Breast lift or a reduction, tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

Good evening, i am in the market for a mommy makeover but i have some questions. I am a 32E Do you think that i need a reduction or will a simple lift do the trick, and do you think that i have enough skin for a full tummy tuck? I don't want a mini because i would like to get rid of the stretch marks under my belly button.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Iferrerss2409,

Thank you for reaching out with your questions about whether a breast lift or reduction combined with a tummy tuck is the right choice for you. Based on your history and the photos you've shared, you have a couple of options regarding your breasts. If you're content with your current breast size, an anchor breast lift (mastopexy) would be suitable. However, if you're considering smaller breasts, combining a breast reduction with a lift would be advantageous. An anchor incision is typically the best approach in such cases.

Regarding your abdomen, it appears that a full tummy tuck would be the most beneficial for you. This procedure is effective in removing a significant amount of stretch marks, far more than what a mini tummy tuck could achieve. A full tummy tuck will not only tighten your abdominal area but also maximize the removal of stretch marks.

Combining an anchor breast reduction with a full tummy tuck is a common practice, and it's often done under general anesthesia. These procedures can be completed in about 6 to 8 hours as outpatient surgery. You can generally expect to return to work within two weeks. Drains are typically used for the tummy tuck and are usually removed 7 to 10 days post-procedure.

It's important to have a clear picture of what you want to achieve with these procedures. I hope this information helps guide you in making a decision that aligns with your goals. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

I would recommend a breast lift. This will maximally lift and reshape your breasts very nicely. No implant needed as you will have proportionate breasts with a natural, lifted look (see attached link). Your tummy needs an exam to help determine the correct procedure for you. If you have significant diastasis, then you will need a full tummy tuck to maximally tighten your tummy. If not, liposuction with skin excised umbilical transposition is an excellent option. Thank you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear lferreras2409,
my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity. 
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Cem Berkay Sinaci, MD · Answer

Hello, a minimum reduction may help keeping the shape in the long term as you have good volume. An internal bra or auto-implant technique can be used. And you have enough skin for a full tummy tuck.

Mahira Tanovic, MD · Answer

Hello!
This is a great inquiry you have! When considering reduction vs. lift, there are some things to take into consideration. For example, if you are satisfied with your breast size, and do not wish to be smaller, you may opt for a breast lift without a reduction. If you are interested in going smaller and reducing your breast size, you may consider a reduction, with a lift. 
As for the abdominoplasty part of the procedure, an in office consultation would be required to assess if you have enough loose skin, or if you may just be a candidate for liposuction, or both liposuction and a tummy tuck!
Best,Dr. Tanovic

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

A breast lift and breast reduction are essentially the same procedure.  With a breast lift only skin is removed whereas with a breast reduction both skin and breast tissue are removed to reduce the size or the breasts.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

If you’d like to keep your breasts about the same size as now, then a breast lift would be sufficient. If you’d like to be smaller, than additional tissue can be removed during your breast lift to further reduce size. For the tummy tuck, you appear to have some loose skin above your belly button so yes, a full tummy tuck would probably be more suitable for you than a mini,

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Dear iferreras2409, thank you for sharing your question. After analyzing your case I can say you're a good candidate for Vaser Liposuction in your flanks and back, breast reduction with lift and BBL. Make sure you go on consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Hope this helps and best of lucks. Dr. Luis Mejia.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

A partial reason your breasts have sagged is the weight of them.  If you simply lift your breasts, the weight stays the same and the possibility of early resagging is higher.  A reduction decreases the weight of your breasts so the lift will last longer.  Without an in person examination to determine the amount of skin laxity of your abdomen, it is not possible for me to give you the best response.  See a plastic surgeon for a detailed consultation.  Best wishes.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

The only difference between the surgeries is the breast is made smaller in a reduction. Breast tissue is actually removed. If when you are in a good bra, you have the thought you are too big, then reduction is the answer. The final scar is the same. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

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