Implant replacement & lift over 10 years post-op - can I get a lift without a vertical scar? (Photos)

Question

I need to have my implants replaced because they were recalled. It's been over 10 years so it's time. They have shaped oddly overtime and I would like a lift, but I do not want a vertical scar. Is there anyway to get a little lift without having the vertical scar? Someone told me that they could do a half circle incision on the top of my areola and pull up the skin up that way. Is that possible ? What are the pros and cons to this method?

Paul E. Chasan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I have been in practice almost 30 years and revisionary breast surgery is a large portion of my practice.  Over the years, I have found that any of the crescent lifts and donut lifts are just mild areola repositionings and actually do not lift the breast at all.  Many times, they cause unacceptable scarring. You are an excellent candidate for a lollipop lift.  There is a vertical scar, however the scars generally heal very well and are almost imperceptible at a year.  You should be able to have an excellent result.  Best wishes to you.

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

Anything other than an anchor-type pattern lift will not properly address the nipple position with comparison for the breast mound that is currently visible in these photos.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Yes, you can get a lift without the vertical scar, but you could achieve a much better outcome with the extra scar. The differences in improvement are substantial and I personally would not recommend having the lesser procedure. Seek a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she can provide realistic expectations for the change that could be achieved using different procedures.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Until we learn how to defy the laws of the physical world, the answer is an absolute no. There is no periareolar type of skin excision ('lift') that will give your breasts a pleasing shape or positioning of the nipple areolar complex where it belongs. By the way, the scars you have now from your circumareolar lift are FAR MORE conspicuous than a proper breast lift scar, and the vertical scar is the MOST likely scar to fade away.  I can assure you that you will find plenty of practitioners who will honor your request and take your money. Don't fall for it, you will not be happy.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is explantation and lift using The Bellesoma Method. The implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained if not injured during your previous surgery. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, the odd shape and high position of your implants is the result of scar tissue or capsule contraction.

Replacing your implants will allow revision of the pockets to reposition the new implants downward. Also make them rounder. The new implants should be the same or slightly larger.

This should change the appearance of your breasts as they are ptotic over the implants. You may not need a full T lift as your nipples appear in good position. You may only need some skin tightened along the bottom depending how the surgery goes.

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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You could probably qualify for the peri-areolar lift with the incision all around the areola. I am not a fan of the upper half lift because it will probably change the shape of your areola to something longer.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD · Answer

Based on the pictures you will benefit from vertical lift. I offer my patients with saline implants, deflation of the implants and reevaluation after two weeks. You have textured implants that stuck to your chest all and your breast tissue has fallen off the implants. In my experience stage approach is safer. The other concern is the nipple/areola necrosis post vertical lift due to tissue thinning. please find a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon.

Implant replacement & lift over 10 years post-op - can I get a lift without a vertical scar? (Photos)

Answers (8)

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