There may be an incredibly compelling reason why breast augmentation is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the United States: women who have the procedure done report experiencing a higher quality of life post-surgery. In fact, women who have undergone breast augmentation cite significant improvements in their sexual and psychosocial well-being and describe increased satisfaction with their breasts, according to a study published in the April issue of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ official medical journal, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
A surgical procedure that involves placing silicone or saline implants in the breast to create a fuller, firmer bust, breast augmentation can be used to balance breast size with overall body type, to correct for breast mass lost through injury, surgery or pregnancy, or simply to create the breast size and shape that a patient desires. When performed by an expert plastic surgeon, breast augmentation leads to beautifully shaped, natural feeling breasts that are one or more cup sizes larger.
More than 600 women participated in the study assessing quality of life issues by completing the BREAST-Q survey questionnaires before surgery, six weeks after surgery and then again at six months post-surgery. When asked to rate their satisfaction with their breasts, patients’ scores tripled after augmentation. Both sexual and psychosocial scores saw similar jumps. Researchers found that the overall degree of improvement breast augmentation patients described regarding their quality of life was comparable to that reported by people after major orthopedic operations like hip or knee replacements.
Respected Seattle-area plastic surgeon Dr. Shahram Salemy is not surprised by the study’s findings; he sees the same results among his own patients. “Breast augmentation isn’t just about making the breasts larger. It is about meeting patient goals and creating a sense of physical balance. It’s clear after the work we’ve done with our patients in our Washington offices that after surgery, patients are more comfortable with their bodies. They look good and feel good, which translates into an increased confidence that is evident in both their personal and professional lives.”
A multi-award-winning, ABMS board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Salemy serves as one of the elite clinical instructors for the Department of Surgery’s Division of Plastic Surgery at the University of Washington, assisting in training tomorrow’s plastic surgeons. Guided by his belief that every single patient deserves a positive plastic surgery experience, he creates personalized treatment plans for the patients who visit his Seattle plastic surgery office and his Richland, Washington plastic surgery office.
Is breast augmentation right for you? Schedule a personalized Breast Augmentation Consultation by calling (206) 467-1101 or emailing our Seattle office.
