24-Hour Breast Implants: Is There Such a Thing as a Temporary Boob Job?  

With over 300,000 breast augmentation procedures performed annually in the US, it’s no secret that many women wish for a larger bust. In the world of cosmetic surgery, there has been a recent surge in requests for what has been deemed “The 24-Hour Boob Job.”

This “Cinderella Effect” may be alluring, but who wants to see the magic deflate when the clock strikes twelve? Before you grab those glass slippers, make sure you read the fine print on this off-label treatment.

Is There Really a 24-Hour Fix?

The procedure does indeed yield noticeable results for around 24 hours, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea for everyone. Originally intended to show women the results they might expect from breast augmentation, this temporary breast enhancement involves injecting saline directly into the breast tissue to add volume. The effect lasts for approximately 24 hours: during the course of the day, the saline is absorbed by the body, with breasts gradually returning to their natural state.

The primary reason this temporary procedure has gained popularity is that it is not as invasive as breast augmentation, nor does it require the same level of commitment. Saline injections are attractive to clients that wish to boost their bust for a special occasion, or if they are unsure about having breast augmentation surgery.

Is There a Downside to 24-Hour Breast Implants?

As the treatment is fairly new, the long-term effects are not yet known. That said, we do know there is the potential for altering breast shape and skin laxity. By adding volume to the breast temporarily, you are essentially stretching the skin in a way that is similar to breast growth during pregnancy. Though the effect is fleeting, repeatedly enlarging the breast tissue and then returning to normal size could contribute to sagging breasts in the long run.

Because of the less invasive nature of this treatment, many are thinking of it as a safe, low-risk alternative to breast augmentation. But it’s important to know that using saline injections in this manner is an off-label use of the product and has not been approved by the FDA. The most common known side effect of saline injections is minor bruising, but there may be other side effects as well as long-term effects. Women considering the procedure will be safest waiting until formal studies and clinical trials have been conducted.

We do know that with the use of any injectable treatment, there is a risk of exposing the area to bacteria, blood pooling at the injection site, and infection. Sequential use of saline injections would only heighten the chances of these complications.

There is also the issue of cost—at approximately $3,500.00 per treatment, the 24-hour boob job is not a cost effective decision for most patients.

Can Saline Injections Give Me a Preview of a Real Augmentation?

In short, no. If you’ve been considering implants and like the idea of seeing how it feels to have larger breasts without committing to surgery, the 24-hour boob job may seem like a great option. The problem is saline injections will not give you the same look as properly chosen and placed breast implants. Breast augmentation is an art and an experienced cosmetic surgeon will know how to tailor the surgery and implants to achieve the beautiful results you desire. Saline injections can’t replace the work of a surgeon or imitate the shaping effects silicone or saline breast implants provide.

A better way to get a preview of breast augmentation results is to come in for a consultation with Dr. Pancholi, and learn about your options. At your sizing session, you will have the opportunity to try on various breast implants in order to provide you with a sense of how they will look and feel on your body.

If you’re interested in learning more about proven breast enhancement options and would like to have all your questions answered, Dr. Pancholi can help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.