As your lifestyle, health, and aesthetic goals change, you may decide to remove or replace your breast implants. Healing from explant surgery is critical to achieving your desired outcome, enhancing your appearance and quality of life. With breast implant removal, board-certified Orland Park plastic surgeon Dr. David Dreyfuss helps Chicagoland women resolve implant-related health complications or enter a new stage of their lives.

Breast explant recovery is similar to healing from breast augmentation. You should anticipate taking one to two weeks off from your everyday activities to rest and focus on self-care. If you have any concerns or questions, Dr. Dreyfuss and his team are only a phone call away.

In this post, Dr. Dreyfuss shares eight tips for a quick and comfortable breast implant removal recovery.

What Is Breast Implant Removal?

Explant surgery is the process of removing breast implants. Women in Chicago are increasingly opting to remove their implants for multiple reasons. Some patients are dissatisfied with their results after breast augmentation, while others experience complications. The most common reasons for explant surgery are:

  • Don’t like the feel or look
  • Ruptures or leaks
  • Capsular contracture
  • Size adjustments

During the procedure, Dr. Dreyfuss may remove scar tissue or silicone from implant leaks. You may wish swap old implants for a different shape, size, or material, or you may no longer want implants at all. You don’t need a particular reason to remove implants. While the surgical process is straightforward, choosing a highly qualified plastic surgeon is vital to achieving an optimal outcome.

How Long Does It Take to Fully Recover From Breast Implant Removal?

You may have some uncertainties about getting an explant surgery, especially when you consider how this procedure might affect your life. Like most patients, explant recovery is a necessary detail to consider when contemplating the procedure.

Because you’ve already had breast surgery, you have some idea of what to expect. However, if your original procedure was several years ago, your previous recovery may not be the best yardstick.

Since everyone heals at a different rate, no surgeon can guarantee a specific recovery timeline. However, we can estimate based on other patients’ experiences.

  • On average, most women can return to work in a week.
  • Jobs that require strenuous lifting or movement require a longer recovery.

Remember, it’s vital to listen to your body and get plenty of rest. Rushing back into your usual routine too soon can cause complications and adversely affect your results.

Explant Surgery Recovery Tips

Expect to spend the first several days after surgery recovering at home. Typically, we remove sutures and fitted drains two or three days after surgery. During this time, you should not work or engage in physical activity. In addition, you must avoid exposing your incisions to the sun, abrasion, excessive pulling, or stretching as they heal.

Here are Dr. Dreyfuss’ top eight post-surgery recovery tips for explant patients.

1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Aftercare Instructions

Before you leave the surgery center and go home to recover, Dr. Dreyfuss and his staff will give you a list of what you can do to speed your healing process. Make sure you follow these instructions to the letter. If you have any questions regarding the directions, call us for clarification.

2. Wear a Compression Garment or Surgical Bra

Compression garments are vital to postoperative care for plastic surgery patients. They accelerate healing by helping you manage swelling, bruising, and discomfort after explant surgery.

There are several advantages to using compression garments:

  • Reduce swelling, bruising, and skin sagging
  • Promote blood circulation
  • Reduce postoperative discomfort
  • Are comfortable to wear
  • Help achieve optimal benefits

In many instances, Dr. Dreyfuss will fit you with a medically approved compression garment. You should wear this at all times, except when bathing or showering. After your initial follow-up appointment with Dr. Dreyfuss, he will advise when you can remove the compression garment for extended periods.

3. Avoid Strenuous Activities or Lifting Heavy Objects

After explant surgery, it will take several weeks to regain strength, but your endurance should return to normal in time. Follow these guidelines during your recovery:

  • Perform any muscle toning exercises Dr. Dreyfuss suggests.
  • Do not lift anything weighing more than 10 pounds – including children, laundry, and groceries – until six weeks after the surgery.
  • After six weeks, you may gradually lift heavier items if it does not cause discomfort around your incisions.
  • Walking and stair climbing are excellent workouts for strength and conditioning. Start taking five- to 10-minute walks around your home, yard, or neighborhood the day after your surgery and slowly increase every week week.
  • Do not do strenuous exercises like contact sports, tennis, jogging, or weightlifting for at least two months after your operation.
  • It is normal to get tired more quickly after surgery. Pace yourself, and don’t overdo it.

