40 pounds away from goal weight - Will my breasts sag again if I lose weight after I get a breast reduction and lift?

Question

I want to get a breast reduction/lift verysoon because I've been suffering with back and neck pain and PT and epidural shots are not enough. The thing is I am not at my goal weight, I had a baby 9 months ago (no breastfeeding) and I am stuck at 190 lbs. I am 5'8" and my goal weight is 150. I know it is best to lose the weight first then get a reduction but I can't wait anymore.I am currently a 38DDD and I want to get down to a C/D with surgery. Will they sag again if I lose weight after surgery?

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

I counsel my patients they will have the best results if they can be as close as possible to their ideal weight prior to surgery. Weight gain or loss will change results.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
And thank you for the question.
I always encourage my patients to be at their optimal weight prior to surgery, but sometimes, if they hit a plateau, especially if heavy breasts/pain interfere with exercising, we still proceed with surgery understanding that the risk of complications is higher with higher BMI.
If you were to lose 30-40 lbs after the surgery, it may change the breast shape.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Breast Reduction surgeries to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. 
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

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.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Igbacr,
congrats on the weight loss! Generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a tummy tuck, otherwise your results will be suboptimal if you continue to lose weight after the surgery. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! You should absolutely try to get within 5-10 lbs of your goal weight prior to surgery. If you lose a significant amount of weight afterwards then yes, your breasts may droop again. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

As you mentioned it is best for you to reach your goal weight and maintain it before having surgery.  For some women when they lose weight they notice a significant change to their breasts, while others don't.  A 40 pound weight loss is pretty significant and would likey result in some impact on your results.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for the question and for ever 20 pounds in body weight loss there maybe a pound in breast. So it would be best to get to a stable lower weight prior to surgery as weight loss after may adversely affect your result

Dr Corbin

Dr Corbin

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
The breast is composed of glandular tissue and fat. Weight loss will result in reduction of the breast fat but the skin envelope will not shrink, resulting in recurrent breast sag. In our practice, we recommend that the patient be within 15 pounds of their desired body weight before undergoing the procedure. Earlier surgery can be performed if necessary for unrelenting pain, but a later secondary breast lift will most likely be required.
Visit a board certified plastic surgeon for in-person evaluation and discussion.
Best wishes...

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