Plastic Surgery: Your Questions Answered w/ Dr. Anthony Youn

BII Controversy

Dr. Anthony Youn discusses the controversial topic of breast implant illness (BII), a condition with over 100 potential symptoms including brain fog, muscle aches, and fatigue. He explains that although the FDA lifted the moratorium on silicone implants in 2006, social media has since amplified patient stories, leading him to reconsider his stance on BII 1. Despite pushback from colleagues, he remains vocal about the issue, emphasizing the importance of patient well-being over industry profits 2.

I believe it's real. I still do breast augmentation surgery because I don't believe it affects everybody. I think that the vast majority of women who do get implants do tend to do really well with it.

--- Dr. Anthony Youn

Dr. Youn highlights that studies on implants are often funded by implant companies, which can bias the results 2.

   

Fat Transfer Risks

Fat transfer for breast augmentation is another area of concern for Dr. Youn. He explains that while the procedure involves transferring fat from one part of the body to the breasts, only about half of the injected fat typically remains 3. More importantly, he raises a critical question about the long-term risks, particularly the potential for increased breast cancer risk due to the stem cells in the transferred fat 4.

What happens when you take a cancer-prone organ and inject it with substances filled with stem cells?

--- Dr. Anthony Youn

Dr. Youn notes that this issue is rarely discussed in the medical community, despite its significance 4.

   

Nose Job Issues

Nose jobs, or rhinoplasties, have the highest revision rates among cosmetic surgeries, according to Dr. Youn. He explains that scar tissue formation can lead to visible asymmetries, often necessitating additional surgeries 5. This can create a cycle of repeated procedures, which is why he no longer performs nose jobs 6.

The highest percentage of people with body dysmorphia who are plastic surgery patients are nose job patients.

--- Dr. Anthony Youn

Dr. Youn emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and thorough consultations before undergoing such procedures 5.

   

Thread Lift Concerns

Thread lifts, marketed as non-surgical facelifts, are another controversial topic. Dr. Youn recounts the history of thread lifts, noting that their results are often short-lived, lasting only six months to a year 7. He warns that while the procedure is generally safe, it can leave behind scar tissue and may not provide lasting results.

You cannot create a true change in the anatomy of your tissues by pulling a thread through it.

--- Dr. Anthony Youn

Dr. Youn advises that patients should be fully informed about the temporary nature of thread lifts before opting for the procedure 7.