Dr Sameer Karkhanis clarifies some myths and misconceptions about breast implants
Many women go for breast implant surgery for getting a fuller figure. Breast augmentation is a safe and popular procedure for having the desired body shape, but there are many myths and misconception related to this surgery.
Myth The patient can decide the bra cup.
Creating the most natural-looking breast and making the patient satisfied and completing their wish of fuller breasts is the main goal of breast augmentation surgery. There are various possible results from breast augmentation surgery because of the currently available different types and sizes of breasts implants. However, there is a realistic range of implants for each patient, and patients cannot go in for any size. You need to have realistic expectations before choosing the implant, depending on your current size.
Myth You have to replace the implants after every 10 years.
Though like any other prosthetic, implants won’t last forever, they don’t have any particular expiry date. Generally, the implants need to be replaced due to their rupture, capsular contracture, leakage, or a complication with the scar tissue around the breast implant, but not particularly after 10 years. You need regular follow-ups to detect any problem with the implants or breasts.
Myth Autoimmune diseases caused by breast implants.
There is no scientific evidence to prove that breast implants cause autoimmune diseases. According to some recent research, a unique type of lymphoma known as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma can be associated with textured implants, but it is very rare and can be treated.
Myth Implants are not good during breastfeeding.
There is no evidence of medical risk for babies or the mother with saline or silicone breast implants during breastfeeding.
Myth Any cosmetic surgeon can perform breast implant surgery.
Breast augmentation surgery is an aesthetic and comprehensive procedureand should be performed by a trained and board certified plastic surgeons. This procedure requires a thorough assessment of the patient’s anatomy, which is best done by an experienced plastic surgeon.
Myth Breasts will look perfect just after the implant surgery
At first, there may be some swelling and the implants will appear higher on the chest. The breast will become more natural-looking and the implants will settle over time. This period can be some weeks, and sometimes longer.
Myth Getting breast implants will give you the perfect body
Breast implants can change the appearance of your breasts, but not of the entire body. You should have a realistic expectation from the surgery in case of breast augmentation. You can expect beautiful new breasts, but not a perfect new body.
Myth All breast implants look fake and huge
This is one of the most common myths about breast implants today, that they look huge and fake. A patient should choose a size and type of implant which gives her a natural look and fits her body type in a real way. To make the implants look both natural and beautiful, select a proper size and placement for your body during your consultation with your plastic surgeon. Most of the time people cannot tell if a patient has had a breast augmentation by look or by feel, if done keeping these parameters in mind.
Myth Recovery is very painful after the breast augmentation surgery
Recovery following a breast augmentation may vary for each patient. Most patients rarely have any pain during the breast augmentation recovery. In the first 24 hours of the surgery, you will feel some discomfort, like the ache after an intense workout. You can use over-the-counter pain medication and prescriptions on your doctor’s recommendation. There might be some swelling, bruising and nausea for a day or two. Follow-up visits to the doctor during the period of recovery are always a big help.
Dr Sameer Karkhanis is Cosmetic Surgeon, Centre for Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery