Special Considerations for Breast Augmentation in Older Patients
The vast majority of women who have breast augmentation surgery do so from ages 20-40, but there’s been a recent trend among older women who choose to have the procedure done too. In fact, according to a report done by ABC News, patients over the age of 65 now account for just under 10% of all breast augmentation surgeries. And this is part of a broader trend too, with the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reporting nearly 85,000 cosmetic procedures performed in 2010 for patients over the age of 65.
There is no age limit when it comes to feeling good about yourself and loving the way you look in your own skin. This, combined with factors such as better financial stability, more free time for surgery and recovery, and being past the age when your family is growing are all excellent reasons to consider a cosmetic procedure such as a breast augmentation when you’re older. In this post, we’ll talk about some of the special considerations you might think about if you’re considering a breast augmentation over 40.
What Implant Size Best Fits Your Lifestyle?
It’s important to consider where you are and where you plan on going with your life before you land on your ideal breast implant size. If you’re more active and over 55, for example, you might consider choosing an implant that won’t place too much strain on your back and shoulders. Alternatively, if you’re retired, want a significant increase in breast volume, and don’t plan on doing much except for sitting in the sun with your toes in the sand, larger implants may be just as safe and more in tune with your lifestyle. Feel free to discuss all your implant options when you have your breast augmentation consultation.
Make Sure You Check in With Your Primary Care Physician Before Surgery
No matter what age you are, it’s good to check in with your primary care physician to make sure you’re a healthy candidate for cosmetic surgery. This is especially important if you’re older than 40, though, because there is an increasing number of age-related risk factors, such as high blood pressure, that come into play. You should note that many well-managed chronic diseases, including high blood pressure, do not necessarily disqualify you for cosmetic surgery.
Breast Implant Placement Can Interfere with Mammogram Imaging
Starting at the age of 40, the American Cancer Society recommends women consider regular mammograms. From age 44-54, they recommend a mammogram every year, and every other year for women who are over the age of 55. Subglandular placement (on top of the chest muscles) of breast implants may interfere with mammograms. In many cases, when this is a concern, your surgeon will recommend submuscular placement.
Your Surgeon May Also Recommend a Breast Lift with Your Augmentation
Breast implants don’t necessarily address all the concerns older patients have with the appearance of their breasts. Implants, for example, won’t correct sagging skin, perkiness, or breasts that have shifted their position. In some cases, you may also need a breast lift to help achieve your goals.
Having a Revision Surgery? Consider Some of the New Implant Materials
Many older breast augmentation patients are at the age where they may be having revision surgery. If you’re getting implants replaced, be sure to ask your plastic surgeon about newer implant materials such as textured implants and gummy bear implants. There’s even a newer technique for boosting breast volume called autologous fat transfer (or fat grafting) in which your own excessive fat cells from a donor site are used. These options can offer additional safety benefits, such as reducing the risk of capsular contracture and give you a more realistic feel.
Build a Custom Breast Augmentation Surgery and Recovery Plan for You
When it comes to breast augmentations and cosmetic surgery, every patient is unique. Their goals, their body, and their circumstances will all influence the best path to their beautiful new look. If you’d like to speak to Dr. Anthony Wilson and his team about your cosmetic surgery goals, please contact AW Plastic Surgery for a consultation. Dr. Wilson is a highly-skilled, Ivy League trained expert in breast augmentation for older patients.
Call our plastic surgery practice in Portsmouth, NH today to schedule your consultation. You can reach us at (603) 294-4526. You can also send us a message whenever it’s convenient through our contact us page.