Can a back lift / liposuction be performed at the same time as a breast lift? (photos)

Question

Hello! I'm finally getting my breast lift in early February! I am so excited to have more youthful breasts! I was wondering if I should see if my surgeon can preform a back lift or liposuction of my back during my lift, however, I'm not finding much on google regarding if they can be done at the same time. Is this an option? I have had significant weight loss and this is my 3rd reconstructive surgery I'm having (really wish insurance would help out with those of us that need to have things fix)

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You are an excellent candidate for 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. At the same time, a back lift can be performed. The incision is designed to lie within the bra line and extends anteriorly to the incision from the breast lift.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Definitely your Breast lift May be combined with Back lift and a little liposuction to the back. Incision will be placed over your brassiere line. 
It is a very common combination for Experts in After Weight loss surgery which sometimes it also combines with arms and lateral chest. 
Be encouraged. 
Dr. Cárdenas

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Your query about having a back lift and breast surgery performed at the same time is quite common. In your specific case, a procedure such as a horizontal torsoplasty or bra-line back lift can indeed be performed concurrently with breast surgery.

The process involves positioning you face down while an incision is made across your back. A substantial 'butterfly'-shaped area of skin is removed, which effectively eliminates the rolls of skin you're concerned about. As the incision extends across the back, it also reaches the outer edge of the breast area.

You are then turned over for the breast surgery to commence, which may or may not involve inserting implants, followed by a breast lift. Usually, two drains are required, which remain in place for approximately 10 to 14 days, depending on the output.

These procedures are routinely performed by plastic surgeons who specialize in massive weight loss and reconstructive surgery. However, it's important to note that liposuction alone may not adequately address the skin rolls on your back. While liposuction can remove some of the back fat, it won't eliminate the skin rolls, which are mainly due to age and weight loss.

I hope this response clarifies your options for concurrent back lift and breast surgeries and provides guidance on why a back lift may be preferable over liposuction in your case.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Not only is it possible but this will give you likely the best result. The lateral portion of the breast reduction often leaves some excess axillary tissue or the "bra roll" that many women complain about. The best way to excise this tissue is with a "bra line excision" or back lift that you are referring to. Performing these surgeries, with some additional liposuction, will contour the bra line and back very well when performed together. Based on your pictures, you would be an ideal candidate for both.

Carlos Marciales, MD · Answer

Yes of course you can do it, it calls upper body lift, includes breast lift, arm lift, torso lift and back lift, no all the doctors perform this procedure, but if you find someone who do it frequently, you will have amazing results!!

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! The answer is yes, back lift (upper body lift) and breast lift are often performed together under the same general anesthesia. I start with the upper body lift and back liposuction with my patient sleeping face down. Once the upper body lift/liposuction is complete, the patient is repositioned sleeping face up to perform the breast lift. Safety is critical for combined operations that require a position change with the patient asleep. The airway, eyes, neck, back, extremities, and all lines/catheters must be protected. A position change adds an additional 30+ minutes to the anesthesia time. That said, back and breast lifts compliment each other by enabling me to optimize the bra role transition area.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank-you for your question. It is certainly possible to combine both breast and back lift procedures, although it may be somewhat uncomfortable finding a comfortable position to sleep. Based on your pictures, you will need a back-lift procedure and not just liposuction to contour your back. Please find an experienced Board certified Plastic surgeon who can examine you and help you with all your concerns. All the best!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Combining procedures is common and considered safe, but there is a limit.  Speak with your surgeon if based on your medical history this is something you can consider.  Depending on the amount of liposuction you are wanting it may be too much for one stage.  Positioning during recovery may also be an issue as you'll have procedures on both your front and your back.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Great question and nice posted photos. It can be combined in 1 operation but (there is always a but!) it might be too much surgery in 1 session. The amount of potential blood loss is one issue. And if adding in liposuction that does cause some concern as to adding to blood loss. As well as, how your you lay down since you can not lay on your breasts and laying on your back lift might split open the sutures. Best to virtual consult with... Expect total fees in the $15,000-$25,000 ranges. And yes,NO insurance will cover cosmetic surgery....