What inspires people to opt for breast augmentation surgery? The catalog of reasons is surprisingly diverse. Let’s consider a few of the most common:
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To restore breast size and shape after pregnancy or breastfeeding.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2013, patients ages 30 to 39 received 105,877 of the breast augmentations performed in the United States – or one in every three procedures.
Women in this age range are typically in the middle or end of their childbearing years. The hormonal and structural changes the body endures during pregnancy and breastfeeding can radically change the size, shape, and feel of the breasts. Reduction in size and firmness is especially common. Since there are no exercises or creams that can restore fullness, many people opt for breast augmentation once they are finished having children.
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To correct asymmetry, genetic chest deformities, or the results of an accident or illness.
Breast augmentation is a form of reconstructive surgery; as such, it addresses a wide range of medical problems, including:
- Dramatic breast size variance;
- Congenital deformities in chest development;
- Injuries or damage caused by accidents or illnesses;
- Aesthetically unwanted changes caused by surgery to treat conditions like breast cancer.
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To improve confidence and comfort.
Conventional wisdom preaches that “beauty is found on the inside” and cautions that superficial changes to one’s appearance will lead (at best) to superficial levels of satisfaction. Obviously, there is no one key to self-confidence, and complex factors contribute to our psychology – ranging from early childhood experiences to hormonal/neurological issues to diet and nutrition.
That said, the science is surprisingly clear: studies show that the overwhelming majority of patients who opt for breast implant surgery report increased self-esteem, more confidence, and a sense of being more comfortable or “at home” in their bodies after recovery. These changes in self-perception and happiness endure over time, according to analysis.
Obviously, surgery is certainly not a substitute for other techniques (e.g. therapy, medication, mindfulness practice, etc.) to address confidence and self-esteem issues. But it really shouldn’t be that shocking to consider that making positive changes to your appearance can lead to positive downstream psychological effects. Our bodies and our minds are tightly intertwined.
Breast augmentation that addresses sagging or asymmetrical breasts can also increase physical comfort, too, and make life simpler in surprising ways. For instance, some women can now buy clothes “off the rack” without needing to pay for and wait for alterations.
Read more about our Breast Augmentation & Enhancement Surgery.
For a free, private consultation about your breast augmentation surgery options in Cleveland, please call our team at The Cosmetic Surgery Center at (216) 264-8100.
About Dr. Goldschmidt
Matthew Goldschmidt, MD, FACS is a cosmetic surgeon with an impressive list of academic and professional achievements. He is board certified by two surgical boards which include the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, for body, breast and facial surgery, as well as the Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.