Breast size is increasing

Breast augmentation remains extremely popular.  In 2011, more than 316,000 women underwent breast enlargement.

 I recently read a brief synopsis of a new book authored by Florence Williams, entitled “Breasts: A Natural and Unnatural History.”

The reason behind the book was because Mrs. Williams was involved in a breast milk research study while nursing her daughter.  This led to extensive research and led to her book.  She found out her milk contained toxic materials.  She knew there was much to be learned.

In my practice as a plastic surgeon in Fort Myers, FL, when I do a breast aug, I would rather err on the side of a little too big because patients adjust up easier than they adjust down.  For years, people have been obsessed with breasts and their size.  What was revealing to me was what type of materials were used in breast implants in the early 1900’s.  Such materials as glass balls, ivory wood chips, peanut oil, paraffin and ox cartilage to name a few.

Today, life is much simpler - silicone or saline - and my choice is silicone. A patient must be at least 22 years old to get silicone, unless it is for reconstruction, i.e. a congenital defect.  

Since silicone is back on the market, the popularity of breast augmentation has risen dramatically.