If you’re one of the millions of women who is either considering or has already undergone breast augmentation surgery, you may be hearing stories about complications, revisions, and recommendations after surgery. Although every patient’s experience will be different, there are certain concepts circulating among the lay population that are not based on scientific data. Here are a few common myths and misconceptions that should help set the record straight, and also put your mind at ease.
- “Breast implants should be replaced every 10 years” FALSE. Breast implants, whether saline or silicone, may or may not need to be replaced, but this depends on whether they have leaked or ruptured, become painful or distorted, or if capsular contracture has developed. If your implants look and feel fine, and you are happy with them, there is no set time for mandatory scheduling of breast implant replacement or removal surgery.
- “If I have a mammogram my implants will rupture.” FALSE. Although breast implants are not guaranteed to last forever and never to leak or rupture, undergoing routine mammography is not normally associated with causing implant failure. The silicone shell of the implants is extremely strong and can withstand large forces and pressure. In addition, special views are done in order for mammograms to show as much breast tissue as possible behind and around the implants.
- “Silicone gel implants are better than saline implants”, or “Smooth implants are better than textured implants”, or “Round implants are better than anatomic implants.” IT DEPENDS. Although there is no overall “best” implant, there are hundreds of choices of implants based on size, shape, and fill. To decide which one may be best for you, your best approach is to have a comprehensive consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation, and can discuss all the options with you.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a female board certified plastic surgeon in New York City with advanced specialized training in aesthetic plastic surgery. Her practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is dedicated to aesthetic plastic surgery of the face, breast, and body. Her office off Park Avenue in NYC boasts a fully certified AAAASF Operating Room for the safety, comfort, and privacy of her patients. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hutchinson, please contact us or call us at (212) 452-1400.
