Why am I experiencing tenting 3 years after my breast lift and what can be done to fix this?

Question

So I had a breast lift with NO IMPLANTS almost three years ago. So no, it is not inflammation. After the procedure I had extreme tightness along my sternum and upper poles and it was SO ITCHY. Ever since, my skin tents along a portion of my sternum when I wear a bra, bend over, or lay in the bath. I can't find any literature on this. How did this happen and is there any hope of someone fixing this? My surgeon refuses to attempt a repair and says it can't be fixed.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Jjrosey99, thank you for your question. It is important to analyze from all points of view what may be the cause of what you are feeling. It may be internal adhesions in the healing process. It is imperative, however, to have a breast ultrasound performed to determine if there is any other underlying cause. In the event that it is an adhesion, it can be corrected by undergoing a revision (reception) of the scar and rearranging the entire surgical area. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Jjrosey99,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

If you're experiencing issues or concerns with a surgical procedure like a breast lift, it's important to consult with a qualified medical professional who can provide personalized advice based on your situation. That being said, here are some potential reasons for experiencing tenting or other issues after a breast lift, and some options that might be considered:

1.) Tissue Relaxation: Over time, tissues can naturally relax and stretch, potentially leading to a recurrence of sagging or tenting.

2.) Weight Changes: Significant weight gain or loss after a breast lift can impact the results, as changes in body weight can affect breast tissue and skin elasticity.

3.) Aging: The effects of aging, including changes in skin elasticity and collagen production, can impact the results of a breast lift.

4.) Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you've experienced pregnancy and breastfeeding since your breast lift, these factors can alter the appearance of the breasts.

5.) Unforeseen Healing: Healing processes can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes. Scar tissue and healing responses vary between individuals.

6.) Surgical Technique: The success of a breast lift can also depend on the surgical technique used and the expertise of the surgeon.

To address tenting or other concerns after a breast lift, you should consider scheduling a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon or your original surgeon if possible. They can assess your situation and discuss potential options, which might include:

1.) Revision Surgery: In some cases, a revision surgery might be recommended to address the issues you're experiencing. This could involve adjusting the breast tissue and skin to achieve a more desirable outcome.

2.) Non-Surgical Treatments: Depending on the specific issues, non-surgical treatments like skin tightening procedures, dermal fillers, or injectables might be considered to improve the appearance of the breasts.

3.) Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and exercise, can contribute to better long-term outcomes.

4.) Supportive Bras: Wearing well-fitted supportive bras can help maintain the results of your breast lift and provide added comfort.

5.) Realistic Expectations: It's important to have realistic expectations about the results of any surgical procedure. A consultation with a medical professional can help you understand what can be achieved.

Remember, only a qualified medical professional who can evaluate your individual situation can provide accurate advice and recommendations. If you're concerned about the results of your breast lift, reach out to a healthcare provider for a proper assessment.

We would be happy to discuss this with you in more detail. Please visit us online to request a consultation or chat with our friendly appointment coordinators via live chat.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not post photos, so I cannot be specific. However, internal sutures might be placed to help tighten the area over your breast bone.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

JJ,
Photos would help immensely in a surgical plan.  Tenting post mastopexy is almost unheard of.  I would need to examine you to see if repair is possible.  Some potential fixes may involve:
Liposuction (if indicated) and suture plication of the skin to the sternum.

Why am I experiencing tenting 3 years after my breast lift and what can be done to fix this?

Answers (5)

Answer: Lift

Answer: Lift

Answer: Skin tenting

Answer: Skin tenting

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Why am I experiencing tenting 3 years after my breast lift and what can be done to fix this?

Answers (5)

Answer: Lift

Answer: Lift

Answer: Skin tenting

Answer: Skin tenting

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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.