I have small breasts and want a breast lift with no implants. Is there any point? (photo)

Hi moniqueFleming,

Determining whether you need simply a breast implant versus a breast lift or both can be somewhat complicated. It depends on a number of factors including skin laxity and current nipple position.

Generally speaking, if the nipples are lower than the inframammary line the patient will most likely need a breast lift. If the nipples are at or above the inframammary line we can generally get by with just breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often use an implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift.

These two surgeries can be done at the same time and this may be optimal as the risks can be minimized. 

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, it is actually breast tissue that is being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity.

In addition, upper pole fullness is achieved with appropriate implant selection but more importantly, submuscular placement, and precise pocket dissection. The submuscular placement allows the muscle to cover the top part of the implant which allows the upper pole to appear fuller. Keeping away from the lateral chest during pocket dissection allows the implant to remain higher and prevents it from falling off to the side.

You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

If volume is not important to you then you can get a lift to shape your breasts, an in person consultation would be best for a detailed exam and evaluation.always see a board certified PS.

Your breasts are fairly smalll, so a lift will improve shape and nipple position, but not volume. Whether that is adequate for you is your decision. You could always add a breast augmentation later if you feel the need to add volume.
Regards, Dr Steve Merten, Sydney

Thanks for your question. It is not necessary to get an implant if you are happy with the volume of your breast. A breast lift will change the position and shape of your breast. I would make a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon if your are interested in either. Best of luck! 

Hello and thank you for the question. Breast lift is indicated in correcting loose or sagging breasts. The procedure is done by removing portions of skin and then reshaping the breast tissue. As a result, the entire breast will become firmer and perkier. Whether or not a breast augmentation using implants is added to breast lift procedure is based on your aesthetic goals. Breast lift alone enhances the breast shape. Adding the implant creates more fullness in the upper part of the breast. As a simple rule, I always tell my patients if they like the size of their breasts in bra, they are probably ok with lift only. I would discuss your specific aesthetic goals with your surgeon. Ultimately, operative plan will be based on a detailed discussion between you and the surgeon. Please ask your surgeon to show your before and after pictures of his/her patients to get a clear understanding of what is involved in the procedure.
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.

Johns Hopkins-trained plastic surgeon

 

Thank you for your question, You can choose to do a Breast Lift without implants. You can also choose to do a Fat Transfer to the breast with the Breast Lift if you are looking to go up in cup size, as long as your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon thinks that you qualify for this procedure. I suggest you schedule a consultation with a few Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in order to assure you get the end result what you are looking for and they can give you a little more personal insight on what procedure can benefit you personally. 
Best Of Luck!

Dhaval Patel 

Plastic Surgeon 

Double Board Certified 

Hoffman Estates, IL 

Oakbrook, IL

Orland Park, IL

Chicago, IL

Dear Monique,The size of your breasts is not a determining factor against a breast lift. Using The Bellesoma/Horndeski Method breast lift can improve symmetry by making the larger breast smaller or by adding fat (at a later date -once lift has healed) to the smaller one. TBM can improve shape and position of your current breasts. Right now, the space between your breasts is too wide and your breasts fall to the sides. TBM anchors the newly shaped breast to the underlying chest muscle to provide long term stability and support to enhance position and perkiness. You are welcome to visit my gallery on this site to find an example that resembles your dimensions. TBM does not require implants, a vertical scar nor mesh to reshape the female breast. I hope this helps.Best wishes and kind regards,

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photograph, you are a
great candidate for a breast lift.  This can be designed to result in an
improved shape and contour of your breasts while minimizing scar
appearance and improving your symmetry.  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.  The most important aspect is to find a
surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a
qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Hello dear!!
Thanks you for your question. It is my pleasure to help you with your concerns.
If you can sacrifice volume, then it is possible, with great results. For you, I recommend an anchor incision breast lift.
I suggest you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon for a good evaluation and to talk about your goals.
I hope this is helpful.  Good luck :)

You can certainly have a lift without implants.  It can reshape your breasts and even out the size (by removing a small amount of tissue from the left side.  If you are happy with your cup size then there is no reason to consider implants.  The lift will make a big difference.  If later on , you decide you want to be fuller, there is always an option for implants later.