Breast augmentation was the leading cosmetic surgery in 2015, as it has been for many years in the past and, we suspect, in the future. The primary idea of breast augmentation is to gain or reinstate adequate volume and shape. However, many of the women who achieve their desired physical outcome from breast augmentation also experience emotional and psychological benefits, such as better attunement with their body and higher self-confidence.
Because breast augmentation is so popular, we do receive common questions about the procedure; or, rather, the appropriateness of breast enlargement for various age groups. Essentially, women want to know if they are the right age for this procedure.
Ultimately, the most prevalent factor is that a patient is at least 18 years of age. But there is a caveat to this. A woman between the ages of 18 and 22 may obtain augmentation with saline breast implants. If the preference is to have silicone implants, one will want to wait the few extra years (or for FDA approval to change).
Perhaps more than the question of age is the consideration of readiness. Factors that are important to assess include:
- Physical development. The speed or rate at which breasts develop is different for every woman. One cannot say without a doubt that this process is completed by the age of 18. If development is still in progress, breast augmentation may need to be postponed for a short time.
- The matter of breastfeeding is not the issue here. In most cases, the ability to breastfeed is not diminished by the presence of implants. The factor that women want to evaluate is how breast tissue will naturally change during pregnancy. To avoid the potential need for future surgery, a woman may wish to wait until her childbearing days are behind her.
- Emotional maturity. This is perhaps the most widely discussed factor related to a woman’s readiness for cosmetic surgery. It is important to know what to expect from breast augmentation, and what the ultimate result will be. Research suggests that the value of the physical improvement is maximized by a healthy sense of self before surgery.
Have you been thinking about breast augmentation? Get the facts! Call (760) 240-2444.