Breast Surgery: When Is Silicone Really Necessary?
Many patients have questions about breast surgery: when it is indicated, at what age it can be performed, whether silicone implants are necessary, and which technique is most appropriate. In this article, we will clarify these issues and explain what you need to know to make safe decisions regarding breast surgery.
At what age can breast surgery be performed?
Breast surgery can usually be performed from around 15 years of age, when breast development is complete or nearly complete. In earlier cases, it is necessary to individually evaluate breast development and ensure that the procedure does not interfere with natural growth.
It is important that the patient is aware of the expected outcomes and that surgery is only recommended when there is sufficient physical and emotional maturity to understand the procedure and its results.
There are many breast surgery techniques
Contrary to what many people think, not all breast surgeries are the same. There are more than 60 different techniques that can be applied depending on the patient’s goals, anatomy, breast volume, and skin quality.
- Reduction mammoplasty: removes excess breast tissue, improves contour, and relieves issues such as back pain or posture problems.
- Augmentation mammoplasty: aims to increase breast volume, which may or may not involve silicone implants.
- Reconstructive mammoplasty: uses the patient’s own tissue or implants to restore the natural shape of the breast.
The ideal technique should be chosen by an experienced plastic surgeon who evaluates each case individually.
Silicone implants: always necessary?
A common question is whether every breast surgery requires a silicone implant. The answer is no.
- In reduction mammoplasty, silicone is rarely indicated. In these cases, the patient’s own tissue is used to reshape the breast, providing a natural and harmonious result.
- In augmentation mammoplasty, silicone implants are the most common method to increase volume, but they are not always mandatory, depending on the patient’s anatomy and desired outcome.
The decision to use implants should be shared between patient and surgeon, taking into account desired volume, breast shape, and overall health.
Recovery: what to expect post-surgery
Recovery after breast surgery is generally smooth, especially when medical guidelines are followed. Key recommendations include:
- Moderate arm movements during the first few weeks;
- Use of a surgical bra or compression garment as instructed;
- Avoiding intense physical effort until cleared by the surgeon.
Even with these precautions, patients are usually well-recovered within 30 days, able to:
- Sleep on their side;
- Drive;
- Resume most daily activities.
Following these instructions carefully leads to long-lasting results with minimal risk of complications.
Natural results: more important than just volume
One of the main goals of modern breast surgery is to create a natural result that is proportional to the patient’s body. In many cases, the patient’s own breast tissue is enough to reconstruct the breast harmoniously, without the need for implants.
Even when silicone is indicated, the correct surgical technique and proper implant selection are essential to avoid artificial or asymmetric results.
Conclusion: breast surgery is individualized
Not every breast surgery requires silicone implants, and the correct technique depends on the patient’s anatomy, age, and expectations. The most important step is a personalized evaluation by a qualified plastic surgeon, who can guide you on:
- Ideal age for the procedure;
- Most appropriate surgical technique;
- Whether silicone implants are necessary;
- Postoperative care.
By following these recommendations, it is possible to achieve natural, safe, and satisfying results with a smooth and fast recovery.