4. Get Plenty of Rest and Avoid Activities That Put Stress on Your Chest

Depending on your job, you may need to take between one and two weeks off work. During this time, sleep as much as you feel you need to. Your entire focus should be rest and recovery, to take catnaps throughout the day if you are drowsy. If you feel alert and well-rested, there’s no need to nap.

Getting enough uninterrupted sleep during recovery is crucial because your body does most of its healing during the REM sleep phase. Unfortunately, the cycle starts over when you wake up, so if you awaken before your REM phase, your brain will begin from scratch when you fall back asleep.

5. Eat a Healthy Diet and Stay Hydrated

The meals you eat in the days, weeks, and months after your explant surgery can affect your recovery and healing. Nutritional awareness can prevent post-surgery complications like infections and constipation.

When filling your fridge and pantry for recovery, consider opportunities to improve your typical diet. For example, you may reach for processed foods because they are convenient, but prepared meals often include artificial ingredients and added sodium and sugar.

Eating more fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean meats like chicken and turkey can enhance your body’s healing process. To prevent dehydration, keep a glass of water nearby at all times.

6. Attend Follow-Up Appointments With Dr. Dreyfuss

During early recovery from explant surgery, you will require additional medical attention to remove sutures and evaluate your healing process. Dr. Dreyfuss will schedule post-procedure follow-up appointments that he expects you to keep.

Dr. Dreyfuss sees each of his patients after their surgery multiple times to review healing progress, update recommendations for the safest recovery, and achieve the best benefits possible. The cost of these post-operation visits is part of your surgical fees.

7. Consider Physical Therapy or Rehabilitation

Healing from breast surgery means using your chest muscles and upper body as little as possible. We recommend you allow four weeks before resuming your usual exercise routine. Instead, you can get your heart rate up with gentle walks.

A physical therapist can design a post-surgery program that efficiently complements your healing and helps you adapt to your new chest contour while quickly normalizing breast sensitivity. In addition, massage therapy is beneficial and improves comfort levels during your recovery. 

8. Take Time to Adjust Emotionally and Psychologically After Surgery

Surgically changing any aspect of your appearance is a significant decision. While healing from your explant procedure, you may find yourself struggling with emotional ups and downs. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help when you need it. Find support from compassionate friends and family members, or work with a therapist. If you don’t feel mentally well, your recovery will be more challenging.

Why Partner With Dr. Dreyfuss?

In addition to amassing several years of surgical practice and earning certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. David Dreyfuss brings a unique blend of artistry, skill, and compassion to his craft. Patients from Chicago and beyond choose Dr. Dreyfuss for various surgical and non-surgical procedures, including breast augmentation, laser skin resurfacing, eyelid surgery, and much more.

When you call us for a consultation, know that Dr. Dreyfuss will work you personally, from your initial visit to the final post-operative appointment. If you’re seeking a change by removing your breast implants and need more information about explant surgery, we invite you to come and visit us to learn more about our practice.

You can book a virtual consultation with Dr. Dreyfuss or call our office at (815) 806-9400.

For most women who undergo breast augmentation, their implants give them a positive experience with their appearance and self-esteem. Breast implant surgery is a safe, low-risk procedure and an enduringly popular cosmetic surgery for women.

However, you may experience some rare complications or symptoms concerning their implants. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Dreyfuss and his staff take breast implant illness seriously and fully understand the discomfort and toll it can take on a woman’s overall well-being.

If you are suffering from an array of health symptoms that have no other evident cause and are looking for answers, you can learn more here, including the options available for relief.

Are Breast Implants Safe?

