Dr. James Barber - Cosmetic Surgery Blog

The number of women seeking breast augmentation has increased year after year, and the age of those interested seems to be getting younger. Getting a procedure of this nature should be a carefully thought out decision. Seeking advice from a qualified cosmetic surgeon, such as Dr. Barber, is one of the first things you should do. Before you decide to get breast implants, there are a couple questions you might want to think about:

Am I relying on this surgery to change my life?
Breast augmentation may provide certain beneficial changes that include an increase in self-esteem associated with body image. However, good body image does not automatically immunize against nor does it "cure" someone suffering from an emotional illness, such as depression. If you have been diagnosed with depression or any other psychological illness, take special care before making a decision to have breast implants.

Can I get breast implants if I'm under 18?
There are two major reasons why very young women should wait before deciding on breast augmentation:

1. The human body does not complete development at any certain, set age. One 19-year-old had implants, for instance, only to discover her natural breasts continued to grow.
2. Teenagers do not truly realize the difference breast augmentation will make in their bodies, nor do they fully understand the risks involved in this (or any other) type of surgery.

For the majority of women seeking breast implants, the rewards far outweigh the risks. And making these decisions in a healthy emotional state and with the maturity to make an intelligent, informed decision is part of this process. Many women report satisfaction with their breast implants, including renewed attraction from their partners, a much better fit in clothing and better proportions for their bodies.

For questions about whether or not you would make a good breast augmentation candidate, and are in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, please contact Dr. James Barber to set up an initial consultation.