Age 33, 130lb, 5'5", 33B - Mastopexy and submuscular implants or subglandular implants without lift? (photos)

Hello, in your case you need subglandular implants, and lollypop lift, your areola is not very low, but the lower pole of your breast hangs a lot

Thank you for your question. Your concern about scars is understandable and a shared by many patients considering cosmetic breast surgery. However, breast implants alone will only fill out the existing breast tissue, not lift the nipples to a higher position. As your surgeon already pointed out, each option involves a compromise and there are different advantages/disadvantages. If a person has loose breast tissue they might need larger implants to fill the existing tissue and provide fullness, but over time these heavy implants could drop/sag even more. On the other hand, if you are having implants plus a lift, you could choose smaller implants then reshape the overlying tissue. This does not guarantee the breasts will never change or sag, but the nipple position will be improved and result may be longer-lasting. If find it helpful to explain the relative risks, costs and recovery time, then show patients photos of each result. After having a thorough consultation, I find that most patients have an easier time deciding which procedure is best for them.

Dear Fabfive7,
determining whether you need simply a breast augmentation versus a breast lift can be somewhat complicated. It depends on a number of factors including skin laxity and current nipple position. Generally speaking, if the nipples are lower than the inframammary line the patient will most likely need a breast lift. If the nipples are at or above the inframammary line we can generally get by with just a breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often still using implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift. To be sure a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine what the patient actually needs.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery