Will my breasts be lifted with implants alone or should I consider a breast lift as well? (photo)

Question

Judging by the pictures, does my breast lift have to be done with a vertical scar or could it be lifted only with an implant or around the areola.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for posting. Implants never lift the breasts. They can sometimes fill out the breasts enough to give an ilusión of a lift. This only happens in “deflated” breasts that don’t have a high degree of ptosis. Unfortunately this is not your case because you have grade 3 ptosis (significant sagging). This is only corrected with a breast lift with the vertical scar as well as the scar around the areola and a horizontal scar on the breast fold. If you wish to have implants a breast lift with implants may be an option.
Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

When looking at your photo, your nipple placement is very low and points downwards.  You also have a lot of length to your breasts which is all extra skin. Your breast tissue is at the bottom of your breasts.  In order to get rid of the sagging and bring your nipple placement back to normal position you will need a lift for sure.  If you are looking to add volume and shape as well, adding implants would work very nicely along with the lift.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

The excess skin needs to be removed, and this requires a vertical and horizontal scar. An implant will improve upper pole fullness, but will not lift the breast. Repositioning of the areola is necessary, and lifting the entire skin envelope of the breast needs to be lifted and reshaped. Implants are not necessary, but do improve the aesthetics of the final result.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Sensible192673,
determining whether you need simply a breast augmentation versus a breast lift 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 a breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often still using implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift. To be sure a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine what the patient actually needs.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon' s experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

James Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your question and photo.
Whether implants alone can provide a sufficient lift or if you should consider a breast lift (mastopexy) depends on the degree of sagging (ptosis) and your desired outcome. If you have mild sagging where the nipples are at or slightly below the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast), implants alone might provide enough lift to achieve a satisfactory result. If the nipples are significantly below the inframammary fold or point downward, implants alone are unlikely to provide the necessary lift. A breast lift is recommended to reposition the nipples and remove excess skin.
Upon assessing your photo, if you want the nipples to be higher and more centered, a breast lift may be necessary. Implants alone do not significantly change the nipple position. Ultimately, a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to determine the best approach for your specific needs and desired results.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Implants do not lift the breasts, they only add volume. The technique I recommend is a breast lift using The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them 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. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ramin Behmand, MD, FACS · Answer

There is minimal benefit to having breast implants alone. Given the significant lift required, it may be best to separate the procedures, starting with the lift first. You can then consider implants to enhance the shape of your breasts, either simultaneously with the lift or afterward.

Dr. B.

Dr. B.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Your nipples are located below your breast fold and are pointing downward. You would most likely require a vertical breast lift. Implants alone would not be sufficient.

Ricardo L. Rodriguez, MD · Answer

hello,
Based on your photos you would likely need a breast lift with a vertical or lollipop incision. If  you want more upper pole fullness, you could also have an implant placed at the same time. That combination would give you the lift and upper pole fullness.
cheers,
Dr. Ricardo L Rodriguez MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Baltimore, Maryland

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