Alternative to Anchor Incision for Breast Lift?

Question

I got Silicone breast implants two years ago, going from a B cup to a full D. Since then, I've had Torsoplasty, Liposuction and gotten smaller.Now, I'm a size 4 with a tiny waist (gastric bypass five years ago) but have enormous boobs. If I got smaller implants would I need to have a Breast Lift too? If so, is there an alternative to the "anchor" incision that would be less visible?

John LoMonaco, MD, FACS · Answer

Also, because you are a weight loss patient you may have poor elasticity of the skin. One alternative I ahve pursued is to remove the implants and let the skin settle for 6 weeks or so.  Sometimes it's not necessary to do a lift after that when we go back to insert the smaller implants..
I have used a version of the LeJour technique (a lollipop shaped scar) for all my breast lifts, including WLS patients, and have not found the anchor scar necessary even in very large reductions or lifts.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

It is difficult to give an exact answer without seeing any photos of you. It is possible that you would do well and be in better proportion by just removing your implants and doing a short scar or lollipop scar lift. You can see examples of this on my web site. www.bellevueplasticsurgeons.com.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Unfortunately,  it is not possible to give you accurate advice without direct examination or viewing pictures. Whether you will benefit from breast lifting (and what technique necessary) after downsizing of breast implants will depend on several factors including the quality of skin elasticity ( often poor after significant weight loss),  the amount of &ldquo;loose&rdquo; skin present, and your goals.

	In person examination by well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons will be helpful to you.

	Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

WIthout an exam I couldn;t tell you what might work for you, but in general there are other options of lifts including a lollipop type of incision closure.

Louis DeLuca, MD · Answer

Hello Sleepy,

	The vertical breast lift (think lollipop scar) is an excellent procedure that can be used to remove much of the excess skin and provide a very nice breast lift. Of course the decision to use this approach depends on your particular situation. The amount and quality of the excess skin plasy a major role in determining if you are a good candidate for the vertical breast lift.

	Another alternative to the anchor scar is what is known as the vertical lift with a short-T (or horizontal) scar. This is essentially the 'lollipop' scars with a smaller horizontal scar in your breast crease that does not extend the full length of the breast and thus is barely visible. Minimizing scars has come a long ways in the plastic surgery realm so remember to ask your plastic surgeon if you are a good candidate for a breast lift without the full anchor scar.

Alternative to Anchor Incision for Breast Lift?

Answers (5)