Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is frequently performed by Toronto plastic surgeon Dr. Lawrence Tong. Despite its popularity, there are still many myths surrounding breast augmentation. To help patients make an informed decision about this procedure, we have debunked some of the most common myths about breast augmentation.
Myth 1: Breast Implants Are Dangerous And Can Cause Cancer
One of the most common myths surrounding breast augmentation is that breast implants are dangerous. However, this is not true. The Canadian government has approved both saline and silicone breast implants as safe for use in cosmetic surgery.1 This is not to say that breast augmentation surgery is completely risk free; every surgical procedure has its associated potential risks and complications. In general though, breast augmentation is a very safe procedure with a low risk profile.
There is no increased risk of developing breast cancer with breast implants. However, there is an association with breast implants and a type of cancer of the immune system (BIA-ALCL). This rare form of cancer is not classified as breast cancer, it is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cancer of the immune system). In most cases, BIA-ALCL is found in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant. For patients who receive appropriate and timely treatment, the prognosis is very good.2 Additionally BIA-ALCL is almost exclusively associated with textured implants which Dr. Tong does not use.
Myth 2: Breast Implants Will Last A Lifetime
Another common myth about breast augmentation is that breast implants will last a lifetime. While breast implants are designed to be durable, they are not designed to last forever. Over time, the implants may wear out, leak, or rupture, requiring replacement surgery. On average, breast implants last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.3 Newer ‘gummy bear’ implants are thought to have an increased lifespan when compared to traditional silicone or saline implants, because they have a lower rate of rupture. Many plastic surgeons including Dr. Tong, use ‘gummy bear’ implants almost exclusively these days.
Myth 3: Breast Implants Always Look Fake
Many people believe that breast implants always look fake and unnatural. However, this is not the case. With advances in surgical techniques and implant materials, breast augmentation can produce natural-looking results that enhance the overall appearance of the breasts. Many factors affect the look of breast implants including the implant size, the amount of soft tissue and natural breast, the dimensions of the chest, and the plane of implant placement. The key is to work with a skilled and experienced surgeon who can customize the procedure to your specific needs.
Myth 4: Breast Augmentation Is Only For Women With Small Breasts
While breast augmentation is commonly used to enhance the appearance in women with naturally small breasts, it can also be used to improve the appearance of breasts that have lost volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging. Breast augmentation can also be used to correct asymmetry or other congenital breast deformities. Sometimes a breast lift (mastopexy) may be performed in conjunction with breast implants for optimal breast aesthetic enhancement.
Myth 5: Breast Augmentation Is A One-Size-Fits-All Procedure
Breast augmentation is a highly customizable procedure that can be tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient. There are a variety of implant types, sizes, shapes, and materials to choose from, as well as different incision and placement techniques. Since every patient is different, each case should be customised to a patient’s specific cosmetic and anatomical requirements. Some patients may also benefit from a breast lift, or wish to revise a previous breast augmentation procedure. When you consult with Dr. Tong, he will help you decide on the best treatment plan to help you meet your aesthetic goals.
Myth 6: Recovery From Breast Augmentation Is Long And Painful
Many people assume that recovery from breast augmentation is long and painful. While it is true that some discomfort and swelling are to be expected after surgery, the recovery period is typically relatively short. Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a week or two of their surgery, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.
Myth 7: Breast Implants Will Interfere With Breastfeeding
Another common myth about breast augmentation is that breast implants will negate the ability to breastfeed. In fact, many women with breast implants are able to breastfeed successfully.
Maximizing the ability to breast feed is accomplished by performing breast augmentation utilizing specific strategies:
- Placing breast implants under the muscle will allow the implant to be separated from the breast tissue, thus minimizing any disturbance to the milk producing glands.
- Using an incision in the breast fold (and not around the areola) will minimize the risk of injuring the milk ducts and nerves that aid in breastfeeding. . Not all women are able to breastfeed, regardless of whether they have implants, but with these strategies, women with breast implants will maximize the potential for nursing.
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In conclusion, breast augmentation is a safe and effective cosmetic surgery procedure that can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted. By debunking these common myths about breast augmentation, we hope to help you make an informed decision about this procedure. If you’re interested in breast augmentation, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tong at Yorkville Institute of Plastic Surgery in Toronto.
1 Health Canada. Breast implants: Overview. Available: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-medical-devices/breast-implants.html. Accessed April 24, 2023.
2 What Is BIA-ALCL? Available:
https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/breast-reconstruction/types/implant-reconstruction/illness/bia-alcl Accessed May 14, 2023.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Will your breast implants last a lifetime? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/will-your-breast-implants-last-a-lifetime. Accessed April 24, 2023..
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