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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

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)

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

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

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

It depends on a number of factors including your goal size, your skin and tissue type, degree of symmetry, and nipple position. Ideally, you achieve your goal weight and maintain it for 6-12 months before surgery.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

These are similar:

A breast lift will tighten sagging skin, should reduce rash underneath.

A breast redid also lifts plus removed more tissue for smaller breasts.

Weight loss can reduce breast size and is recommended before any breast auroxi there are not further changes post op.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to best discuss your options and expectations.

Anne-Sophie Lessard, MD · Answer

Hello! I hope you are doing well. The technique to perform a breast lift or a breast reduction is the same. Both a breast lift and a breast reduction lift your breasts. The techniques vary on the amount of skin that needs to be tighten (lollipop, vertical or inverted T incisions). What is important is to tell your surgeon if you would like to have your breast smaller during the lift so he can remove some of the glands and fat during the procedure. I often ask my patients their current bra size and what they would like to be to have an idea of how much to remove during their breast lift. I hope this help! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not state your cup size. If you are over a D, you might want to consider a reduction to come down to a more comfortable size. Otherwise, a lift could be done. Wait until you have lost your weight before doing a lift.

Pinky Devi Ayyappan, Mch, MBBS · Answer

Hello All breast reduction procedures also have breast lift effect .so if you have heavy breast or you are not happy with volume (size) (this you can decide after wearing your brassies do u like the size ) you can go for breast reduction.Breast lift can be done 1.without reducing size only lift2.increasing the size ie augmentation and lift3.reducing the size and lift.hope this helps you
regards