IS THERE A MAXIMUM AGE FOR BREAST AUGMENTATION?

More and more women around the world are deciding to have breast augmentation. Many women see this method as a way to achieve these results: to increase their seductive power, to obtain a more attractive cleavage and to have a better self-esteem. However, when we decide to undergo this procedure, several questions, with good reason, cross our minds. One of the most recurrent questions from older patients concerns the age limit.Is there a specific age limit for breast augmentation?.Find out all the answers in this article.

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation, as the name suggests, is a cosmetic surgery that increases the volume of the breasts and increases the size of the cup. In concrete terms, this augmentation is achieved by placing breast implants. The implants can be placed behind or in front of the pectoral muscle.These implants are made of silicone gel and can last up to 10 years. After this time, the patient will have to change them, she can return to the clinic to have the procedure repeated. The implants are available in different shapes and volumes, the choice of the prostheses to be placed will be made before the operation in agreement with the surgeon and according to the patient’s wishes. It is also possible to make different incisions, the technique chosen will depend on the patient’s case and the surgeon’s habits. Breast augmentation can be performed for purely aesthetic reasons, but it can also be performed as a repair procedure, for example to correct breast asymmetry.

Is there a specific age that is considered perfect for getting breast implants?

Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons revealed that breast augmentation was notably favored among women aged between 30 and 39 and 40 to 54. Interestingly, women above the age of 55 were less likely to opt for this surgery, just as their counterparts under the age of 29. Several factors influence the decision to undergo breast augmentation within the 30 to 55 age range. By this stage, many women have established their lives, potentially completed their family planning, and ceased breastfeeding – experiences that can alter breast size and shape significantly. Some women consciously decide not to have children, making them candidates for the procedure. Additionally, women in this age bracket are typically physically mature and developed, yet often haven’t encountered the health issues common among older individuals. Financial preparedness also plays a role, as many women in this age group are better equipped to handle the costs associated with cosmetic surgeries.

What are the age recommendations based on implant type?

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and are generally considered safe for individuals aged 18 and above. Most countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada, adhere to this age recommendation. At 18, individuals are legally considered adults and can make their decisions regarding cosmetic surgery.  In the United States, the FDA approves silicone implants for individuals aged 22 and above for breast augmentation. This recommendation is grounded in extensive research and ensures that individuals opting for silicone implants are physically and emotionally mature to handle the procedure. These guidelines aim to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals undergoing breast augmentation surgeries, allowing them to make informed choices about their bodies.

What are the age recommendations based on the reason for surgery?

Breast implants come in two primary types: Saline implants and Silicone implants. The age recommendations vary depending on the purpose of the surgery. For cosmetic surgery purposes, the FDA approves saline implants for women over the age of 18. On the other hand, silicone implants, favored for their natural feel, are limited to women over the age of 22. However, it’s important to note that these recommendations are not legal restrictions; rather, they reflect the FDA’s preference for a certain level of maturity and physical development. In cases of reconstructive breast surgery, involving procedures after mastectomy or severe breast damage, there are no specific age limitations. Both saline implants and silicone implants are approved for women of any age seeking reconstructive procedures. This emphasizes the importance of individual cases and the necessity for emotional maturity when considering such surgeries.

What are the age recommendations based on your emotional maturity?

Regardless of the patient’s age, she must be fully aware of the changes her body will undergo and the impact of such a procedure. Whether it is a simple desire to change her figure or a way to remedy a complex, the patient must be completely honest with herself and with the surgeon who will perform the operation. This awareness will greatly help the patient to better apprehend such an important procedure and to be more in tune with her new breasts following the operation. In the end, the patient should do this procedure for herself and not under the pressure of society’s judgment. After the meeting with the surgeon, the patient can decide whether or not she wants to undergo the surgery.

Breast implants: before or after pregnancy?

If the patient wishes to have a breast augmentation to beautify the breasts, then generally the surgeon will recommend scheduling the operation for after pregnancy. This is because whether the breasts are natural or reconstructed, pregnancy will have an impact on their appearance. During pregnancy, the change in the appearance of the breasts will be different from one woman to another: in some patients, the breasts will increase in volume, and in others, the breasts may sag. Following the pregnancy, and depending on the evolution of the appearance of the breasts, it will be possible to carry out a breast augmentation that will give satisfactory results. As far as breastfeeding is concerned, this is generally possible even if there are prostheses already in place. However, following certain operations, the milk ducts (which are used to transmit milk) may be cut, and the patient will then have difficulty breastfeeding her baby. If you are considering breast augmentation and plan to have children in the future, do not hesitate to talk to your surgeon. He or she will suggest the best solutions for your situation.