Considering removing 275 CC polytech tear drop silicone implants after 4 years. Do I need a lift? (photos)

Hello @skyeinthebowl, thank you for your question. If you want breast explant, yes you need a lifting because although at this time there is no breast pexy (the breast is not sagging) as such, when removing the prostheses the void generated by having had prostheses needs remodeling on the remaining tissue, so that the tissue has support and can improve the shape. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD FACS

Dear skyeinthebowl,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. You can get implant removal and wait to see the final results and then decide whether you'll need breast lift. 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question and posting appropriate pictures. You seem to be a very good candidate for breast implant removal an internal left without any external scars. You may also add small amount of fat to replace the loss volume if that’s what you wish. It is best to have a virtual consultation to discuss options of course.

You may have some mild sagging since your implants have stretched your tissues, but overall I think you will do well. The capsule may need to be removed, but I don't think you will need a lift.

From your photos it appears you will be able to remove the implants without a lift. You will lose the volume that the implants provide, but the nipple position should still be appropriate. If you are unhappy with the result you could always elect to return for a lift at a later time.

Based on these pictures the nipple areola complex appears to be above the IMF. This means that there is no ptosis. Ptosis (droopiness) is the indication for an uplift

Hello Dear,
Thank you for the detailed information and clear pictures.
Considering we all have to live by the rules of gravity, leaving your breasts without implants will cause them to drop in the long term. But you seem young and healthy, that's why I would recommend you to remove the implants first and maybe make a small amount of fat transfer to the breasts to prevent sagging right after explant.
Please kindly keep that in mind that sometimes the fat doesn't survive in the breasts. Every surgery comes with its own risks.
You always have the option to get the implants out - it is a small and short procedure anyways- and then if you observe too much sagginess over time, you can have a breast lift in the future.