Too Old for Breast Augmentation

Did you know that breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic plastic surgery in the US? Each year, thousands of women choose a surgical option for safely and effectively enhancing their bustline. Most commonly, this is accomplished through the use of breast implants, which are soft synthetic implants that add beautiful round shape and volume to the breasts. While women of all ages commonly undergo this procedure, most advertisements showcase examples of young women in their 20s. However, in reality, the majority of women choosing breast implantation are in their 30s, 40’s and 50s. Oftentimes, these women choose to have breast implants due to the changes that take place in the breasts due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, leaving many women feeling dissatisfied with their breasts. For many women, breast implantation offers a great solution for women hoping to feel more confident in their body again. This blog post will discuss the topic of breast augmentation with implants, as well as address the common question, “Am I too old for implants?”

Let’s start by discussing the options for breast implantation. Breast implants can be divided into two basic groups: Saline and silicone. Saline implants are composed of a thin plastic shell that is filled with a sterile saline solution. Silicone implants, on the other hand, are made of solid silicone throughout. Saline and silicone implants are both great options for many patients, and this decision usually comes down to a one-on-one conversation between the patient and surgeon about their goals for their appearance. Other blog posts that review this topic specifically can be found in the Blog section of this website. Other considerations for breast implants include implant placement (if the implant will be placed above or below the muscle), and scar location (in the armpit, around the areola, or under the breast fold). These considerations are discussed in detail at each patient’s one-on-one consultation with Dr. Temmen. During this visit, patients can discuss what kind of result they are hoping for, as well as review real patient before and after photos to view examples of past patient transformations. Dr. Temmen also allows patients to “try on” different implants underneath clothing to help patients visualize what different shapes and sizes would look like and find their perfect fit.

Next, let’s discuss the breast implantation procedure itself. First, the plastic surgeon creates a surgical “pocket” in the breast where the implant will sit. Then, the implant is placed into the pocket. Saline implants are placed in the surgical pocket and then filled up with saline once in place, whereas silicone implants are solid and so are directly implanted as is. Once the implants are in place, Dr. Temmen takes time to ensure a beautiful, symmetrical appearance and makes any necessary adjustments to implant size or position. Then, the small incisions are closed, taking care to conceal the scars as much as possible in natural skin folds, whether it be in the armpit, around the areola, or under the breast fold.

Now that we’ve broken down the different options and procedure for breasts implantation, let’s address the common patient question, “Am I too old for breast implants?” In short, the answer is probably not! Dr. Temmen is an expert at breast augmentation with implants in women across a wide age spectrum, from young women born with underdeveloped or hypoplastic breasts, to women in their 60s and beyond. More than age, it is important that any surgical candidate is in good health, feels ready to have surgery, and has reasonable expectations for their result. In addition, one extra factor to consider in older women is it is more common for this population to have breasts that have been affected by gravity over time, and are now in a lower position on the chest wall. Many of these women choose to undergo a combined breast augmentation with implants and breast lift, where excess sagging tissue is removed to lift the breasts at the same time that the implants are placed. This ensures a perky and youthful result, as well as a boost in volume and breast fullness.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen understands that the decision to get breast implants comes with many questions and worries, and stands ready to offer a listening ear and her surgical expertise to those who are interested in learning more breast augmentation with implants. In addition, she encourages everyone to look through the Gallery section of this website to see real examples of stunning patient transformations for themselves! If you would like to learn more about if you may be a good candidate for this life-changing procedure, simply call 813-771-6393 to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Traci Temmen, MD today!