Consider These Tips Before You Snip
July 21, 2008

Now's the time! For years now you've considered going under the knife to enhance your breasts. You tuned into the makeover shows faithfully. Watching Dr. 90210, The Swan, Extreme Makeover, and Nip/Tuck prepared you well. You feel that you understand what happens during the procedure, have a pretty good idea of what you'll feel like immediately afterwards, and are excited to see what your breasts will look like once they've healed

Whether you're considering getting breast implants or getting a lift. There are some things that you'll probably never see discussed on the shows. If you're determined to go under the knife for breast rejuvenation surgery, do your own research before visiting a cosmetic surgeon. While many of them may give you unbiased information, you still may not have all the facts. And, unfortunately you won't know how your body responds to breast implants, or a breast lift, until after you've had the procedure.

Breast implants don't last forever: they have a shelf life. "It could be six months, 10 years, or 20 years," says David Rapaport, MD, a New York City plastic surgeon (Elle magazine, July 2008). If you've had implants once, either silicone or saline, you'll have to have them replaced not just once, but probably several times over your lifespan. Also, the procedure for a breast lift will likely have to be repeated more than once to maintain the appearance of youthful breasts.

The following issues with breast rejuvenation surgeries are a reality:

  1. Both silicone and saline breast implants can rupture.
  2. Scar tissue, technically called capsular contracture, tightens around the implant, which can make your implants feel like baseballs over time.
  3. We generally lose the elasticity and thickness of our skin as we age, making the need for future implants and lifts more likely.
  4. Changes in body weight can also trigger the need for surgical corrections.

Prior to making a decision about breast rejuvenation, understand the facts. If your doctor doesn't voluntarily discuss these issues with you, then find another cosmetic surgeon who will.

Cosmetic Surgery Fact
According to www.CosmeticSurgery.com, the "average person today getting cosmetic surgery is not a bored, rich lady but a working mom who just wants a single procedure to improve her appearance somewhat".