Silicone and saline breast implants are FDA-approved medical devices to add volume to undersized or deflated breasts. However, as with all surgeries, some associated risks may appear over time. While rare, mild, and correctable, these possible complications include:

  • Implant rupture
  • Implant displacement
  • Capsular contracture
  • Implant malfunction
  • Infection
  • Loss of nipple sensation
  • Allergic reaction
  • Breast implant illness

What Is Breast Implant Illness?

Besides mechanical malfunctions and surgical risks like infection and capsular contracture, there’s another implant-related danger you should be aware of. Breast implant illness is an array of symptoms some women experience after breast augmentation – ranging from mild discomfort to severe physical and psychological issues.

If your physician has screened you for other health problems and hasn’t arrived at an accurate diagnosis, your silicone or saline implants may be the culprit.

How Do Doctors Diagnose Breast Implant Illness?

The best way to describe the method health professionals use to diagnose breast implant illness is the process of elimination. When your doctors have ruled out other possible causes and you have undergone breast implant surgery, it’s reasonable to deduce that your implants are the source of the health issue. However, there is no concrete process to confidently determine whether implants indeed cause the symptoms, even if you decide to get them removed.

What Are Symptoms Related to Breast Implant Illness?

Breast implant illness may present various mental and physical symptoms that differ from patient to patient. The most common include:

  • Muscle soreness
  • Recurring headaches
  • Joint pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dry mouth and dry eyes
  • Skin rash
  • Irregular bowels
  • Thinning or loss of hair
  • Insomnia
  • Memory loss
  • Confusion
  • Depression

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should schedule a consultation with a board-certified physician to discuss a diagnosis and possible solutions to improve your quality of life.

What Are Your Treatment Options?

The optimal approach to relieve breast implant illness symptoms is to have your implants removed. During your consultation, a qualified doctor will discuss your symptoms, evaluate your condition, and determine the explant approach most appropriate for you.

Patients suspecting breast implant illness understand there is no guarantee explant surgery will resolve their condition. However, many patients experience complete symptom relief once they have their breast implants removed.

What About New Implants?

Most experts do not recommend breast implant illness patients replace their old implants with new ones. Often, Dr. Dreyfuss will recommend a breast lift or other treatment to help restore an appealing breast shape and position.

To learn more about breast implant illness in Chicago and how to get relief, contact us today for a discreet consultation with Dr. Dreyfuss.

You’ve made your decision to enhance your breasts. That’s the big decision, but not the last, because now you have a series of choices to make about your procedure. You know you want to go bigger, or broader, or have a better shape. But how do you know what implants will work best? First, you must consider projection and proportion. Sound’s easy—right?

Breast implant size and profile are the essential variables that will ensure your successful breast augmentation. You want your results to look natural and proportionate with the rest of your body. So, getting the implant right is critical for optimal breast augmentation results.

Going Too Small

At Dreyfuss Plastic Surgery, we often see women who went too small when choosing their implants. They come to us in Orland Park unsatisfied, wanting a revision to go bigger this time. Though we are happy to help you with your revision surgery, we always counsel our patients that it is critical to get the size right the first time around if possible. Adding another surgery increases the risk of complications like capsular contracture, pronounced scarring, or losing nipple sensation. 

Chicago board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Dreyfuss will consult with you on the best implant options that fit your body type and anatomy. You will have access to the latest technologies and expertise to determine the right size, type, and projection with your implant. Remember, the implants not only have to look good but be comfortable to carry around for years.

Going Too Large

When women choose implants too large for their bodies, it can throw the whole body out of balance. Not only can the woman’s figure end up looking disproportionate, but going too large can also cause discomfort from carrying around too much weight. Pain in the neck and lower back may even result. Also, activities like exercise or housework may become painful. 

The breast tissue may weaken with the added weight causing breasts to sag and droop. If the patient chooses to take the implants out at some point, the skin may have been stretched too thin to bounce back.

How To Choose Your Implants Well

As we said before, choosing your breast implants correctly is critical for a successful breast enhancement. But the most crucial decision will be who does the surgery. Board-certified plastic surgeons are extensively trained in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They also are held to the highest ethical standards in medicine. So, if you are considering breast augmentation with implants, choose well.

