MSN article on breast implants over 40

Did anyone see the article on MSN.com yesterday on the growing number of women in their 40s getting implants?  They were considering it "reconstruction" rather than augmentation.

When I read that, I had a "yes" like that is how I feel.  I recently have lost roughly 20 pounds (small cheer) but it has come at the expense of my breasts.  I would actually consider implants at this point (I'm 37) although I haven't researched it fully.

Side note:  I find it somewhat interesting that I could spend the same amount of money on braces for my teeth but not expect the same judgment and/or condemnation for making that cosmetic change.  Now, granted, it isn't going under the knife but the argument that I should "like myself the way I am" is less used in some cases than in others.  Why would I be more vain for fixing my breasts than fixing my teeth?

My husband's main issue is that with any surgery you are taking a risk.  To be personal, I am not even filling an 'A' anymore and was once, in fond memories, a full 'B'.  If I did much more than that, my teenage daughter would never be seen with me :). 

Does anyone have experience with this that they would be brave enough to share (or email me about)?   

 

 

My mom got them at the age of 48.  She was an A and now she's a large B.  My only concern for her is that her doctor suggested she use Silicone implants because of her age (?)...so, I worry, but she's glad she had it done and she said worth every penny. She was active again in less than a week, only needed assistance reaching for high items in a cabinet.  she was cooking and doing "normal" house things the next day if I remember correctly.

She's got a wickid immune system, not sure if that has anything to do with it, or maybe she just has a high threshold for pain.... 

My mom had reconstructive surgery after a masectomy when she was around 45 years old. She ended up having the implant removed, because she came down with some weird immune reaction. These were saline implants, so it wasn't a leaking silicone issue: it was something about the implant material itself.

So no, I would never do this, not after seeing what my mom went through, going through surgery twice.

Also I'd hold off, after weight loss, it seems to me that breasts bounce back easier than some other areas (like the tummy). That's been my experience, at least.

The only thing that's ever really tempted me is a tummy tuck. But I doubt I'd do that either.

My mom had a double masectomy in her 30's and then reconstructive surgery with silicone inplants. She had a lot of immune problems because they leaked. She had them replaced with saline inplants when they also broke lose and 'wandered' (one went around to the back...). She recently was diagnosed with breast cancer that is now in her bones. Apparently the inplants hid the cancer making it difficult to diagnose. Also, no one said that you still needed mammos, even when you've had the lymph nodes removed.

Anyhow, in our family we are pessimistic about getting breast cancer and ask what we will do when our time comes, prothesis or reconstruction.

I sympathize about them not looking like they once did. (Remember the cartoons with the tube sock breasts?) I'm no longer sure if I would do the reconstruction.

Now on the other hand, the leftover baby carrier (as my DH calls it)...

Those are all good points.  My health is not worth it so those would be factors to research.  My husband is very practical and he would have to be strongly guaranteed that the risks are low before he would sign off on anything like this. 

As for the previous post, I know these little darlings are not going to "bounce back".  I don't think there is any bounce left in them.  They did their job (3 healthy children) but I am just 37 which, in this day and age is YOUNG.  I am not washed up in the least! 

I may make myself a deal based on maintaining this weight loss that after a certain amount of time at this weight, I'll talk to some doctors.  I see my regular doctor in April.  I worked hard for this body and it seems anti-climatic that my breasts are basically non-existant in clothing.   

Well, I'm nearing 60, and I would get the implants, or at least a lift, if I could afford it! When I reach goal, I will have gone from a D to a very saggy , can-only-be-if majorly-uplifted barely B. Coming from a generation when Boobs equaled sexuality, I feel rather unsexy, even for my age, without that full bossom!

I guess I could publicly post about this (deep breath) :) but I have had this surgery.  I have not had children and I am 26.  It was 100% a personal decision and 100% cosmetic.  I had no medical reason for the procedure.  I basically wanted bigger breasts. :) Vain, sure some would say.  It's not about them though right?

BUT this isn't an overnight sort of decision (or shouldn't be) for anyone.  Definitely weigh the pros and cons.  Due your due dilligence to research everything!  Risks, doctors, references, etc.  Discuss it with your husband more.  A great idea would be to go to a couple of consultations (bring hubby along).  Ask TONS of questions.  You will learn alot and be able to better make an informed decision.  Do not do anything you don't feel comfortable with and don't rush a decision (on the surgery or the doctor).

As for my personal experience - I researched the procedure and surgeons for over a year.  [[Be sure the surgeon is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.  Be sure the facility is accredited by AAASF.]]  Had the procedure done 11/30/06. Went from an avg B to a largeC/smallD.  I did not have any complications and have not had any issues since.  ((the b/f was worried/hesitant b/c of the risk so I understand where your hubby is coming from)) In fact, I'd make the same decision again.  I love them. :) The first few days were the worst but I was up and moving the second day.  I was doing 'normal' things within the first week.  You shouldn't lift more than 15 lbs in the first month and it takes about 3 months to fully heal and to look how you should.  *note- there will be strange changes in the first month or so but they are normal.  I feel now as though they are part of me, not something added so that's nice.  I can lay/sleep on them.  I work out normally.  I don't do anything differently.  Shirts fit fantastic.  I recommend it but only if it's for YOU and only if you make an informed decision. 

I will also say that over 1/2 of the before/afters and patients in general at the place I went were in their 30s/40s.  Many were mothers who lost breast mass after breast feeding or weight loss.  Hope this helps.  Feel free to message me privately if you have questions or want to chat. :)

Thank you for your honesty and openness.  I did some research today on this and looked up websites for the surgeons in my area certified by the boards you discussed.  I think I'll call for a consultation (my husband will want to come too).  Who knows far out they are booking.  I'm not locked in to anything. 

I'm glad you said that you can sleep on them because I sleep on my tummy and was worried about that :)!