Does having scoliosis affect getting a Breast Augmentation?

Question

Does having scoliosis (about 33deg curve) affect getting a breast augmentation?

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

It depends the degree of scoliosis. The curvature in the spine often effects the shape and projection of the ribs behind the breasts. The ribs either directly (submuscular) or indirectly (subglandular) support the breast implant. So, if a person's ribs project more (stick out more) on one side than the other, the breast implant will also. Frequently, the implant magnifies the difference in rib projection, which can make even subtle differences more obvious after surgery. 
Severe scoliosis can raise safety concerns for surgery of any kind if lung development or function is effected by the shape of the spine or ribcage. Obtaining surgical clearance from subspecialists may be necessary depending on the severity of scoliosis.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Generally, there is no reason not to have breast augmentation. However, position and size of the breasts may be different, asymmetric, due scoliosis. Although this can be tolerated in small breast, this asymmetry may be more visible after augmentation. If so, you should discuss this aspect of breast surgery result with your surgeon before surgery. Good luck.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person evaluation with a plastic surgeon to be measured and discuss your goals. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Mildly Sagging Breasts: If your breasts are mildly droopy, a saline or silicone gel implant placed behind the pectoral muscle might help create the illusion of perkiness. That’s because as the implant fills out the top of the breast, it also fills out the bottom, making it look as if the nipple has moved higher. It hasn’t. You can always get a lift later if you feel you are not perky enough when fully settled and healed. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If you have scoliosis the breasts may be asymmetrical already and it could be a challenge to work with that asymmetry. Getting perfect symmetry is difficult if there is preexisting asymmetry

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear lynndris,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Does having scoliosis affect getting a Breast Augmentation?

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Answer: Breast surgery

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Does having scoliosis affect getting a Breast Augmentation?

Answers (7)

Answer: Breast surgery

Answer: Breast surgery

Answer: BA candidate

Answer: BA candidate

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.