10 Reasons Not To Get Breast Implants

by Andrea L. Algar

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.

Patient's Touching Surgical Story

It's rare when someone reveals themselves openly and honestly. Even more so when it's done publicly. Yet, this is exactly what one of Dr. Young's patients decided to do when she shared her story on an Internet site designed to give helpful information to those interested in breast implants.

"Anonymous" has been making news with her detailed account of why she decided to get breast implants at 49 years of age, and what her experiences were in selecting a surgeon, having the surgery, and her recovery experience. 

We're asked all the time, "What should I expect?", and it's a great question. Women wanting breast augmentation, whether they're 25 or 55 need answers that will help them make an informed decision that they will be happy with. It's something we strive to deliver to patients when they come to see Dr. Young for a consultation visit. Decisions go beyond selecting the right size, what recovery is like or when you can return to work, and some, in fact, wrestle with whether the procedure is "okay" to have at all.

I think "Anonymous" explains it well, and can serve as a good resource to anyone considering a breast augmentation or other cosmetic plastic surgery procedure. "Anonymous" gave an incredibly candid and frank account of her very personal and moving story of her decision to pursue Breast Augmentation following a battle with lymphoma. Her message is inspiring, and we thank her for sharing her heart-felt story with others.

Read the entire story of Dr. Young's patient at ImplantInfo.com.

ABOUT DR. YOUNG:
Dr. Robert N. Young is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon whose specialty is Breast Augmentation surgery. Dr. Young has been performing breast surgeries for over 30 years, and was a pioneer in utilizing minimally invasive techniques for his breast implant patients. He offers saline implants, adjustable implants, and silicone gel implants, in a variety of shapes and sizes designed to give options for women of all ages, body types, and personal preferences. Dr. Young performs surgeries in his own AAAASF certified outpatient surgery center located in San Antonio, Texas. He can be reached at his practice, Aesthetic Enhancement Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, which he founded in 1990.

Ultra High Breast Implants Now Available from Dr. Young!



Mentor Ultra High Profile
Silicone Breast Implants



We are pleased to announce the availability of the new Ultra High Profile Mentor Silicone breast implant. 

These new implants provide more projection and less width so you don't have to get as large an implant in order to achieve good projection. And, the implants are more full of silicone so they wrinkle less.

These implants are ideal for the smaller framed individuals who don't want the implant fullness laterally. Make a free consultation with Dr. Young and come by to see these new implants.

New 5th Generation Breast Implants Available in San Antonio

Now there is a new silicone breast implant from Sientra. This implant was recently approved by the FDA. The silicone inside of the implant is more cohesive than the current silicone gel implants on the market. This further decreases the risk of leakage of the silicone if it breaks. The implant also maintains its form better (either round or teardrop shaped) since the silicone is more solid. Another benefit is that the implant wrinkles less so for those patients who have wrinkling this new implant may be a solution.

We are pleased to offer these new implants in all sizes so that now you the patient have more options available to you when selecting your breast implants. All of these implants can be inserted through an armpit incision therefore avoiding any scarring on your breast.

Sientra Textured - Shaped Breast Implants

Call for a complimentary consult with Dr. Robert N. Young to see these implants and try on different sizes to determing the right look for you.

Are Adjustable Breast Implants A Good Option?

We receive a substantial number of calls about "adjustable breast implants".  Dr. Robert N. Young does do the adjustable breast implants and has always had them, but they may not be the best choice for everyone.  Many people think that this is a new type of implant that is somehow superior to traditional saline or silicone breast implants, but let's look at what they are, as well as the pros and cons of selecting them.

Adjustable breast implants originated in the mid 1980's by Becker, in conjunction with the breast implant manufacturer Mentor.  They were developed as a tissue expander used in breast reconstruction surgeries following mastectomy.  By the late 1980's, surgeons began using the Becker tissue expander in breast augmentation. It was thought of as a solution to achieve the ideal size. While the Becker expanders are still available, many no longer find it suitable due to cost and FDA restrictions.  A new implant called the Spectrum implant, also available by Mentor, is a permanent saline expander that uses the same Becker fill system.

