Will 550cc implants withstand a lift or should I be concerned about sagging?

Question

I’m scheduled for my breast lift and implant surgery at the end of this month. I’m 5’7, my chest width from shoulder to shoulder is 17”. I’m 172lbs. I wanted to return to my full chest previous to having children, which was a DD. I’m looking at 550cc high profile implants. My only concern is that the lift won’t last for 10 years. Does this size implant have trouble withstanding a lift, should I got a little smaller? I want lots of upper pole and fullness but not too overdone.

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 and style breast implants. They then get to choose what looks right for them. 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 size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

While there is no guarantee that your breasts will or will not sag in 10 years, 550cc is a larger implant and so is heavier. The heavier the implant, the faster the sag. It would be a good idea to choose a proportionately sized implant if you’d like to minimize the risk of sagging.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The heavier the implant, the more likely that the weight will put stress on the skin envelope resulting in the need for a lift at a later time.  Even with no implants some women need a lift to address sagging.  Even with large implants, some women never need a lift.  If the implant is one that correctly fits the breast space and gives you the look you want it is best to proceed with that and if you need a lift later, then so be it.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Luminous774471,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

A lot depends on the type of lift to be done as well as seeing your current appearance. 550 to me seems a little on the large side however and increases the risk of sagging

Will 550cc implants withstand a lift or should I be concerned about sagging?

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Will 550cc implants withstand a lift or should I be concerned about sagging?

Answers (8)

Answer: Implant size

Answer: Implant size

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Breast lift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.