Learn More

If you would like more information about breast augmentation surgery and choosing the right implants, we would love to talk with you. Contact Dr. Dreyfuss today for a consultation to learn how to get the figure you’ve been dreaming about for some time. 

Contact him today to schedule a consultation at our state-of-the-art facility in Orland Park.

Breast augmentation is still one of the more popular cosmetic surgeries performed today with hundreds of thousands of women in the United States receiving implants annually. As implants’ material and technology improving, demand for the procedure is predicted to stay strong. 

Building upon breast implant procedures 50 years in the making, medical manufacturers have been developing extraordinary technology that lowers risk and avoids complications while delivering more options with better outcomes. 

More Implant Options

When breast implant surgeries began in the 1960s, the only real choice for breast implants was to increase size. Silicone implants were not available; smooth saline implants were the only game in town. In 2006, silicone implants gained FDA approval, which triggered a flurry of research and development, resulting in significant advancements. 

Anatomically contoured “gummy bear” implants are the newest implant type. Distinguished by its more cohesive silicone gel, these implants do not leak when their shell is ruptured. Many plastic surgeons and patients alike believe these produce better outcomes when compared to traditional silicone implants with a fill that’s more liquid. Available in multiple shapes and sizes, gummy bear implants accommodate any body type. 

Advanced Surgical Techniques

The increased efficiency of today’s breast augmentation operations means less downtime and more comfortable recovery. In years past, surgeons would create a pocket to insert the implant using techniques which could cause damage to breast muscle and tissue. Currently, techniques are more precise, resulting in less postoperative pain, less bleeding, and shorter recovery. With the inception of the Keller Funnel, an FDA-approve device which allows for a “no-touch” technique with shorter incisions, recovery is easier and shorter for the patient. 

3-D Previews

Advanced technology also offers 3-D imaging, which gives the patient a preview of her results. This step has increased patient satisfaction with their outcomes. Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. David Dreyfuss relies on this advanced tool to help his patients visualize what the procedure can do for them. It is significantly better than the previous attempts at predicting outcomes like using a stuffed nylon stocking or placing implants under the bra. In addition to the inclusion of all shapes, sizes, and manufacturers, the 3-D preview system can display differences in the symmetry and volume between a patient’s current breasts and those they will get surgically. 

A Better Understand of Complications

Researchers are cracking the risks related to breast augmentation surgery, specifically capsular contracture. This complication occurs when scar tissue hardens around the implants, causing discomfort and sometimes displacement. Although surgeons are not sure what causes this problem, researchers have made significant advances in identifying several factors that may be linked with capsular contracture. They include:

  • Submuscular vs. subglandular placement: Evidence reveals breast implant placement under the pectoral muscles develops less capsular contracture than implants placed above the muscle. 
  • Oversized implants: Research reveals that implants which aren’t proportionate to a patient’s body are more likely to develop extensive scar tissue. 
  • Smoking: Doctors today are now able to warn their smoking patients of the risks they’re more likely to encounter, including capsular contracture. With more people stopping smoking, better surgical outcomes have followed. 
  • Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon: The beginning of breast implant surgery saw family physicians and other unspecialized health practitioners trying their hands at breast augmentation surgery. Today’s standards and rules help keep the complex surgeries in the trained plastic surgeon’s offices. Plastic surgeons often undergo 14 years of schooling and training (residencies) before opening their own practices. To stay sharp and aware of the most current procedures, surgeons must undergo continuing education to keep their board-certification. 

 

Strict rules have also lead to surgeons operating only in fully accredited facilities that insist on strict infection protocols. 

As the advances in breast augmentation materials and techniques continue, so does the popularity of the procedure. If you’re interested in breast augmentation, a breast lift or reduction, do not hesitate to call the offices of Dr. David Dreyfuss at 815-806-9400. You can also schedule our consultation and ask your questions via our online form. We’ll make sure to get back to you quickly!