According to Mentor, their "innovative line of SPECTRUM® Breast Implants makes the decision-making process easier because the size can be adjusted after surgery."  These implants allow the surgeon to adjust the size of your implant for up to six months after your procedure.

The ability to go back and change the size to be larger or smaller at a later time is seen as a plus for some. After inserting the implants, the surgeon leaves the filling tube between the stitches of the closed incision and within 3-6 months following the initial surgery (after the swelling has subsided), the surgeon is able to go back and change the size of the implants by taking saline out or putting more in. After the 6 months, the port is removed by the surgeon, and you can no longer change the size of the implants.

The actual Breast Augmentation surgery with adjustable implants is the same as when you use standard saline or silicone implants. The adjustable implants are more expensive, and with Dr. Young you must still undergo general anesthesia, so it can be a more expensive option. You are also limited in the amount of saline that you are able to put in or take out depending on the size of the implant that was chosen from the beginning. This is true whether you use the adjustable implants or standard saline breast implants. In using standard saline implants, we still have the option of adjusting the size up or down during the surgery, and adjustments can be made any time in the future through the fill port with standard implants. Unlike standard implants, with the "adjustable" implants, once the special filling tube is removed, you can never use it again to remove or add saline.

Be careful of media hype about adjustable implants, TUBA breast augmentation (transumbilical), and other promotions that are not always the best solution. Even though adjustable breast implants may be suitable for one woman, it is not the best answer for all. Read more about Breast Augmentation surgery.

Quality Breast Implants Made in USA

You may have noticed an article which has hit the web on France's scandal involving silicone breast implants.  The huffingtonpost.com reported that more than 30,000 women in Europe have received silicone implants which were produced by the French implant company Poly Implant Prosthesis (PIP) using industrial grade silicone rather than the medical grade silicone which is used here in the United States.

Medical grade silicone is medically sterilized and safe, and is used in a variety of medical applications. The majority of breast implants we use are Mentor's MemoryGel silicone cohesive gel-filled implants which are made in the United States. Because they are manufactured here, they must adhere to strict FDA guidelines.  In fact, the FDA has a consistent presence in Mentor's manufacturing facility. This, and Mentor's ongoing commitment to quality and safety, helps to ensure the safety of their breast implants for breast augmentation. 

Silicone breast implants continue to be the desired choice by most women around the country due to the more natural feel they offer. With the latest advances to cohesive gel implants, the risks from rupture have been minimized because the gelatin-like substance retains its shape and does not seep like a liquid. If you have questions or concerns about silicone implants, consult with your surgeon.

Heed Your Surgeon's Advice on Exercise

A bizarre article caught my eye this morning about a woman whose breast implant disappeared (the article actually described it as "her body 'swallowed' one of her implants") while she performed a Pilates stretching exercise.  Thinking that this sounded a little strange, I read the article, which appeared on the site TheBodyOdd on msnbc.com a couple of days ago, and was published online in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Apparently, the woman had several surgeries performed in the past. She was a breast cancer survivor and had a double mastectomy.  She also had a recent surgery to repair her heart's mitral valve, which involved separating some of the muscles that run between the ribs.  It is thought that when the woman attempted the Pilates move, called the Valsalva maneuver, the muscles in her chest contracted and may have pushed the implant through her ribs and into the space between the lungs.  It is felt that this area was fragile after her multiple surgeries, and that tissue was more easily torn.  It has been described as a "freak occurrence".  To view the article: http://bodyodd.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/14/9444713-womans-breast-implant-disappears-during-pilates.

The good news is that the woman is fine.  Surgeons found the implant and placed it back where it belongs.
But what does all this mean for the the typical women who is considering or already has breast implants? 

