Often when we elect for breast implant surgery, we only take the perspective of what the immediate results will be. Our concern is typically preoccupied with the here and now. We take the perspective from a short-term approach and we tend not to think beyond 5 years or even 10 years with breast implants, let alone a 15, 20, or 25+ years. And quite often all our discussions with the plastic surgeon mirrors that sentiment.
If you already have breast implants, think back to your consultation, pre-surgery. Did your surgeon focus mainly on the immediate perceived body image benefits?
How much time was actually spent discussing the risks, such as:
if you are even a good candidate for surgery
the shelf life of breast implants
what the breast implants are made of and what the chemical make up is
the need for MRIs and/or ultrasounds post-surgery every 1-2 years
potential complications and symptoms that may cause concern post-surgery, now commonly referred to as breast implant illness (BII)
what exercises you can and can't do
what sleeping positions are best
breastfeeding with breast implants may pose a risk to your child and there is a lack of research in this area and may continue to be for years to come
the understanding that your body will change over time as you age and even with implants your breasts may sag
the need for explant surgery or replacement surgery (typically every 8-10 years) as the implant will deteriorate regardless of complications or symptoms
the fact that when you remove your actual breast implants they are classified as a bio-hazard in many countries worldwide
The list goes on and on ...
Breast implants are not meant to be lifetime devices
According to Dr. Tommaso Addona, a plastic surgeon and president of the Long Island Plastic Surgical Group in New York, "Breast implants are not meant to be lifetime devices. They have a lifespan, and that might range from seven to 10-plus years, based on the implant and patient."
We know all plastic products have a limited lifespan. It is clearly evident that any type of plastic breaks down over time, and some faster than others given the conditions or type of environment. We only have to look at our oceans to see that the plastic is clearly responsible for killing much of our marine life. So what makes breast implants any different? Silicone is a hybrid between a synthetic rubber and a synthetic plastic polymer. And when it comes to breast implants, silicone or saline - they are both the same (saline has an outer silicone shell).
According to Life Without Plastic:
"Silicones are not completely inert or chemically unreactive and can release toxic chemicals."
"The European Union considers certain siloxanes to be endocrine disruptors."
"Silicone tubing commonly used for medical applications has been shown to leach several chemicals, including dioctyl phthalate."
"Silicone intravenous devices have been shown to leach silicone and cause local inflammation."
What does all this mean? When it comes to personal health we all need to educate ourselves the best that we can and ask questions so that we can make well-informed decisions.
All posts are intended strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough in-person consultation with a medical professional. If you have questions about your personal medical situation, please call your healthcare provider.
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