Breast augmentations are one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the US. This procedure is so popular because it is safe, effective and customizable to the individual. There are many choices to consider when thinking about breast augmentation and we have broken down the most important ones for you below! If you would like to get more details about this procedure, schedule a consultation or contact us here!

When it comes to breast augmentation, there are a lot of decisions you need to make beyond size, including:

  • Material: Silicone or Saline
  • Shape: Round or Teardrop
  • Placement: Under or Above Muscle
  • Incision: Under the Breast or Around the Nipple
  • Surgeon: Should always be Board-Certified & Experienced

A big decision in planning for breast enhancement surgery is to choose between silicone or saline breast implants. There are benefits to both, and you should decide on the implant which will work best for you. The purpose of this information provided is to help you choose the best implant design for your unique lifestyle and body.

Saline Breast Implants

Saline implants consist of a silicone shell which is inserted empty then inflated with a saline solution after proper placement. The position can be either above or below the pectoralis muscle. Saline is a salt water solution which is similar to a natural fluid found in the body.

The surface of the saline implant is either textured or smooth with the implant itself varying in shape, profile, shell thickness, and volume. One advantage of the saline implant is the amount of fluid can be calibrated easily to ensure the best volume and firmness possible after placement.

Advantages of Saline Implants

  • Ability to increase or decrease volume after placement
  • Silicone shell filled with a salt-water solution which is very close a natural body fluid found in your body
  • Ruptures are easier to detect
  • Smaller incision required than with silicone
  • Cost is less than Silicone Implants

Disadvantages of Saline Implants

  • Rippling is more common than with Silicone implants
  • Firmer feel than natural breast
  • Does not have the natural look or feel of a Silicone implant

Overview

Most patients who choose saline implants do so because they believe it is safer, in the rare event of a rupture, because of the harmless saline solution and their ability to provide early detection. The main drawback, however, is they lack the natural feel and look of normal breasts. Also, for patients with little breast tissue, rippling is a concern.

The FDA recommends patients be 18 years or older for Saline Implants.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants consist of a durable silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel which has the feel of natural breast tissue. These implants are available in round and anatomic (teardrop) shape with textured or smooth surfaces. Most silicone implants are not adjustable, so, the incision used to insert the breast implant is larger than what is necessary for saline implants. Unlike saline implants, the size is permanent and not adjustable.

Some surgeons recommend silicone implants for women with little breast tissue to hide the implant. If the patient has enough breast tissue to cover the implant, the outcome will be comparable with saline or silicone implants. When the patient has little body fat and a small amount of breast tissue, the silicone implants can provide a more natural result. A recommendation will come during a breast augmentation consultation.

Silicone Breast Implant advantages:

  • Suitable for any body type
  • Less chance of rippling
  • Will not leak if ruptured
  • Predictable outcome with a set volume amount
  • Patients with little breast tissue can still have a natural breast feel and appearance
  • Feels much like the natural breast
  • A skilled surgeon can place breast implant with Areolar (nipple incision), inframammary (under the breast fold) or trans-axillary (under the armpit)

Disadvantages

  • Rupture hard to detect without MRI
  • Larger incisions necessary
  • Higher cost
  • Larger implant may eliminate some incision techniques

Overview

Many patients choose silicone because it has a more natural feel and look than its saline alternative. MRIs are recommended three years after surgery and every two years afterward to find any possible leaks or ruptures.

The FDA recommends patients should be 22 years or older for Silicone Implants.

Silicone Versus Saline Implants

A major concern with many breast augmentation patients is the risk of rupture. An advantage the saline implant has is it will deflate immediately making the rupture obvious to the patient. Also, with the saline solution very close to a natural body fluid, there is no issue other than aesthetic.

Implants may rupture because of capsular contracture or physical trauma. Capsular contracture is a response of the body’s immune system to foreign objects like breast implants. Because silicone implants are filled with a gel type filling, it is harder to determine when or if a rupture occurs. Therefore, we recommend a periodic MRI to make sure everything is OK with the silicone implant.