First, realize that when stories like this appear, they truly are rare and unusual occurrences. Second, while the article does not mention how long ago the woman had her breast implant surgery, it is a reminder to listen to and FOLLOW the advice you receive from your surgeon. Some complications can be avoided by following this advice. Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon will give you a time frame in which you are to avoid all exercise, then tell you how soon you can return to moderate exercise, and when you can return to your regular full workouts. The same can apply for your recovery time and when it is safe to return to work, lifting, housecleaning, and even sex. It is easy to return too early because you feel so good, but complications CAN occur if you push the limits too early, or if you "overdo" it.  If there is any doubt, please call your surgeon and ask.

Best Breast Augmentation Prices of the Year!

We wish you, your family, and friends the very best for the holidays, and extend our thanks for your support and continued interest in our Cosmetic Plastic Surgery and Medical Day Spa services.  In appreciation, we're closing 2011 with great prices on Breast Augmentation!

Breast Augmentation, usually $4700 for saline implants, $3950 now thru 12-30-11
Silicone implants usually $6000 are just $4950 thru 12-30-11

We've also got great specials on other surgery procedures performed by Dr. Robert N. Young, such as Tummy Tuck, Liposuction, Face Lift, Rhinoplasty and others.  Contact us at 210-496-BODY  to schedule a consultation with Dr. Young to see if you are a good candidate for these surgical procedures.  Special pricing is available only while openings are available.  Be sure to mention you read about Dr. Young's holiday specials so we can check availability.

Use Breast Implants From Reputable Manufacturers

Another story which appeared in the news today about breast implants sounds shocking on the surface. Claims are that large implants rupture at a much higher rate. The article also references "Jordan Syndrome", where women who get implants continually want to go bigger and bigger, often leading to the use of much oversized and potentially dangerous or disfiguring breast implants.  See article:  http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2011/12/02/bursting-breast-implants-trebles-in-four-years_n_1125828.html?ref=uk-lifestyle

While this condition may exist, and rupture and other problems can be more prevalent in larger implants, in the United States, the leading manufacturers of saline and silicone breast implants provide implants in sizes that have proven to be safe. These are strictly regulated.  In addition, Board Certified Plastic Surgeons who specialize in Breast Augmentations receive training in the appropriate use and sizing of breast implants.

The very large sizes mentioned in the article (G-Cup, FF-Cup etc) are no longer used in this country.  We also have very strict manufacturing standards which must be met in making breast implants, and there have been many advances over the years to ensure safety. In our experience, most women select implants from 350cc up to 800cc, which can increase your breast size from one to a few bra cup sizes.  Most women don't want to look abnormal, clownish or "over-the-top".  Keeping in proportion to the rest of your body will almost always give the most pleasing result.

We recommend that if you are considering breast implants, go to a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is trained and experienced in Breast Augmentation, and who uses quality saline or silicone gel implants.  He or she will be able to advise you on the risks associated with the type and size implant you desire, and will have your health, safety and goals in mind when helping with this important decision.

What is the Most Effective Liposuction Technique?

To try and answer this question, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) went to those who perform liposuction most - Board Certified Plastic Surgeons. The professional association's members were surveyed recently, and asked which methods they prefer most, and which ones they perceive as the safest.

The results are in! Overwhelmingly (at 51.4%), they preferred suction-assisted liposuction (or commonly called "traditional" liposuction, which includes tumescent liposuction). Second and third most preferred (23% and 20.9% respectively) were PAL (power-assisted liposuction) and UAL (ultrasound-assisted liposuction).
LAL or "laser-assisted liposuction" accounted for only 3.9% of plastic surgeons preferring this procedure. LAL methods go by many trendy names, but all are assisted by the use of a laser. Many manufacturers claim that the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, however, in our experience, most patients cannot tolerate liposuction under local anesthesia, especially for large areas. Patient discomfort can lead to the procedure being aborted earlier than desired.

Dr. Young prefers traditional tumescent liposuction techniques and the use of our own PAL "Tickle Lipo". It seems that Dr. Young is not alone in his perception of what works best!

