San Antonio Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Robert Young has taken a look at the
Top 10 Reasons to Get Breast Augmentation, but recently he's been asked to take a look at the Top 10 reasons why women might NOT want to get breast implants.
We all can safely assume that the prominent reason women want breast augmentation is to increase the size of their breasts. The reasons they choose do so, however, are as varied as the women who get breast implants. Whether a woman chooses saline breast implants or silicone gel breast implants, and whether they choose round, shaped, textured or smooth has little to do with whether or not they decide to get them in the first place.
What Dr. Young has found is that the reasons women delay or avoid getting breast implants boils down to ten or so most-cited reasons.
Here's our list:
"Afraid what others will think" This is actually more common than you might think. Even those determined to get their breasts enhanced often worry about this. Luckily, most people are very accepting of breast augmentation and in fact most forms of cosmetic surgery. Old stereotypes just don't hold up anymore.
"I'm happy with my breasts" Undoubtedly there may be women who actually are happy with their breasts just the way they are. Or at least it's their story and they're sticking to it!
"Husband/boyfriend doesn't want me to" This is also more common than you may think. Even with the progress women have made, they still look to their significant other for support and understanding. It's hard to pursue a procedure when the support is not there, although it begs the question of why he does not support it. Insecurity can rear its ugly head if the partner feels you may become more attractive to other men.
"Health conditions" Certainly this would seem a very legitimate reason. We advise women with health conditions that pose concern to talk to the primary physician they see for that condition and get medical clearance. If they feel it's okay, then you can rest assured that breast implant surgery should be okay for you. Many women with health conditions such as arthritis,
"I don't have the money" Finances do play a big role in a woman's decision to get the breast augmentation she's been dreaming about. However, there are many options including patient financing with attractive repayment terms that can help make it affordable to women of all ages. Some get help from friends or family who are willing to help as well.
"I can't get time off of work" Everyone has concerns these days about taking time off of work. You don't want to jeopardize your job, and you don't necessarily want everyone in the office to know that you're taking the time to get your breasts done. Most women we see take anywhere from a few days to a week or two off of work.
"I'm worried about breast cancer and whether the implants will hide something, or maybe even cause me to get cancer." Mammography has advanced so much over the last decade, and most experienced technicians know exactly how to deal with them. They've developed techniques that don't require the implant-crushing force that old-time visits used to. They're much more comfortable, and radiologists have learned to read the exams better. Studies have shown that there is no evidence that breast implants cause one to get cancer.
"I don't want to look like a clown and be laughed at. I've heard remarks some people make." This can happen, especially when women select implants that are much too big for their body. We encourage patients to try on a variety of sizes until they find those that feel best for them. You'll know whether you're picking something that's too big or that would make you feel clownish. Just remember, there are no set right-or-wrong answers when it comes to selecting the implants that you like best. Visiting a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who shows you what various size implants would look like on you is a good step toward a satisfying choice.
"I'm athletic and fear they'll interfere with my workouts/sports" We've seen runners, weightlifters, body builders, cyclists, swimmers, and many other types of athletes over the years. As long as you adhere to your surgeon's advice following surgery (the recovery period), which does require refraining from physical exercise and strenuous activities, you'll soon be able to return to your routines without harm to you or your implants. For some, it can take as many as 8-12 weeks for return to all of your normal activities.
"It will be costly to replace all my clothes" Again, much will depend on how much you increase your bust line. Small changes of 1-2 cup sizes often do not require a complete wardrobe change. And, you'll find that you'll look forward to going to the store to purchase your new bras and wardrobe items!
Why would a plastic surgeon discuss why you might
not want to get breast augmentation? There are pros and cons to everything in life. We know that women don't usually take breast augmentation surgery lightly, and in fact have probably been thinking about it for many years. Weighing your options is key to your ultimate happiness with breast augmentation. Once you take a close look at each of your objections, trying to think of both the negative and the positive to each, you may find it easier to make decisions you're happy with.