Making the Decision

There is a lot to process when deciding on the optimal breast implant for your surgery. The right choice is available when you consider your body type, desired outcome, and who will perform the surgery. At Dreyfuss Plastic Surgery, we take the time to listen to what you want and hear all your concerns. Dr. Dreyfuss will provide his professional recommendation based on his training and vast experience with breast surgery.

To learn more about choosing the right breast implant, contact us to schedule a breast augmentation consultation.

Call us at 815-806-9400 or Contact Us Today!

 

Okay, we know an Arctic blast is affecting much of the Midwest this winter. We understand the last thing women are thinking about now is slipping on their bathing suit or into their favorite summer dress. But we also understand a girl must prepare to look her best when the attire is more revealing. That’s why it’s not too early for you to start preparing for your summer body.

And a great way to do just that is to consider enhancing your breasts. If you have been unsatisfied with your breast appearance due to weight fluctuation, childbearing, or genetics, breast augmentation surgery can be the solution to your problem. With today’s technology, technique, and products, having the breasts you dreamed about is possible with minimal risk and great results.

Advanced Technology

Since 1964, silicone breast implants have come a long way. Today, advanced technology, safer implants, and innovative tools enable Dr. Dreyfuss to offer more natural-looking outcomes, while reducing complications, risks, and recovery time.

Although the implants of yesteryear had made many women pause when considering breast augmentation, those days are long gone. With the advent of the gummy bear implant (silicone implants which hold their shape) and other advancements, women have a more favorable opportunity than their mothers and grandmothers. The rare risk of leakage and a natural feel has attracted many patients to move forward with the procedure.

Additionally, advanced surgical technique and optimal incision placement have reduced many of the complications such as capsular contraction and scarring.

Technology advances include:

  • Ultrasound:  An MRI used to be the most common procedure to determine the breast’s health and proper implant type. However, today, an ultrasound is a less costly and less-invasive alternative which can help Dr. Dreyfuss examine the breast tissue surrounding the implant for quicker results.
  • Incision Technology: Improved technology and technique have greatly reduced the risk of scarring and improved the sensation in the breast tissue and nipple. Additionally, advanced therapeutic techniques make wound healing faster and reduce the visibility of scars.
  • Improved Tools: Modern technology provides several advanced tools which aid Dr. Dreyfuss in breast implant placement. For example, the Keller Funnel enables breast implant placement without Dr. Dreyfuss having to touch them. This tool allows for smaller incisions, less bruising and swelling, and reduced risk of infection.

Planning Your Summer Body

It’s important for women desiring breast enhancement to have a plan. Here are some important things to consider before having breast surgery:

Allow Adequate Time for Surgery and Recovery

Candidates must understand it may take weeks to recover from a surgical procedure like breast augmentation — plus more time for the results to look great and stabilize. To guarantee you are summer wear ready, give yourself time to recover from the procedure.

Hide Bruising, Swelling, and Incisions

Cold temperatures are perfect for recovery. It gives the patient an excuse to wear layers like jackets, sweaters, and overcoats. These added layers will help camouflage swelling, support garments, bandages, and healing incisions. Winter allows your body a period to fly under the radar while recovering.

Hibernate with No Guilt

Outdoor activities are not as frequent here in the Chicago area during the winter months. This break will allow you to avoid public outings while you heal. It will also allow you to avoid sun exposure which is not good for incision healing. It’s a great time to hibernate without much notice.

Also, with all the holiday festivities done and dusted for the year, the upcoming months are a great time to book surgery.

Benefits of breast augmentation surgery:

  • Aesthetic Benefits: Breast augmentation improves the feminine figure by reshaping your bust line, enhancing your breast size, and improving your body shape and contour. It enhances your body’s profile and defines curves leading to a more sensual presence. A perky and firm bust will enhance your summer wardrobe to be more striking and expressive.

 

  • Physical benefits: Breast Augmentation will also provide breasts which are more consistent with your body type. Optimal size and shape will allow for more symmetry and firmness which may diminish because of pregnancy, weight fluctuation, breastfeeding, or a mastectomy. It may also be more comfortable to have breasts which aptly fit your body.