Dr. Young has been performing liposuction in his private cosmetic surgery practice for over twenty years, and has this information to share: When considering your need for fat removal, realize that problem areas are identified by "area", such as abdomen, hips, thighs, or "love-handles" for men! Liposuction is also very effective for arms, neck or chin, and for reducing large breasts on men. When considering liposuction, consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, as they are the physicians who have received the highest levels of appropriate cosmetic surgery training.

In recent years, Dr. Young has perfected his technique of Brazilian Butt Lift, where fat is suctioned from one or more areas of the body is transferred into the buttocks, creating a shapely, voluptuously full figure that is so in fashion. Fat transfer techniques are also effectively used on the face, where loss of volume naturally occurs as we age. While fat transfer to the breast is once again being talked about as a viable alternative to traditional Breast Augmentation with either silicone or saline breast implants, the use of fat in the breasts often requires multiple procedures to end up with the volume you desire. This is because not all of the fat injected survives. Many prefer the tried-and-true methods that have been perfected in Breast Augmentation with advent of endoscopic technologies which allow for minimal incisions, good placement of implants, and beautiful, lasting outcomes. Liposuction is suitable for both men and women, and Dr. Young has seen a steady rise in the number of men who are electing to have liposuction surgery performed. In experienced, skilled hands, liposuction has evolved into an extremely safe and effective surgery for those wanting to reduce problem areas, sculpt the body, and even to add volume to areas lacking shape.


Robert N. Young, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with his own private Surgery Center in San Antonio, Texas. For more information on Dr. Young, visit his website at www.dryoungforever.com.

Keller Funnel Makes Breast Implant Insertion Easier and Less Painful

by Robert N. Young, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Having just returned from the cosmetic meeting in Miami, it was exciting to have a first-hand introduction of a new device that makes breast augmentation easier.

The Keller Funnel is a cone shaped device which aides in the placement of silicone breast implants, allowing for smaller incisions and less rubbing as the implant is being inserted. The funnel minimizes trauma to breast tissue, and puts less stress on the implant itself. Because the cone is lined with a special lubricant coating that when moistened makes the funnel extremely slippery, silicone implants (which are pre-filled at the desired size) can easily be inserted without the surgeon ever having to touch the implant. 

What is exciting is that in addition to the standard nipple incision long used for silicone implants, it now allows silicone implants to more easily be inserted through the armpit, which is exciting news for patients who are concerned about scarring on their breasts.  Many of my patients have avoided silicone implants because they did not want incision scars that would be visible on their breasts.  Patients who want no breast scarring often choose the transaxillary incision, which is made in the armpit and leaves a tiny scar that is virtually impossible to see once healed. The transaxillary procedure can be preformed with or without the help of an endoscope (a tube with a small surgical camera on the end). Up to now, saline implants were the primary choice for the armpit incision, because of the distance from the incision to the breast pocket. With the Keller Funnel, silicone implants can more easily be inserted through the armpit.

Even more exciting is that with use of the Keller Funnel, silicone breast implants can be placed  either below the muscle or subfascially.  The subfascial insertion allows for faster recovery times and much less pain, which is the primary post-op complaint.  I am able to achieve outstanding results with an armpit incision using the Keller Funnel and placing the implants below the fascia.  My patients now have even more reason to consider the choice of silicone breast implants with the introduction of this great new invention.

For more information about the Keller Funnel, visit the following links:
1) theplasticsurgerychannel.com
2) http://www.kellerfunnel.com/

I'm happy to discuss how this new procedure can benefit your Breast Augmentation surgery with me.  If you would like to contact me, please visit my website dr-youngforever.com  or  e-mail Dr. Young.

I'm afraid of anesthesia...is the "awake" method good for me?

by Robert N. Young, M.D.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

We've seen a new trend in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery...promotions of "Awake Breast Augmentations".  It is talked about as something new, but in actuality, surgeries performed under "local anesthesia", or "twilight anesthesia" have been around for many years.  Whether it is a good choice for patients is being hotly debated.

