Breast augmentation surgery can make a woman feel sexier and more confident…but for how long? It’s a question we’re often asked here at Costhetics and one we hope this article will help answer.
What Is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery, sometimes referred to as augmentation mammoplasty, involves the surgical placement of a medical device known as a breast implant. An implant has a shell or envelope made of silicone.The shell is filled with either silicone gel or a saline solution or a combination of both.
Women choose breast augmentation surgery to:
- Increase breast fullness
- Increase projection of the breasts
- Restore breast symmetry
- Restore breast volume after weight loss or childbirth
- Mastectomy
Breast implants will last longer when they have been sized correctly. If an implant is too heavy for the breast cavity it’s been placed into, the excessive weight can cause the breasts to sag, sometimes earlier than normal. This will mar the aesthetic effects of the procedure.
On the other hand, when an implant is properly fitted, the breast tissue and implant fall together, actually making the augmentation look even more natural.
The Lifespan of Breast Implants
The longevity of breast implants varies widely. There is a lot of confusion about exactly hot long. Some patients need to replace implants within ten years years following surgery while others keep the same implants forever. Current silicone gel implants are much more durable than ones made 20 years ago. So, if you’ve had your breasts augmented in the last 5 or so years, more than likely your implants will last a very long time.
To read more about breast augmentation click here.
Breast Implant + Breast Lift = Long-Lasting Results
It’s important to know that breast augmentation with implants cannot correct severely drooping breasts. The only solution that can fully correct sagging breasts is a breast lift. During a breast lift, the tissue is surgically repositioned higher on the chest.
Breasts will naturally (and inevitably) continue to sag as we age. Blame the effects of gravity. But with a breast lift, you will not experience the same degree of sagging in the future as you would without one.
Breast implants and breast lifts can be performed separately or together. A discussion with your surgeon will help you determine the best approach for you.