Should you be at your goal weight for explant and lift?

Question

I’m 5’7” and about 30lbs from goal weight. I’d like to take out the implants and I feel as though the 20 pounds I’ve already lost has made them fall and feel heavy. They are over the muscle

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Elective cosmetic surgery of any kind should be delayed until you reach a healthy, stable weight at which you are content.Further weight loss post op can have an impact on your ultimate breast size and may influence your decision making process pre-op. The best advice is wait until you reach a plateau.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Stephanie Beidler Teotia, MD · Answer

I think it would be best to be at your goal weight or within 10 lbs of your goal weight. Weight loss could change the size of your breasts depending on how much breast tissue you have. I would meet with a board certified plastic surgeon and let them know of your concerns. Once you have lost the weight you can discuss your size and shape options with the doctor. Good luck with your search.Sincerely,Stephanie Teotia, MD - Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Andrea Marando, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulation for your weight-loss.Before deciding to remove the implant and the best course of action, my advice is to  wait until you have lost all the weight you wish to lose and let your body settle. At that stage you will be able to evaluate adequately size and shape and decide the way forward to achieve a cosmetic outcome as close as possible to your desires. All the bestAndrea MarandoPlastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, Manchester and London, UK.

Stephen M. Becker, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, you should be at a weight you plan to maintain if you lose more significant than 10 lbs. You will deplete the volume in your breast, which can change the shape of your breast and nipple position. I hope this helps.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It would be best if you achieve your weight loss goals before having the implants removed. Weight loss will have a significant effect on the shape of the breasts. Once the implants are removed a lift or other procedures for reshaping will depend on the degree of skin looseness and ptosis ( drooping)  of the breasts. All the best!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Recommend that you continue your weight loss journey and reach your goal before your breast surgery.  Losing 30 pounds after an explant and lift may lead to another lift.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

It is always a good idea to be at or near your desired weight before plastic surgery.  After your implants are removed you'll have a lot of excess skin which will leave your breasts looking both deflated and droopy.  A breast lift will help to lift and shape your breasts.  If at any point you desire more volume you can do this with a fat transfer without implants.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs or told us your bra size.  However, I suggest you get as close to your goal weight before having surgery.  The technique I recommend is 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.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Lvmylf,
Generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a breast lift, otherwise your results will be suboptimal if you continue to lose weight after the surgery. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Always best to be within 10% of your goal weight prior to any surgical procedure as continued weight loss may leave you with additional loose/excess skin.  Hope this helps.