Well, we are here to answer just that.
Breast Augmentation Popularity and Satisfaction
For starters, breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, with over 300,000 surgeries performed each year. According to a survey conducted by Real Patient Ratings, over 84 percent of patients give their breast augmentation five stars, with only three percent giving the procedure a three-star rating or below. Chances are breast augmentation wouldn’t be so popular or highly rated if there was a serious, immediate medical concern.
FDA Approval of Silicone Implants
If during your research you’ve discovered that silicone breast implants were only FDA approved in 2006, you might be wondering why it took so long for them to gain approval. The fact is, when silicone implants were first introduced in the 70s and 80s, people feared that there would be adverse effects if silicone implants leaked into the body. Throughout the 90s, studies were conducted to see if silicone implants had a connection to autoimmune disorders. In 1996, it was determined that there was no significant link. The FDA gave approval to Allergan and Mentor Corporation for their silicone implants in 2006.
No Links to Breast Cancer
Studies have been performed over the years trying to determine if there is a relationship between having breast implants and developing breast cancer. There has yet to be a significant study linking breast implants to cancer risks. Women with breast implants are no more likely to develop breast cancer than women without.
Getting Checked for Breast Cancer
Personal risk factors can increase your chances of developing breast cancer. Age, genetics, and ethnicity all play a significant role in your risk for breast cancer. If your doctor has determined that you may be at an increased risk for breast cancer, it is important you undergo routine screenings. Mammograms are still effective for women with breast implants, just inform your technician.
Maintain Contact With Your Surgeon
It is important that you go to all of your follow-up appointments after your breast augmentation. This ensures that your breasts are healing properly and that you aren’t developing an infection. If you follow your post-op instructions correctly, you shouldn’t need to see your surgeon for about 10 years, which is when an implant replacement evaluation is recommended.
If you have any questions about breast implant safety or want more information about the breast augmentation process, schedule a consultation with Dr. Andreasen today. You can call our office at 909-291-4900 or contact us online.
