Why are breast augmentation and breast lifts so much on the rise?

If you’re considering a breast augmentation (implants) or breast lift, new information released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) shows that you are not alone. Breast lifts are rapidly growing in popularity in the U.S. for the second year while breast augmentation remains the most popular cosmetic surgery; however, lifts are quickly catching up. Since 2000, breast lifts grew 70 percent from about 53,000 procedures in 2000 to 90,006 in 2013. By contrast, there were more than triple the amount of breast implants last year. There were 290,224 breast augmentation surgeries performed in 2013, up only 37 percent from 2000.

Breast lifts appeal to women because no foreign material is introduced into the body. Plastic surgeons use your own tissue to tighten the breast and bring it back to its perky position, reversing years of sagging. For a breast lift, a woman must have enough breast tissue left to make it viable; otherwise, a plastic surgeon can perform a breast augmentation. Some women are candidates for breast augmentation and breast lift surgery simultaneously. In these cases, surgeons agree that a little lift with an implant produces optimal results.

In the past, breast implants and lifts carried around an undeserved stigma. Women are surprised to learn that the majority of patients that choose to have a breast lift are women between the ages of 30 and 54 years old. These are women who want to recover their bodies from breast feeding and aging, and revitalize their appearance.

Women choose breast lift and augmentation procedures for many different reasons. Some women are interested in its restorative powers, but others just want a little boost in self-esteem. Many women love their breasts, or at least want to, and when they do, their body language instantly changes. Self-confidence is key in all aspects of life, be it romantic, social, or professional.

Many women who suffer from breast cancer opt for reconstructive surgery after mastectomies to restore a natural appearance, to feel like themselves again. However, women report that the uplifting effects of a breast enhancement extend beyond the strictly reconstructive procedures. The Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons published a study that suggested that breast augmentation can boost lasting happiness, as women reported increased self-esteem and joy after the surgery and also when polled again more than a year later. Looking good, looking the way you want – makes you feel good.

Whatever your reasons may be, discuss your wants and needs with Dr. Ghaderi, the cosmetic surgeon at St. Charles Plastic Surgery. The surgical consult will reveal which procedure is both best for your body and will give you the results you desire.