14 Apr What Women Over 50 Need To Know About Breast Augmentation
Over 50 And Considering Augmentation?
As a natural part of aging, the body can undergo changes in weight, shape, and appearance. Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves the placement of breast implants to increase the size, change the shape, or restore volume to the breasts. Augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery among women of all ages, including women 50 and older.
What are breast implants?
During breast augmentation surgery, a doctor puts a soft breast implant under the skin to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. Saline implants are made up of sterile saltwater inside a soft silicone shell. A structured saline implant has additional layers, producing a more natural result than traditional saline implants. Silicone implants contain a silicone gel inside the implant that feels natural. Gummy bear implants are made with a thicker silicone gel to prevent leakage.
Age is not a factor
While older age is not a direct contraindication to breast augmentation, the patient should be in good general health before undergoing any surgical procedure. The surgeon will assess the patient’s overall health and advise whether breast augmentation is a good option.
Choosing sizes, shapes, and incisions
Breast implants come in various sizes and shapes, including round and teardrop, also known as anatomical, due to a natural contoured appearance. Women can also choose between several options for incisions during breast augmentation, including under the breast, around the areola, and in the armpit. The surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each incision and help the patient choose the size and shape that will best suit the body.
Adding a lift
Over time, breasts can lose firmness and shape due to aging, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, eventually sagging. Women over 50 who undergo a breast augmentation procedure may require a breast lift at the same time to raise the drooping breasts and fix any asymmetry.
Recovery time may vary
The breast augmentation recovery time can vary from person to person. Patients should follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions and take any prescribed medications to help manage pain and discomfort. Most people can return to normal activities within a couple of weeks after the procedure but should avoid strenuous activities for several weeks to allow for proper healing. Breast augmentation results are not permanent, but most implants last 10-20 years.
Never too late
Breast augmentation can be an excellent option for women over 50 who want to restore breast volume and fullness or improve the shape and contour of the bustline. Patients should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss goals and determine if breast augmentation is the right option.