What You Should Know About Breast Surgery in Your 50s

Whenever there’s an age-related question concerning breast augmentation, it always seems to focus on young women. The truth is, older women are seeking the surgery more than ever before because they want to regain the curves they used to have.

Getting breast augmentation in your 50s comes with different dynamics. Today, there are more and more women in their 50s that get breast augmentation. Their bodies have changed, and they have seen the benefits of implants during their more mature years when age, skin laxity, and gravity have affected them. Breast augmentation allows women of more mature years to age more gracefully.

What Happened to Your Breasts?

Several factors lead to sagging breast tissue. Stress, gravity, motherhood, and breastfeeding may cause significant changes to the shape and size of the breast. Other changes such as sagging, lumpectomies, mastectomies, or trauma have led to an unprecedented amount of women in their 50s who decide to get breast augmentation. So, that raises the question: what’s the right age to get breast implants?

Are You Too Old?

The answer is simple: adult women in good health can get breast implants at any time. Many older women realize amazing results with breast implants. Some women over 50 opt for breast implants after their mastectomy. Other simply choose breast augmentation for a boost in self-confidence and to make a positive physical change.

It’s a Different World with Breast Implants

In the past, women had limited options with breast augmentation; round, saline implants used to dominate the marketplace. Today, there is a selection of saline or silicone breast implants that are more in tune with natural body types.

Advancements in breast implant technology and surgical procedures have led to more women being open with the procedure because they offered better results and safer surgical techniques.

But Is It Right for You?

Older women should understand what breast augmentation can do for them. Realistic expectations will dictate that although their breast appearance will improve, breast implants will not restore the breasts they had when they were 21.

To determine if you are a good candidate, you need to consider your health – not your age! Because breast augmentation is surgery and all surgeries have a certain amount of risk, you should have a healthy immune system and no serious medical conditions.

You should be honest to your surgeon about the state of your health. You should be prepared to discuss your medical history and any prescribed medication you take presently.

Breast Lift

Most women over the age of 40 require a breast lift. Combining a breast lift with breast augmentation is quite common, and they allow women to achieve fuller, younger-looking breasts.

A breast lift is a better option if your main concern is sagging breasts and if you don’t mind a little loss of breast volume.

You may need a lift if:

  • Your breasts are sagging
  • Your nipples point downwards
  • Your nipples have become stretched

Concerns for Breast Augmentation Over the Age of 50

After deciding breast augmentation is right for you, it is important to consider certain factors that are unique for your age.

The quality of your skin and its ability to support implants is another concern. It is vital that your skin is healthy and strong enough to sustain the position of your breast implants. Skin health is also critical to recovery. Will your skin heal properly after surgery? Dr. Dreyfuss will assess your skin before surgery.

Patients should know about the effects that implant have on breast cancer screenings. There is no clinical evidence that breast implants reduce or increase the chance of cancer, but patients should alert the mammogram technician of their implants so that they can get an accurate reading.

What is probably the most important decision to make when considering breast augmentation over 50 is the surgeon. You will want someone with a high level of training and skill, and who has experience performing breast augmentations and breast lifts. You will also want them to be board-certified, so that you can ensure that they extensive aesthetic surgical training and expertise.

Moreover, make sure your surgeon has the skills to create the balanced results you’re looking for. You’ll have specific needs and aesthetic goals, so make sure you’re working with someone that knows how to help you achieve them.

For more information about breast augmentation after 50, call Dr. Dreyfuss at 815-806-9400 or contact us here.