Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Question

I am struggling to figure out if I should get a breast reduction, breast lift, or both. For the first time in my life I am overweight since menopause (BMI 33.1), but a year before menopause, when I was BMI 24.9, I started to have rash issues under my breasts. I have always been busty. Once I got through meno, the rashes became chronic due to skin changes(sagging). I am trying to figure out what would be best in the long run for comfort and lift. Before surgery, I plan to lose weight.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs.  However, the technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Without pictures it's difficult to provide a proper recommendation. That said, it depends on what your goals are. A breast lift and a breast reduction are similar surgeries in that tissue is removed to lift the breast to a higher position. The difference is that with a reduction, more tissue may be removed, leaving your with even smaller breasts. I suggest you schedule a consult for a proper evaluation. Hope this helps. Always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Moises Salama MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Adam Bauermeister, MD · Answer

Hello, 
Photos, weight, height, as well as past medical and surgical information concerning the breasts would be needed prior to any specific recommendations. In general, a breast lift is best when the patient wants to remain the same size and have improved breast shape and a raised nipple areolar complex while a breast reduction is best when the above is desired as well as a reduced breast size. Lifting the breast is a component of a breast reduction unless liposuction alone is performed. Based on your description and subsequent issues (persistent breast fold rashes) and a desire for smaller size breasts, a breast reduction may be a better procedure for you. I would also recommend weight loss prior to surgery, as a BMI greater than 30 has been associated with an increased risk for complications, and reaching your ideal weight prior to surgery will lead to the most long lasting results for the breast reduction. 
Dr. Bauermeister

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @jeannacthompson, thank you for your question. When making the surgical plan all aspects are taken into account, including future aspects. Through a proper surgical technique you can obtain an anatomical and aesthetic shape that allows you to have volume and aesthetic symmetry. For more information and recommendations it is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS),International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jeannacthompson,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction for a postmenopausal woman?

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction

Answer: Breast lift or Breast reduction

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.