breast augmentation myths Atlanta

The internet has become an outstanding resource for people curious about cosmetic surgery. By providing instant access to information about specific procedures, reviews of local surgeons, and first-hand accounts from patients who have undergone every type of surgery in the book, it has never been easier to conduct research at home to help determine if cosmetic surgery may be right for you. However, not all of the info you find online is accurate and trustworthy. There is plenty of misinformation to be found online, even on the most common cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation. So to help set the record straight, I have dug into a few of the most common breast augmentation myths to help determine what is true and what is false, based on my 35+ years of performing breast augmentation procedures.

Myth #1: Your Breast Implants Will Last a Lifetime

False. Breast implants are intended to be long-lasting following your breast augmentation, but that doesn’t mean forever. Today’s breast implants have come a long way from the implants of the past thanks to innovations like stronger shells and more stable fillers. Patients can typically expect their implants to last up to a decade or two (or even longer), although the chances of experiencing complications like a rupture increase with every passing year. Women who undergo breast augmentation should be keep up with their annual checkups and perform regular self-exams to make sure their implants are still intact.

Myth #2: You Will Still be Able to Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation

True. Patients will still be able to safely breastfeed following their surgery. Although issues with breastfeeding are a potential complication of breast augmentation, this is very rare. There are also steps I am able to take during the procedure including altering the placement of the implant to help minimize this risk.

Myth #3: Breast Augmentation May Increase Your Risk of Developing Breast Cancer

False. There is no scientific evidence that receiving breast implants will increase a woman’s chances of developing breast cancer. However, it’s just as important to remember that breast augmentation will not decrease your breast cancer risk either. Meaning, it is still essential to undergo annual breast cancer screening appointments and perform regular breast self-exams after your procedure.

Myth #4: You Can Pick Your Exact New Cup Size Prior to Your Surgery

False. Although women will have the freedom to choose from a wide range of implant types, shapes, and sizes during their pre-surgery consultation phase, the exact cup size following breast augmentation is not entirely predictable. This is primarily due to the enormous variation in what each cup size refers to depending on the bra manufacturer. In order to achieve the best, most natural-looking results from your breast procedure, the implant you select should match your current breast width, diameter, and position of your chest wall.

Differentiating fact from fiction can be challenging. This is why I am always happy to answer questions I receive from patients about breast augmentation and the other cosmetic surgery procedures I perform. For patients who prefer a more hands-on experience, I recommend scheduling a plastic surgery consultation to discuss whether surgery is the right path to help you achieve the aesthetic changes you desire. Contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott, to schedule your consultation today and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for more information, photos, and more.