Hi, I’m Dr. Glenn Lyle, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience helping patients in North Carolina achieve their aesthetic goals. One of the most common questions I get from women in their 50s and beyond is, “Am I too old for breast augmentation?”
Breast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries worldwide, with approximately two million women choosing implants each year. While the average age for breast augmentation is 35, reflecting the post-childbearing years for many, women over 50 are increasingly exploring this procedure. Currently, about 9% of breast augmentations are performed on women aged 50 and older.
Let me assure you-age is not a barrier to feeling confident and beautiful. While the majority of breast augmentations are performed on women under 50, I’ve seen a growing number of women in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s who are exploring this transformative procedure.
In this article, I’ll share why women over 50 are choosing breast augmentation, the key considerations for older patients, and what you can expect from the procedure. If you’ve been wondering whether this is the right time for you, read on and find out
Meet Dr. Glenn Lyle
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Glenn Lyle, a board-certified plastic surgeon, has been proudly serving the Raleigh, NC, community at Lyle Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center since 2002. With a deep passion for helping patients reclaim their confidence, Dr. Lyle specializes in transformative breast surgery and body contouring procedures. Whether addressing the effects of weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, his expert care and artistic approach empower individuals to look and feel their best. Dr. Lyle is dedicated to creating beautiful, natural results that reflect each patient’s personal journey and goals.
Why Do Women Over 50 Choose Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is about more than just appearance-it’s about confidence, self-expression, and feeling comfortable in your own skin. For women over 50, several factors often lead to this decision:
1. Changes Due to Aging
Over the years, it’s natural for breasts to lose volume, firmness, and shape. Many women notice a flatter upper chest or sagging that makes it difficult to find clothing or swimwear that fits well. You may feel your breasts no longer reflect how vibrant and youthful you feel on the inside.
2. Post-Childbirth and Post-Menopause Effects
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and hormonal changes during menopause can all contribute to a loss of breast volume and elasticity. By the time you’re in your 50s, these changes may be more pronounced, leading many women to seek breast augmentation as a way to restore their pre-baby or pre-menopause figure.
3. Financial Stability
For some women, their 50s are a time of financial freedom. With children grown and careers well-established, they now have the resources to invest in themselves and their appearance.
4. Life Changes
Life events such as divorce, widowhood, or simply a desire for a fresh start can inspire women to enhance their appearance. Many of my patients tell me they want to “look as young as they feel” or feel more confident when meeting new people.
Is Breast Augmentation Safe After 50?
Yes, breast augmentation can be a safe and effective procedure for women over 50, provided they are in good health. Here’s what I evaluate during a consultation to ensure the procedure is right for you:
1. Your Overall Health
Your health is the top priority. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders may affect your candidacy for surgery. I work closely with your primary care physician or specialists to ensure you’re cleared for surgery.
2. Breast Health
If you have a history of breast cancer, abnormal mammograms, or previous treatments like radiation or lumpectomy, these factors will influence the surgical approach. While implants don’t interfere significantly with mammograms, special imaging techniques are needed to visualize breast tissue.
3. Expectations and Goals
It’s important to understand what breast augmentation can and cannot achieve. If your breasts have significant sagging (known as ptosis), a breast lift may be needed in addition to implants to achieve the best results.
Choosing the Right Implants and Techniques
When it comes to breast augmentation, there are several options to tailor the procedure to your unique anatomy and goals:
1. Implant Type: Silicone vs. Saline
Silicone Implants: These feel more natural and are often preferred, especially for women with thinner breast tissue.
Saline Implants: These allow for easier rupture detection and are slightly less expensive but may not feel as natural.
2. Implant Placement
Submuscular (Under the Muscle): This technique places the implant partially under the chest muscle, reducing interference with mammograms and lowering the risk of capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant).
Subglandular (Over the Muscle): This may be appropriate for women with more breast tissue or significant sagging, as it sometimes avoids the need for a breast lift.
3. Implant Size and Profile
During your consultation, we’ll discuss the size and shape of implants that will best suit your body type and goals. Whether you prefer a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic look, the choice is yours.
Am I too old for breast implants?
Age is just a number. As long as you’re in good health and have realistic expectations, breast augmentation can be a great option at any age.
Will implants interfere with mammograms?
Implants don’t prevent mammograms, but special imaging techniques (implant displacement views) are used to ensure all breast tissue is visualized. Ultrasound may be needed to evaluate implant integrity or add information to the mammogram. MRI may be recommended for complete implant evaluation.
How long do implants last?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. While newer implants are more durable, I recommend regular follow-ups and imaging to monitor their condition.
Can I combine a breast lift with implants?
Yes! For women with significant sagging, combining a breast lift with implants often provides the best results.
Real Patient Story - A New Chapter in Life: 71-year old Breast Augmentation
This 71-year-old woman had a very active lifestyle and worked out in a gym on a regular basis. She was very self-conscious about her appearance in her workout clothing and wished to have improvements in her chest. She felt younger than her age and wanted to look the part, so she underwent submuscular positioning of 345 cc Allergan moderate profile silicone gel implants and was very happy with her new physique and her appearance in tighter-fitting clothing. Despite being under the muscle, she had no problems resuming her vigorous workouts.
Further Reading
- Read more about Breast Augmentation in Raleigh, NC
- Read more about Breast Augmentation + Lift in Raleigh, NC
- Read more Glenn Lyle’s Blog Page on Understanding the Risks and Potential Complications of Plastic Surgery