 

  • Psychological benefits: Emotional improvement emerges because a younger and more feminine appearance will improve any woman’s confidence and self-esteem. This benefit will become abundantly clear during the warmer months when the improved body contour is evident in summer clothes and swimsuits.

 

  • Personal and social benefits: many studies have indicated a woman who has breast augmentation will experience improvement in their personal lives and relationships. Their social life will be better because they become more outgoing and confident. This benefit can affect their personal as well as professional relationships. Their social and professional opportunities will greatly improve.

Summarily, breast implant surgery is beneficial for every facet of a woman’s life.

 You May Need a Lift

A breast lift is a procedure which is designed to elevate breasts which droop or point downward. To determine if you need a breast lift simply look to see if your nipples are below your natural breast crease. A breast lift can be done concurrently with breast augmentation to improve breast firmness, size, shape, and elevation.

Book a Consultation

So, for more information about how you can start preparing for your Summer Body, please contact us for a consultation.

Call us at 815-806-9400 or Contact Us Today!

 

 

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.

 

 

 

Women of all ages want to look their best. And their breasts’ appearance is of high concern because it influences their confidence and self-esteem.

At age 40, many women are considering breast augmentation surgery. Whether it’s because of the consequences of pregnancy and breastfeeding, the natural effects of aging, or a desire for a more youthful look, they seek medical assistance in achieving a new appearance.

So, what should a woman in her 40s know about breast augmentation?

Mammograms

Most doctors endorse regular mammograms for women starting at age 40. Also, when a woman considers breast implants, she is likely required to have a mammogram before surgery. This practice sets a baseline for future mammograms because breast implants can obscure mammogram results.

Because breast implants affect future mammograms, it’s important to advise your mammographer of their presence so they so can adjust the procedure properly. They may require additional views for proper breast imaging.

Some women are concerned that the squeezing of a mammogram could displace or rupture their breast implants, causing a need for additional surgery. However, breast implants should not become displaced or rupture with a mammogram. Yes, they are pressed and squeezed during the process, but a properly placed implant should not have these issues.

Breast Lift

Women tend to have realistic expectations about breast augmentation outcomes when they reach the age of 40. A major concern with these women is a loss of volume which leaves the excess skin on the breast due to weight loss or childbirth. Here, the plastic surgeon must evaluate if this excess skin will hinder the aesthetics of the breast implant.

When enough excess skin exists to undermine the appearance of the procedure, the patient may require a breast lift done concurrently with her breast augmentation. However, a breast lift may result in additional scarring than a standalone breast augmentation procedure.

Despite these concerns, it’s not a mystery why more women older than 40 choose to have breast augmentation surgery. Because this age group of women are self-assured about their place in life and are more financially secure than many younger women, they tend to make the decision easily. All women, no matter their age, wish to look the best they can with the resources available to them.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Many women see turning 40 as the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in their life. For many, most of the responsibilities of raising young children and addressing financial challenges are behind them.

Cosmetic medicine affords them the ability to turn back the clock on their body. Here are some reasons why getting breast implants is popular with women in their 40s:

Breast Implants Rejuvenate Aging Breasts

A woman’s breast suffers many changes during her 20s and 30s. Decreasing estrogen levels may cause a loss of breast volume over time. Also, age-related effects include loss of firmness and elasticity. The results are sagging breasts.

Breast implants can be a great solution for women who feel their breast do not have the youthful appearance they once enjoyed. Implants can restore volume and perkiness while addressing some sagging as well. Even though severe sagging may cause a woman to need a breast lift, a breast augmentation may address milder sagging without a breast lift.

Although some women fear that their implants will look fake, the advanced technology of breast implants today has provided more natural outcomes than in times past. Also, the sheer number of options designed to fit individual body types can result in a breast that is natural in both appearance and touch.

Childbearing is Over

At age 40 most women have finished having children. In fact, their life is starting to open up as their children are older and more self-sufficient. The great thing about being 40 is the wait to improve your breast contour may be over, and you can look forward to perkier, fuller breasts.

