Common Concerns of Breast Implants For Runners
January 16th, 2012 Dr. Taleisnik
There are several special concerns or considerations when breast augmentation is performed in an athlete or fitness enthusiast. This topic arose when I recently performed a breast augmentation and breast implant revision for Vida Guerra, an internationally known model who has also been successful in professional fitness competitions. In the past, I have also done breast augmentations for female weightlifters and boxers, a college soccer goalie, many marathon runners, and countless other athletes. There are factors to consider for each of these patients and activities, requiring a plastic surgeon who understands the patients’ needs, and who will adapt the procedures accordingly.
First, it’s important to understand that breast implants are actually very strong and durable. They can withstand major trauma (such as slamming the chest against a car steering wheel in an accident) without rupturing in many instances. Participation in a highly physical sport should not prevent any woman from seeking breast augmentation.
I usually place breast implants in a subpectoral position (underneath the chest wall muscles). The muscle cushions and pads the implants, giving a more natural look and feel. Weightlifters or athletes who use their chest muscles in competition need to understand that contraction of the pectoralis muscles can distort or shift the implants temporarily. This is not harmful, but those women may not like the appearance of the breasts when the muscles are maximally contracting. One option would be placement of the implants in a subglandular position (above the muscle). The breast appearance would therefore not change much when the muscles are used. Each patient needs to weigh the advantages and disadvantages (with my help, of course) of subpectoral versus subglandular augmentation based on her needs and desires.
Fitness competitors and runners, who are often very thin, may want to consider silicone implants rather than saline implants to maintain a more natural appearance, especially during the activities involved in competition. Silicone is softer than saline, and tends to look more natural, especially in women with little fat or breast tissue to soften or cushion the implants.
I have operated on many runners who specifically request that I avoid excessive fullness on the sides of the breasts, in order to minimize any problems with arm movement while running. One of my patients, an avid marathoner, was “scared of losing my running stride and ability” after breast augmentation, yet she wanted “to look more feminine.” We discussed her concerns and developed an excellent surgical plan for her. She wrote me 2 ½ months later to say “I feel great. I just completed the L.A. Marathon and the twins (my new breasts) were great!”
It’s also important to remember that larger implants are heavier, which can be an issue for marathon runners and others. Using an implant size that’s appropriate for the patient’s anatomy can help to prevent unwanted stretching of the tissues or discomfort related to sports and training.
Any woman may seek breast augmentation regardless of her athletic activities or physical demands. It’s important to select a plastic surgeon (certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, of course) who will take the time to understand your specific needs and desires, and who will then create the ideal surgical plan. I’m sure Vida Guerra will grace many more magazine covers, but I also know that she will feel comfortable and confident in her appearance during her upcoming fitness competitions.
