Should I get breast implants if I have fibromyalgia, or should I just get a fat transfer to my breasts?

Question

I have heard it is a bad idea to get implants having fibromyalgia already. Am I taking a larger risk? I am scheduled to get TT and BA w/ a lift. Should I just get a fat transfer to my breast?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs or told us your bra size.  If you are concerned about implants and require a breast lift, the technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed are maintained.  At the same time or later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.  Implants are not lifetime devices and half are removed by 9.5 years.  Fat transfers are permanent and incorporated into the body.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

any association between implants and fibromyalgia is unknown,  but based on the large number of women who develop these symptoms after implants cannot be ignored.  Is it real?  We simply don’t know.  The use of fat to enlarge the breasts has been around a while now and I am unimpressed with the results so I have a hard time recommending it.  You may be more comfortable using saline implants if you get implants at all.

Maria M. LoTempio, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are limited with the fat grafting option. These include only increasing about one cup size and the predictability of the fat surviving may be difficult. Some patients experience fat necrosis- which are hard nodules which will ultimately need to be removed if causing problems. However if the procedure works and you only want one cup larger it is a good option to try first.  An implant is instant result - any size you choose.  There are many women with fibromyalgia who have implants without problems. I would try to find a forum for you to ask more specific questions. Best of luck.

Marcus Davis, MBBS, MRM, FRCSEd (Plast) · Answer

A great question and one that nobody can accurately answer!
Whilst there is no proven scientific evidence to support any worsening of symptoms with breast implants, there is no doubting that some people clearly experience a deterioration in their general health after having had implants inserted, often relieved by removal of the implants. Having saline filled implants does not logically protect against this phenomenon as the implant shell is still made of Silicone and there have been plenty of anecdotal reports of people with line filled implants suffering.
With regards to fat grafting, I am a big fan of this and get very good results. The only thing to say is that this can take two operations or more to get to the size and shape of breasts that you desire. It is also limited by the amount of fat you have available to harvest and transfer to the breasts. The plus side is that it is your own tissue, feels very natural compared to an implant (because it is), and you will never have to worry about the potential risks and complications associated with implants.
I would advise that you consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon that can offer you all these options.
I wish you luck and do not rush in to surgery - this is your health and your life first and foremost.
Best,
Marcus

Should I get breast implants if I have fibromyalgia, or should I just get a fat transfer to my breasts?

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Answer: Should I get fat or implants when I have fibromyalgia?

Answer: Should I get fat or implants when I have fibromyalgia?

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Should I get breast implants if I have fibromyalgia, or should I just get a fat transfer to my breasts?

Answers (4)

Answer: Should I get fat or implants when I have fibromyalgia?

Answer: Should I get fat or implants when I have fibromyalgia?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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