Unsurprisingly, breast augmentations have always topped the charts for popular cosmetic procedures in the United States. In 2013, there were approximately 300,000 procedures performed in the US alone.

But who are the women opting for implants? There is a common misconception about the women choosing the procedure. Many believe that it’s primarily young, wealthy women looking to enhance their figure, but the actual breakdown of the demographic choosing to go under the knife may come as a surprise.

In the U.S. the market for breast augmentations are women between the ages of 20 and 54. Women in their 20s, however, represent just a small slice. The most popular age group for the surgery is women between the ages of 30 and 39, with over 100,000 Americans in this age group choosing the surgery every year.

So why is there such a demand by women in their 30s? Breast implants and augmentations can help to increase confidence in women who see dramatic changes to their bodies as they age. Likewise, breast augmentation surgeries are highly common amongst mothers who are looking to restore their bodies to how they looked like before pregnancy (also known as mommy makeovers). Women also frequently choose the operation when they are looking to make a change in their lives or around the time of a major life event such as marriage, childbirth or divorce. There has also been an increase in patients or women at risk of developing breast cancer opting for breast implants after a mastectomy. Many women choose the procedure to help regain their pre-surgery body and feel confident with their shape.

 

Regardless of your age or the reason you are choosing to undergo a breast augmentation, it is important to do your research, feel confident about your decision and talk to a medical professional in your area. Consider the pros and the cons, the tough road to recovery and the needs post-implants, such as specialty bras and the potential of a follow-up procedure years down the road.