You Can Look Great at 40

With the increased focus on fitness and nutrition, many women in their 40s are looking younger and more fit than ever. Age is just a number, and women still want to look appealing and gorgeous at 40 and beyond!

Adding medical grade aesthetic procedures to the mix, women have become aware of how to have a healthy, vibrant appearance well after the age of 40. By becoming self-confident with a curvy figure, and embracing their feminine appearance, the modern woman is breaking age barriers on how they look as they advance in years!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

People say that you get to know yourself by your 30s; that seems especially true for women. By your 30s, you’ve started and established careers, families, lifelong hobbies, and so much more. You have a better sense of what it is you want in life and what you need to do to make it a little bit better. Timing wise, it’s one of the best times to get breast surgery. It’s why statistically, the majority of women who get plastic surgery get it in their 30s. If you’re in your 30s, there’s no better time to get breast surgery. In the next installment of our series on breast surgery, we’re going to tell you what you should know about getting breast surgery in your 30s.

The Right Look

When you’re at an age where you have a sense of clarity about what you want in life, it’s a little easier to make a decision on whether to get plastic surgery. That’s a great thing; in fact, many surgeons stress that patients truly understand their motivations before undergoing plastic surgery. To surgeons, the ideal patient is someone who has realistic expectations on what breast surgery can do for them.

That’s why if you’re considering breast surgery, it’s crucial that you understand what look you’re trying to achieve. Are you trying to achieve a dramatically curvaceous silhouette? Are you just trying to boost your curves so that you can look good in certain dresses? Or are you simply trying to feel more feminine and alluring? Regardless of what your goals are, it’s crucial that you can communicate them to your surgeon so that you can achieve them.

Make It Fit

Of course, it’s not all about following an aesthetic. If you’re considering breast surgery, especially breast implants, it’s crucial that you get the right size to fit your lifestyle. Women in their 30s are usually at the point in their lives where they’re busy building a career, so they tend to have breast augmentation that’s more moderate in size. Women in their 30s today also tend to have a more active lifestyle, so they choose a size of implants that won’t interfere with exercise.

Do You See Kids in the Picture?

It’s a personal question, sure, but also an important one when it comes to breast surgery. If you’re wondering about whether to have kids, or have more kids in the future, it might be best to hold off on breast surgery. Your breasts tend to transform in shape and size thanks to pregnancy and breast feeding, so if you get breast surgery before having kids, your results might not last very long. Of course, there is always secondary breast surgery to help you achieve the same results all over again—but some women try to avoid that.

Breast Surgery with the Mommy Makeover

You don’t have to stop at combining two different types of breast surgery; you can combine your breast treatments with other plastic surgery procedures to give yourself a mommy makeover. A mommy makeover is a combination of facial, breast, and body procedures meant to reverse the effects of motherhood on a woman’s figure.

Incision Decision

One of the biggest benefits of breast surgery? Getting new clothes. And if you’re someone who likes tube tops, sleeveless blouses and the like, you’ll need to get the right kinds of incisions to make sure they’re not visible with certain outfits. One kind of incision, called the transaxillary incision, is placed under the armpit. While this allows your breasts to remain scar-free, you will have a faded scar under your armpit. Other incisions, like the ones around your nipples or under the breast, will be easier to hide.

Plan for an Easy Recovery

Whether you’re running a family, a career, or both—you need to strike a balance in your life. A major surgical procedure like a breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, or mommy makeover can seriously disrupt your schedule. For instance, while your breasts are healing, you won’t be able to lift anything heavier than a milk jug for at least two weeks. In fact, you’ll probably be resting (with some light walking a few times a day) for most the first week of your recovery!

That doesn’t mean you can’t have both—it just means you’ll probably need the help of a partner, trusted friend, or family member during your recovery.

Is there anything better than being in your 30s? Possibly one thing: getting breast surgery from a compassionate, experienced surgeon. If you’re ready to change the rest of your life with breast surgery, contact Dreyfuss Plastic Surgery now to have a consultation with our renowned plastic surgeon.