufacturers’ warranties cover this condition during the first year.
Implant ruptures are very rare, and should not deter you from getting breast augmentation surgery! However, we always strive to provide all information to our patients so you can make an informed decision about your surgery.
So, are breast implants right for you? Take the next step
Now that you have all the knowledge, you’re ready to stop googling “Should I get breast implants?”: If you think breast implants are a good choice for you, it’s time to get started!
Schedule a consultation
We’d love to meet you and learn about your breast augmentation goals. Schedule a consultation with us! We use this time to truly understand your breast augmentation goals, and go into depth about what the procedure will look like.
If you’re still working out your breast implant goals, try our Virtual Consultation Tool. You’ll receive expert treatment recommendations straight to your inbox without having to leave the house!
At Southlake Plastic Surgery, we take your breast augmentation questions seriously. We appreciate that the question, “Should I get breast implants?” is a serious one. Contact us today to learn more about your options. We can’t wait to work with you!