Breast plastic surgery is surrounded by many myths and prejudices. We’ve decided to address the most common misconceptions about breast lifts and augmentations. Read on to form a realistic view of this field of healthcare.
Myth 1: Breast Surgery is Only for Aesthetic Purposes
Breast surgeries are not performed solely for aesthetic reasons; they can have significant psychological and physical benefits. For example, breast augmentation can reduce feelings of shame and boost self-confidence. Breast reduction can alleviate back pain caused by excessive breast weight, which often strains the spine and neck.
Excessive breast size can also cause discomfort and affect posture, and breast reduction for such health reasons may be covered by insurance. However, insurance approval depends on the recommendation from a medical professional (e.g., orthopedist, neurologist, or mammologist) and approval from a health insurance examiner. Even if you have clear health issues related to large breasts, approval for coverage is not always guaranteed.
Cosmetic breast augmentation is always self-funded by the applicant.
Myth 2: Breast Implants Are Health-Risky
You’ve probably come across media reports about the dangers of breast implants. However, studies show that certified and tested breast implants are safe, and the risk of complications is minimal.
The quality of implants is monitored by the State Institute for Drug Control, and any suspicion of increased risks leads to the withdrawal of products from the market.
Myth 3: The Results of Breast Surgery Are Permanent and Unchangeable
Unfortunately, breast implants do not last a lifetime, and there are several reasons for their replacement:
- Preventive Measures: Doctors recommend replacing implants every 10 to 15 years.
- Change in Size Preference: Implants may need to be replaced if the size is no longer satisfactory, whether too large or still too small.
- Implant Rupture: Although rare, if an implant bursts, replacement is necessary.
We discuss implant replacement in detail in a separate article, “How Does Breast Reoperation Work?” where our breast surgery specialist shares insights.
Myth 4: I Will Have a Large Scar After Breast Augmentation
Today, breast augmentation can be performed with minimal scarring thanks to specialized techniques. The scar size is reduced to just two to three centimeters, unlike traditional methods, which may leave scars four to six centimeters long.
This mini-invasive technique involves placing the implant into the breast via a sterile bag, avoiding direct tissue contact around the incision. This eliminates the risk of bacterial contamination and minimizes the chance of infection around the implant. This method is typically suitable for smaller implants (150 to 200 milliliters).
However, even after both mini-invasive and traditional breast augmentation, the scar is almost invisible, even with fat transfer augmentation.
Myth 5: Breast Surgery Is Only for the Wealthy
It is no longer true that only the rich and celebrities undergo breast surgery. The prices of most breast surgery procedures are becoming increasingly affordable, and they are comparable to other expenses, such as an extended vacation.
Some clinics even offer payment plans for breast surgery if your current financial situation doesn’t allow for upfront payment. Others offer insurance for the procedure.
Myth 6: After Breast Surgery, I Won’t Be Able to Breastfeed
Many women wonder if they can breastfeed after breast augmentation. There are concerns about the potential risks related to having surgery before pregnancy, including the possibility of disrupting milk glands or altering the shape of the breasts. However, in most cases, breast implants do not interfere with milk glands or ducts.
For women planning to have children, the implants are typically placed partially or completely beneath the breast muscle and milk tissue, with the incision made under the breast fold. This technique ensures the milk glands and ducts remain undisturbed. That said, there is a small risk of permanent pressure on the milk glands, but it is unlikely to affect breastfeeding.
Breast surgery can be done before or after pregnancy. If the procedure is done before pregnancy, a breast lift may be necessary after breastfeeding to restore firmness and shape. A post-pregnancy breast lift can help with this.
Tip: Are you afraid of breast plastic surgery? You don’t have to. We will advise you how to work with it.
Myth 7: Enlarged Breasts Look Fake
Plastic surgery clinics aim to meet the individual desires of their patients. If a more natural look is preferred, the surgeon will work to achieve that result. Before every procedure, there is a personal consultation with the plastic surgeon, who will suggest the right implant shape, size, and type of augmentation, including incision lines.
Myth 8: Breast Surgery Is Painful
Every woman has a different pain threshold, but breast surgery itself is not typically painful. The procedure lasts around 60 to 90 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia.
After the surgery, you may experience some swelling and tenderness in the breasts. However, if you follow the recommended post-operative guidelines and refrain from putting stress on the chest muscles, you should be able to return to normal physical activity within a month, depending on your doctor’s advice and post-op checks.
Myth 9: After Breast Augmentation, I Can’t Strengthen My Chest Muscles
If you are an active person, you may be concerned about whether you can strengthen your chest muscles after breast augmentation. It is essential to follow a period of rest after surgery, but you can begin strengthening your upper body muscles about three months after the procedure.
Breast surgery does not cause a loss of strength in the chest muscles, so you can still participate in any sport, including swimming.
Myth 10: I Can’t Swim or Fly with Breast Implants
You may have heard that breast implants can squeak or even rupture under higher pressure. This is not true. Silicone implants do not squeak during airport security checks or flights, and they do not cause problems during swimming or diving.
Implants would only rupture if subjected to an extreme force, such as a severe impact in a car accident.
Have These Myths Changed Your Mind?
If these myth-busting facts have convinced you to take the step towards transforming your breasts, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced plastic surgeons and schedule a consultation. We’ll gladly answer any further questions you may have about breast surgery.