You’ve always dreamed of bigger breasts, but you’ve never made it happen. Now, you’re in your 50’s and you’re finally ready for breast augmentation – is it too late? Not at all! Call us today and schedule your breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Guevara.
Breast augmentation is one of the most requested plastic surgeries by women of all ages. However, many women wonder if it is possible or convenient to undergo this procedure after the age of 50. What are the risks and benefits? What type of implants are recommended? What care should be taken before and after the operation? In this article, we will answer these and other frequently asked questions about breast augmentation in women over 50.
Why do some women want to augment their breasts after the age of 50?
Breasts are an important part of female identity and self-esteem for many women. However, over time, breasts can undergo changes that affect their shape, size and firmness. Some of the factors that influence these changes are:
- Menopause: this stage is characterized by a decrease in the production of estrogen, the hormone that regulates the development and maintenance of the breasts. This can cause the breasts to lose volume and elasticity, and to sag or flatten.
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial function for both mother and baby, but it can also have an impact on the appearance of the breasts. During breastfeeding, the breasts fill with milk and enlarge, but afterward they may become empty and saggy.
- Weight loss or weight gain: Sudden or frequent weight changes can alter the proportion of fat and breast tissue in the breasts, which can cause them to shrink or expand. In addition, excess weight can put more pressure on the skin and ligaments that support the breasts, which can cause them to sag.
- Aging: The natural aging process involves a progressive loss of collagen and elastin, the proteins that give firmness and elasticity to the skin. This can cause the skin of the breasts to wrinkle and weaken, and the breasts to sag and wrinkle.
These changes can affect women’s confidence and satisfaction with their body image, and can lead to discomfort or embarrassment. For this reason, many women opt for breast augmentation as a way to improve the appearance and contour of their breasts, and to regain their self-esteem and femininity.
What are the risks of breast augmentation after age 50?
Breast augmentation is a safe and effective surgery, as long as it is performed by a certified plastic surgeon and in an accredited clinic. However, like any surgical intervention, it has some risks and complications that should be taken into account, especially in women over 50 years of age. Some of these risks are:
- Infection: this is a rare complication, but can occur if there is poor hygiene or poor wound care. Symptoms of infection include redness, warmth, pain, swelling, pus or fever. If an infection occurs, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible for appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or removal of the implant.
- Hematoma: is the accumulation of blood in the breast tissue, which may cause pain, swelling, bruising or color changes in the skin. The hematoma usually resorbs on its own, but in some cases may require surgery to drain it and prevent infection or deformity.
- Seroma: is the accumulation of fluid in the breast tissue, which may cause pain, swelling, heaviness or changes in the shape of the breast. Seroma usually reabsorbs on its own, but in some cases may require puncture or surgery to remove it and prevent infection or deformity.
- Capsular contracture: is the formation of a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, which can contract and compress the implant, causing pain, hardening, deformity or displacement of the breast. Capsular contracture can be treated with medication, massage or surgery to remove or replace the implant.
- Implant rupture or leakage: is the rupture or loss of implant content, which may be due to trauma, manufacturing defect, wear and tear or capsular contracture. The symptoms of a rupture or leakage of the implant are: change in size, shape or position of the breast, pain, swelling, lumps or irregularities in the breast or in the armpit. If a rupture or leakage of the implant is detected, a doctor should be consulted to evaluate the need to remove or replace the implant.
- Changes in sensation: is the alteration of sensation in the nipple or breast skin, which may manifest as a decrease, increase or loss of sensation. These changes are usually temporary and recover with time, but in some cases may be permanent.
- Interference with mammograms: implants can hinder the visualization of mammographic images, which may prevent early detection of possible breast anomalies or cancers. Therefore, it is recommended to inform the radiologist of the presence of implants and to perform special mammograms to obtain a better image of the mammary gland.
- Need for revisions or reoperations: Breast implants are not permanent devices, and may require revisions or reoperations throughout the patient’s life. Some of the reasons for a revision or reoperation are: the desire to change the size, shape or type of implant, the appearance of complications such as those mentioned above, natural aging of the breasts or the development of breast cancer.
These risks may increase or decrease depending on the individual characteristics of each patient, such as age, health status, skin type, breast anatomy, lifestyle, type of implant or surgical technique. Therefore, it is important to consult with the plastic surgeon before surgery, and to follow his or her indications and recommendations before and after the operation.
What are the benefits of breast augmentation after age 50?
Breast augmentation can have multiple benefits for women over 50, both physical and psychological. Some of these benefits are:
- Improve the appearance and contour of the breasts, giving them more volume, firmness and projection.
- Correct asymmetry or difference in size between the breasts, achieving greater harmony and symmetry.
- Restore breast shape and size after weight loss, breastfeeding or mastectomy.
- Increase confidence and satisfaction with body image, and improve self-esteem and femininity.
