By B. Aviva Preminger, MD, MPH, FACS
Are you considering getting breast implants? Like all elective surgery, it’s a big decision and one that you should make thoughtfully. Here are some important mistakes to avoid making in this process.
Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation is essential. Many patients make the mistake of choosing a surgeon based on price, location, or social media hype rather than expertise and credentials. A qualified surgeon will prioritize safety, use advanced surgical techniques, and listen to your expectations, concerns, and goals.
Many patients focus on cup size rather than what best suits their body proportions, lifestyle, and long-term goals. We all know that sometimes different styles of bras result in the need for different sizing, and that a 34C is actually pretty much the same as a 32D bra size. Try not to focus on the letter, but rather on the aesthetic you want to communicate. A “C” cup usually says you want something in proportion to your frame, while a “D” or “DD” communicates a different look. Furthermore, choosing implants that are too large can lead to complications such as back pain, premature sagging, and an unnatural look. A thorough consultation, including 3D imaging and/or implant sizers, helps ensure a balanced, proportional outcome.
Implants can be placed above or below the pectoral muscle, and this decision significantly affects the final result. Patients who don’t fully understand the pros and cons of each option may be surprised by issues such as visible rippling, implant movement, or unnatural contouring. A skilled plastic surgeon will guide you based on your breast tissue, body type, and desired look.
Some women who want larger, fuller breasts actually need a breast lift (mastopexy) along with their augmentation. If you have sagging or significant volume loss, simply adding implants without a lift can add extra weight to an already compromised skin envelope and worsen drooping in the long term. A breast lift repositions the breast tissue and nipple, ensuring that implants enhance the shape beautifully rather than adding to sagging.
Recovery is a critical part of the breast augmentation process, yet many patients underestimate the downtime. Resuming activities too soon—especially exercising or lifting heavy objects—can lead to complications such as bleeding, implant displacement, poor scar healing, or prolonged swelling. Following post-op care instructions, including wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activity, and attending follow-ups, is key to a smooth recovery and long-term success.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, but there’s a common misconception that they must be replaced every 10 years. The truth is that implants don’t automatically need to be changed at the 10-year mark; rather, they should be monitored over time. The rupture rate begins to increase between 10 and 15 years, which is why routine follow-ups are important.
To ensure long-term success, I offer my patients a complementary annual follow-up consultation to assess their implants and ensure that everything continues to look and feel as it should. Regular monitoring helps catch any issues early and provides peace of mind.
Some patients assume they will wake up with perfect results immediately, but the healing process takes time. In the first few weeks, implants may sit higher on the chest and feel firm or swollen. It can take several months for implants to soften and settle into a natural position. Trusting the process will help you appreciate your final results.
One of the biggest mistakes patients make is not being open about their true goals during their consultation. Some women feel shy or hesitant about expressing what they really want, whether it’s a more natural look, more volume, or a particular shape. A great plastic surgeon will listen without judgment and guide you toward the best options. This is your body, and you should feel empowered to speak up about what makes you happy.
Breast augmentation is a personal choice, but it’s also a decision that can impact relationships. Some patients make the mistake of not discussing their plans with their partner, leading to misunderstandings or unmet expectations after surgery. On the flip side, others base their decision entirely on what their partner wants, rather than what they truly desire.
The best approach? Have an open conversation with your partner, but make sure your decision is ultimately about what makes you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
If you’re young and haven’t had children yet or if you’ve breastfed before and are concerned about breastfeeding again, it’s important to discuss this with your surgeon. Breast augmentation typically does not interfere with breastfeeding, and it is safe to breastfeed with implants in. However, certain surgical approaches may affect milk production. A skilled surgeon can choose an incision and implant placement that minimizes any potential impact on breastfeeding ability.
Breast augmentation isn’t just about aesthetics—it should also align with your lifestyle and physical activities. Women who participate in high-impact sports, weightlifting, or intense workouts need to carefully choose an implant size and placement that supports their lifestyle. Failing to take these factors into account can lead to discomfort or dissatisfaction down the line.
Breast augmentation can be a life-changing procedure when done correctly, but avoiding these common mistakes is key to a smooth experience and long-lasting results. By choosing a qualified surgeon, communicating openly about your goals, preparing for recovery, and committing to long-term follow-ups, you can enjoy results that enhance your confidence and complement your lifestyle for years to come.
At Preminger Plastic Surgery, we are committed to educating our patients and providing personalized care tailored to their unique needs. For those considering plastic surgery, we offer guidance every step of the way to help you achieve your aesthetic and wellness goals.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit premingermd.com or call 212-706-1900.
Dr. Aviva Preminger is an Ivy League-educated and trained plastic surgeon. She has earned respect and prestige in her field with her extensive credentials. She holds faculty appointments at Columbia University as well as several other fully accredited New York hospitals. Dr. Preminger has expertise in a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and has lectured and published extensively. She and her staff are committed to excellence. You can reach Dr. Preminger at 212-706-1900 or via her website at https://premingermd.com/contact/.