Because Breast Augmentation has become such a popular procedure, and is more readily talked about by society, some feel it has become somewhat frivolized.  It is easy to forget that this is still a major surgical procedure. While endoscopic (minimal incision) techniques have made the surgery less invasive and easier to recover from, the procedure is best done under general anesthesia with a Board Certified Anesthesiologist. "Twilight anesthesia" can be dangerous without an anesthesiologist present.

There is quite a bit of debate recently about practitioners who are advertising "awake" surgeries.  These are usually performed by physicians who are not Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, and may not even be Plastic Surgeons at all.  Sometimes they are Dermatologists, General Surgeons, or even Family Practitioners who elect to perform the surgery under local anesthesia because they do not have  privileges in a hospital or certified surgery center to perform those procedures. In my Surgery Center, all anesthesia is administered and monitored by Board Certified Anesthesiologists who are experienced in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery.  I feel this is best for my patients, and myself, as it allows me to concentrate on my area of expertise, which is the surgery itself.

My Surgery Center is fully certified by the AAAASF and meets strict standards to perform surgical procedures. Sure, the surgery costs a little more, but it is worth having the extra standards and safety factors. That's why doctors are credentialed and surgery centers are certified. If we didn't adhere to these standards we would be cheaper also. So when you get a fee quote that is cheaper because it is under local anesthesia in an office back room, be careful of what you are asking for.

Board certification by an ABMS member board provides assurance of a physician’s expertise in a particular specialty and/or subspecialty of practice. Professional organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) require that members be Board Certified within their specialty.

Some advertisements even go so far as to state that you'll be awake enough during your procedure to pick the size of your breast implants (this would only be possible with saline implants which are inserted and then filled to the desired size) during your surgical procedure itself!  If you have had sedation you are going to feel woozy and wobbly.  I don't think you would be coherent enough to make this selection during surgery!

We recommend that you ask questions that will ensure that you are well informed concerning the qualifications and experience of your surgeon and the types of anesthesia that you are offered.  Here are questions generally recommended:

• Are you Board Certified? 
• If so, what specialty board?
• Are you licensed to practice surgery in this state?
• How many breast augmentation surgeries do you perform each year?
• How many years have you performed breast implant procedures?
• Where is my procedure performed?  
• Is the surgical facility accredited?
  
• Who administers anesthesia during my surgery?
• Is the person who administers my anesthesia Board Certified in this specialty? 
  
• What are my options for anesthesia?
  

When you come in for a consultation visit with me, I will make recommendations based on my extensive experience as first a reconstructive and then cosmetic plastic surgeon. I invite you to ask questions regarding various surgical methods, anesthesia, recovery and any other questions you may have so that you can make an informed decision about your surgery.  You may contact my office at 210-496-BODY (496-2639) or e-mail me at nubody@dr-youngforever.com.

What's New in Breast Implants!

by Robert N. Young, MD, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

It's been over a year since their re-launch and it appears that the new silicone implants are taking off. The softness, safety and durability of the cohesive gel is attracting a lot of patients to select silicone despite their increased cost. For a little more money than the standard cohesive gel implant, there is also a silicone implant with a saline center (the Becker implant) that can be adjusted after the surgery via a valve under the armpit. When the patient is happy with one size, the valve is then removed.

Many people still feel more comfortable with the saline implants which have been the standard for the past 15 years. At Aesthetic Enhancement Cosmetic Surgery Center, I offer all options in terms of implant type, size and shape, as well as placement of the incision. We have our own fully accredited in-office surgery center to perform the surgery. Our patients find that this provides them with the privacy and convenience they desire, while also affording the best in patient care and safety.

With the advances made in quality and selection of Breast Implants, now truly is the best time for Breast Augmentation. The new style implants can create beautiful, natural looking breasts which will enhance your figure and bring a new sense of self-confidence and beauty to you. I'd be happy to see you in a consultation appointment to see if Breast Augmentation is right for you. Contact me by calling my office at 210-496-BODY (2639) or e-mail nubody@dr-youngforever.com.