Breast augmentations have consistently been the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure over the last several years. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons' (ASPS) 2013 survey of its members found that ASPS member surgeons performed a total of 290,000 breast augmentation procedures that year. However, what may be surprising is that 8,234 of these procedures were performed on teens, making it the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure among those in the 13 to 19 age group.

While the vast majority of patients who come to see Dr. Pin regarding a breast augmentation procedure are adults, he has seen some teen patients. There are some particular concerns and considerations to keep in mind for teens who wish to undergo a breast augmentation procedure.

Breast Augmentation Surgical Procedure

There are two different types of breast implants - saline and silicone. Breast implant sizing is determined by both cubic centimeters (cc) and profile (the width of the implant compared to its height). Sizing will depend on the patient's goals, as well as their body frame (narrow versus wide chest) and the amount of breast tissue available to cover the implants.

In a breast augmentation procedure, Dr. Pin will place the implants either just in front of the chest muscle (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral muscles (subpectoral). The method for placement will depend upon the type of implant, the patient's body type, and the patient's preferences.

The most common incision approach is through the inframammary crease, which is the point where the lower breast joins the chest wall. Once Dr. Pin has created the incision, he will create a pocket, or capsule, in which the implants will sit. Saline implants are filled after placement, while silicone implants are already filled when placed.

Are Breast Implants Approved for Use in Teens?

In 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which governs the appropriate use of breast implants, approved the use of saline implants for women age 18 and above. Saline implants may be used for younger patients, but this would be considered an off label use. Although the FDA approved silicone implants for use in 2006, they are only approved for women age 22 and older.

Special Considerations

Although there may be valid reasons for teens to get breast implants, such as breast asymmetry (breasts of two different sizes) or reconstructive surgery following an injury, it is advisable for teens to wait as long as possible before undergoing a breast augmentation procedure. The breast tissue may still be growing, so the breasts may not have reached their final size and shape. Undergoing a breast augmentation procedure before the breast tissue has stopped growing may lead to problems such as capsular contracture, in which there is excess scar tissue that forms around the implant capsule, leading to breast hardening or malformation. Capsular contracture requires another surgical procedure to loosen or remove the excess scar tissue.

There is no doubt that teens may want to have a breast augmentation procedure in order to improve their appearance, boost their self-confidence, and fit in with their peers. However, it is best not to rush into the procedure until the breasts are done growing. Not only will there be a lower risk of complications, but the final outcome from the procedure will be improved.