Am I Too Old for Breast Augmentation?

Posted in Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants

Breast augmentation consistently ranks as one of the top plastic surgery procedures performed in the United States each year. According to annual statistics released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), the popular enhancement option ranked second in 2014, second in 2013, first in 2012, second in 2011, and first in 2010 among all cosmetic surgical procedures conducted in those respective years.

While the minimum age to receive saline and silicone breast implants is 18 and 22, respectively, there is technically no upper age limit for one’s eligibility to undergo breast augmentation. In fact, many women who are in their 40s, 50s, and above have successfully rejuvenated the look and feel of their breasts with implants. The main difference between younger and older women undergoing breast augmentation often pertains to their overall goals. For example, the majority of younger patients are interested in increasing the size of their breasts whereas most older patients seek to restore lost volume from breastfeeding and/or address issues such as breast ptosis (drooping). In these instances, a breast lift is often recommended and performed in conjunction with augmentation.

Rather than age, the key factor in determining candidacy for breast augmentation pertains to the patient’s overall health. Women who are in good overall health, who do not have an increased risk for surgical complications, who have realistic expectations for the outcome of their procedure, and who wish to feel more feminine or simply better about their appearance generally qualify as good candidates, no matter their age. Ultimately, an inclusive medical assessment performed in conjunction with a thorough evaluation of your cosmetic desires can be conducted by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to discern whether or not breast augmentation would be a safe and effective procedure for your needs and goals.

– Dan Mills, MD

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