Myth: Cosmetic Breast Surgery Causes Suicide
The suicide rate is higher for women who have had cosmetic breast implant surgery; however, this doesn’t appear to be correlated to the procedure itself.
Fact: The Psychological Characteristics of Those Receiving Cosmetic Breast Surgery Are Consistent with Increased Risk
Research suggests that certain psychological characteristics, such as depressive symptoms or seeking treatment for depression, are more common in women seeking breast implant surgery and in those with increased risk of suicide. While there’s a correlation between cosmetic breast implant surgery and suicide, it doesn’t appear that the relationship is causal.
Learn More
The research appears to have been primarily done on cisgender women seeking elective (meaning not medically necessary) breast surgery involving implants. More research and studies are needed to determine whether this correlation is seen in other groups, such as cisgender men or nonbinary folk, or other procedures, such as breast reduction or gender affirming surgery.
Evidence
Evidence supports an increased risk of suicide in those who seek cosmetic breast surgery; however, at this point it doesn’t appear that this is a causal relationship.
In Support of the Myth
None identified.
To Refute the Myth
"Mortality and Suicide Among Danish Women with Cosmetic Breast Implants" (2004)
Elevated suicide rates for those with cosmetic breast surgery.
Unclear or Mixed Support
"Psychological characteristics of Danish Women with Cosmetic Breast Implants" (2009)
Psychological characteristics are a plausible reason for the increased risk.
Learn more about suicide myths – and the truths behind them – by following the links below.