Breast augmentation (augmentation mammaplasty) is the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States, with over 300,000 procedures performed in 2023, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. With such popularity comes widespread media coverage and, unfortunately, many misconceptions.
Here are some common myths about breast implants and the facts that dispel them.
Myth 1: All implants need to be replaced after 10 years
There is no absolute requirement to remove or replace breast implants at the 10-year mark. While the risk of complications may increase with the implant’s age, removal or replacement should only be considered when specific issues arise. Ruptured implants can be removed and replaced through a relatively minor procedure.
The most common reasons for replacement include:
Rupture or Leakage
- Saline implants: If they leak, the saline is safely reabsorbed by the body
- Silicone implants: Modern implants use highly cohesive “gummy bear” gel that stays contained within the implant pocket if rupture occurs
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture describes abnormal scar formation around the implant. This progressive condition can affect one or both breasts at any time after surgery. It typically presents with:
- Pain and hardening in the breast
- Possible implant displacement
- Breast distortion
Routine follow-ups are essential in detecting any issues with the implants and determining the appropriate therapeutic intervention, if any.
Myth 2: Implant sizing is unpredictable and “just a guessing game”
Modern technology and surgical expertise have made implant sizing highly precise. Our surgeons consider multiple factors when helping patients choose implants, including:
- Breast width, diameter and position on the chest wall
- Tissue characteristics and stretch
- Effects of gravity and implant weight
- Patient’s body type and desired outcome
Advanced imaging technology, such as the Vectra XT 3D camera, allows patients to see virtual before-and-after results on their own bodies, helping them make informed decisions about implant size and shape. Edina Plastic Surgery is the only clinic in the Twin City area with Vectra XT imaging equipment, which captures comprehensive 3D images of your breasts. The 360-degree photos, which have a sharp definition, can be used to show the possible outcomes of various implant sizes and shapes for breast augmentations. Patients can “test drive” various implants using this virtual technology so they know what to expect before making their final decision.
Myth 3: A hospital stay is required for breast implant surgery
Breast augmentation can typically be performed at an accredited outpatient surgical facility and does not require hospitalization. The procedure takes approximately 90 minutes and requires about two hours of recovery room time. We advise patients that they’ll need someone to drive them after the procedure and assist them at home for the first 24 hours, but a hospital stay is unnecessary.
Myth 4: Breast implants cause autoimmune diseases
Scientific studies involving hundreds of thousands of women have found no proven link between breast implants and systemic or autoimmune diseases or an increased risk of breast cancer or other chronic health conditions. Modern implants available in the US, including silicone gel, saline and structured saline implants, are all FDA-cleared and undergo extensive testing to ensure safety and effectiveness. This is in contrast to earlier generations of implants from the 1960s, which did not undergo the same rigorous testing and data collection processes.
Myth 5: Implants are dangerous for breastfeeding
Since the majority of women who undergo breast augmentation are in their 20s and 30s, concerns about pregnancy and breastfeeding are common among patients. However, extensive research has shown this concern to be unfounded. Multiple studies have demonstrated that there are no medical risks for babies who are born to mothers with breast implants, and breastfeeding with either saline or silicone implants is completely safe.
Furthermore, having breast implants does not create any contraindications for future pregnancies. Women can confidently plan for future pregnancies and breastfeeding after their breast augmentation surgery.
Myth 6: Any surgeon advertising as a “cosmetic surgeon” is well-qualified to perform breast augmentation
It’s crucial for patients to understand that the terms “cosmetic surgeon” and “board-certified plastic surgeon” are not interchangeable. A board-certified plastic surgeon must complete a minimum of six years of surgical training after medical school, including a dedicated plastic surgery residency program, and pass comprehensive written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). In contrast, a physician using the term “cosmetic surgeon” may have completed a nonsurgical residency with only a brief course in cosmetic procedures.
While breast augmentation might appear straightforward, it is a complex surgical procedure requiring extensive knowledge of breast anatomy, implant selection, surgical techniques and potential complications. The best and safest outcomes are achieved by surgeons who have completed accredited plastic surgery training programs and maintain board certification through the ABPS, which ensures ongoing education and adherence to the highest standards of patient safety and surgical care.