- Improve quality of life and emotional well-being, and enhance personal, social and sexual relationships.
These benefits may vary according to the expectations and desires of each patient, as well as according to the result and evolution of the surgery. Therefore, it is important to have a clear and honest communication with the plastic surgeon, and to express the motivations and goals sought with breast augmentation.
What type of implants are recommended for breast augmentation after age 50?
Breast implants are devices that are placed under the breast tissue or pectoral muscle, and serve to increase the size and shape of the breasts, and can be chosen according to the material, shape, size and profile desired. The most common types of implants are:
- Silicone implants are implants filled with a silicone gel, which has a consistency similar to natural breast tissue. Silicone implants offer a smoother, more natural look and feel, and have less risk of causing rippling or wrinkling of the skin. However, silicone implants are more expensive, require a larger incision, and can make it more difficult to detect a possible rupture or leakage of the implant.
- Saline implants are implants filled with a saline solution, which has a consistency similar to water. Saline implants are less expensive, require a smaller incision and allow the volume of the implant to be adjusted during surgery. In addition, in the event of a rupture or leakage of the implant, the saline solution is naturally absorbed by the body. However, saline implants have a less natural, firmer look and feel, and are more likely to cause rippling or wrinkling of the skin.
Breast implants can also be classified according to their shape, size and profile. The shape can be round or anatomical (teardrop or teardrop-shaped). The round shape is the most commonly used, as it offers a more symmetrical and uniform result, and has less risk of rotation or displacement. The anatomical shape is more suitable for women who are looking for a more natural and harmonious result, and who have sufficient breast tissue to cover the implant. The size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or grams (g), and should be chosen according to the proportions and preferences of each patient. The profile refers to the projection or height of the implant, and can be low, moderate, high or extra high. The profile should be chosen according to the width and depth of each patient’s chest.
The choice of the most appropriate type of implant for each woman depends on several factors, such as her age, health, skin type, breast anatomy, lifestyle, expectations and desires. Therefore, it is important to consult with the plastic surgeon, and be advised by his experience and professional judgment.
What care should be taken before and after breast augmentation after the age of 50?
Breast augmentation is a surgery that requires prior preparation and subsequent follow-up to ensure the success and safety of the procedure. Some of the care that should be taken before and after breast augmentation are:
- Before surgery:
- Perform a complete medical evaluation, including a medical history, physical examination, mammogram, blood test and pregnancy test.
- Inform the plastic surgeon of any allergies, medications, illnesses, surgeries or habits you may have, such as smoking, drinking alcohol or using drugs.
- Follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions regarding fasting, hygiene, clothing, transportation and companion on the day of surgery.
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulants, herbs or supplements that may interfere with clotting or healing.
- Prepare the home and personal items that will be needed during the postoperative period, such as comfortable clothing, pillows, ice, medications, bandages, sports bras, etc.
- After surgery:
- Follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions on rest, mobilization, nutrition, hydration, hygiene, wound care, use of bandages, drains, bras, massages, etc.
- Take the medications prescribed by the plastic surgeon, such as painkillers, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, etc.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, drugs, caffeine or spicy foods, which may affect healing or inflammation.
- Avoid exposure to sun, heat, cold, water or irritants that may damage the skin or the implant.
- Avoid intense physical exercise, sudden movements, efforts, loads or pressure on the chest, which may cause pain, bleeding, displacement or rupture of the implant.
- Keep follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon to check the condition and evolution of the breasts, and to remove stitches, drains or implants if necessary.
- Perform periodic mammograms as indicated by the plastic surgeon, to detect possible abnormalities or breast cancers.
This care may vary according to the type of implant, the surgical technique, the result and the recovery of each patient. For this reason, it is important to follow the personalized recommendations of the plastic surgeon, and to consult him or her about any doubt or problem that may arise.
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL BREAST AUGMENTATION AT AGE 50 AND OLDER
Women in their 50s will face some unique concerns as they prepare for breast augmentation. These tips will help ensure your success.
You will probably need a breast lift – Most women in their 50’s will need a breast lift. We can perform this at the same time as your breast augmentation.
Your date of birth is less important than your health – When it comes to plastic surgery, age is just a number. We are more concerned about your state of health. Many women in their 50’s are healthy enough for breast augmentation. Come to your consultation ready to discuss any medications you take and any health problems you may have.
How is your skin? skin health has often declined in the 1950s, making breast augmentation more difficult. Some patients heal more easily than they used to. Skin with poor elasticity may have difficulty supporting larger implants. We will examine your skin and make treatment recommendations that address any age-related changes in skin quality.
Don’t forget your mammograms – Even with implants, you still need mammograms. You may need a mammogram before surgery and should follow recommended breast cancer screening protocols after breast augmentation. Take care of your breast health.
Call and schedule your breast augmentation consultation today.
