25 year implant removal - will I need a lift?

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Commonly, a breast lift will be needed after implant removal. Each individual scenario is different and photos would be helpful.

In my experience a lift is rarely needed. I remove the implants and let the healing process happen. Only one patient had ever wanted a lift after that. I'd be happy to see you virtually or in person if you want.
Leland Deane MD FACS
516-238-0194

Thank you for your inquiry! It sounds like you would be a great candidate for an Explant. We would need to see you for a consultation and assess whether a Mastopexy (breast lift) would be needed based on your goals. We would love to help you reach those goals. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon so we can create a surgical plan for you!

Hello, thank you for your question. It is great that you are considering what is best for your body and comfort. Given your situation, I have attached a video that provides a detailed response to answer your question.  

Dear InaNte, thank you for your question.

After having implants for 25 years and experiencing changes in weight, it's possible that your breasts may have stretched and sagged over time. While it's difficult to determine without a physical examination, removing implants without a lift may result in some degree of sagging, especially given your current size. However, whether or not you'll need a lift depends on various factors, including skin elasticity and the degree of sagging. I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your individual case and discuss the potential outcomes, including any changes in size, shape, and the need for a lift.

Dear InaNte,
it is hard to predict whether will you need a breast lift. You can get implant removal and wait to see how will your breasts look after removal. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

In general, if the breasts are not droopy, you will not need a lift. The breasts shrink, like following childbirth, back to their previous size. However, the older we are, the less chance the tissue will be as good. Please talk with your surgeon about this. It's difficult to give a more accurate opinion without photos.

Without seeing what your breasts look like it's difficult to give a recommendation on needing a lift or not. The nice thing about saline implants is that they can be deflated. Your surgeon should be able to delate the implants in clinic with a needle. This would give you an idea of what your breasts would look like without implants, and help you in making your decision about getting a lift or not. This only works with saline implants and you have to be 100% decided on getting them out, because they can't be reinflated after this.

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs. However, I recommend 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. If you went up 2 cup size with your implants then you will go down 2 cup sizes when you remove them.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hello @InaNte, thank you for your question! All of the above are possible. My preference is to combine breast implant removal with immediate repositioning of the mammary tissue to address projection of the upper pole and medial areas using the BRALAN Technique (Breast Reconstruction Anatomical Lift Augmentation) since the results will be adequate and have a minimal scar in the shape of an L. Remember to have a complete capsulectomy. If you are considering breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. 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)