Silicone breast implants require a lifetime of maintenance.
The cosmetic surgery industry has made it easier that ever to swipe a drink from the Fountain of Youth. But one such beautifying technique -- breast augmentation with silicone -- poses a hefty price, both with the initial procedure costs and subsequent maintenance and screening. To have a "boob job" is not a one-shot deal. No such surgery is permanent, and potential side effects can make the price of beauty pretty ugly on the pocketbook.
Interference in Cancer Screening
Silicone implants can interfere with mammograms.
Research to date has not proven any link to silicone implants and breast cancer. However, there is some concern that the fluid-filled sacks can impede the interpretation of mammograms and impact cancer detection and treatment. Less serious but real risk potential, the mammogram itself poses a risk of silicon rupture, which will require additional surgeries to repair.
Change in Breast Tissue
Although rare, some women report skin changes and hardening of the breasts.
Rarely, silicon implants can cause rippling and puckering of the skin around the breasts, which may warrant future cosmetic surgery. Some women report capsular contracture, the medical definition for hardening of the breasts. It is caused by the formation of fibrous scar tissue around the silicon as the immune system activates to fight a perceived foreign entity. Not all women will experience capsular contracture, but it is one of the most common complaints from those who have undergone the cosmetic procedure.
Ongoing Maintainence
Doctors recommend patients get MRIs three years after surgery to detect ruptures.
The average shelf-life of silicon breast implants is about ten years -- give or take. That's because changes in skin elasticity, breast tissue and the risk of rupture warrant additional surgeries to maintain the aesthetic look and feel. Unlike the saline (salt water) implant alternative, leaky silicone ruptures float around in the body and are not easily detectable. Therefore, doctors recommend periodic MRIs, which are the only effective tests to detect the substance in the body, but may not be covered by traditional health insurance.
Difficulty with Breastfeeding
Silicone implants may make it difficult or even impossible to for mothers to breastfeed their babies. Clogging of the milk ducts upon childbirth is often painful and silicone can compound the problem. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medications to dry up milk production to avoid discomfort. Woman can avoid potential breastfeeding complications by delaying breast augmentation surgery until childbearing is completed.
Tags: additional surgeries, breast augmentation, breast implants, capsular contracture, cosmetic surgery
