Every year, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons releases a report giving the previous year’s statistics on cosmetic procedures. Breast Augmentation has been on top for several years, and 2013 was no different. Augmentations were up over 2012 and significantly higher than the other top 4 procedures which include rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, liposuction and face lift.
View the statistical report: 2013 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report.
Read the ASPS press release: American Society of Plastic Surgeons Reports 15.1 Million Cosmetic Procedures in 2013; Marks Fourth Consecutive Year of Growth.
Why is Augmentation So Popular?
There are many reasons for this, but the most important one is increased public acceptance and awareness. For better or for worse, breast augmentation has become a part of our culture due to television, movies, the internet and advertising. Current fashion trends in dresses, sweaters and bathing suits are tailored toward women with larger breasts. Many will say that this is negative peer pressure from these advertisers and, therefore, unhealthy for women to surgically enhance their bodies. Granted, there are risks associated with any elective surgery, but there are also significant benefits. According to a study published in the May, 2013 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 98% of women undergoing breast augmentation say that the results met or exceeded their expectations. The study considered many aspects of the results, including size, firmness, recovery and complications. With respect to psychological effects, 92% of women reported improved self-esteem and 64% reported an improved quality of life. Before surgery, 86% of women were self-conscious about their breasts while only 13% were self-conscious after surgery.
Read the news release from ASPS regarding the study : New Evidence on What Women Can Expect after Breast Augmentation Surgery
Safety
Medicine and technology have come a long way since the 1960’s when the first silicone implants were placed. Anesthesia and surgical techniques have evolved over the past 50 years and will continue to evolve and improve. Implants are better today than they were 10 years ago, whether they are saline or silicone. Surgical technique is better today and allows for shorter surgery time with a much easier recovery and earlier return to work and exercise. Nevertheless, women should not rush into any elective procedure, including breast augmentation. Make sure you choose a surgeon who is certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and works in an accredited facility. However, once you have decided on a qualified surgeon, you can feel very comfortable that you will be safe.
Affordable
There was a time when breast augmentation, like most cosmetic procedures, was so expensive that very few could afford it. It was mainly celebrities and the affluent who signed up. Now with new technology and more competition between implant manufacturers and physicians, breast augmentation is much more affordable. Breast enhancement is, by no means inexpensive, but with competitive pricing between physicians, stable implant pricing and patient financing through companies like Care Credit, augmentation is available to everyone.
Breast augmentation is not for everyone, but for those who are good candidates, it is a very safe, effective and affordable procedure. Dr. David Bauer and Dr. Zachary Young are both board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and we are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. We specialize in cosmetic breast procedures, so come in for a consultation and take advantage of our spring promotions.
