Can I get an implant without a lift? (Photo)

Thank you for your question.
Based on your photos, I recommend getting a breast lift at the time of augmentation. While inserting implants will give you the volume that you desire, your nipples may be lower than where you would like making the aesthetic not ideal.

Thanks for your question. For best results, I recommend a breast lift with implants. Without the lift, the results would not be flattering. Hope this helps. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take Care, Moises Salama MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Your nipples are located below your breast fold, therefore a lift is recommended. Without one, the implants would sit quite low on your chest, as they need to be centred behind the nipples. Therefore, you wouldn’t have any upper pole fullness.

Thank you for your question. It is possible to do only implant surgery without lifting (mastopexy), but the sagging will remain, so the shape might not be very good. If the current level of sagging is the same, it seems that you will be more satisfied with mastopexy. Even considering the scars.

There are 2 ways of doing breast implants from an anatomical standpoint. The implant can be placed above the muscle (subglandular) or under the muscle (submuscular). I prefer the placement of the implant under the muscle for many reasons, including ease and accuracy of mammography, stability of implant pocket, and natural feel of breast with implant tucked behind the muscle. For those reasons, I would recommend a breast lift with an implant in your case, given the significant amount of sagging shown in the photos. With submuscular placement, the breast tissue will be sagging below the implants, necessitating a lift. If you would like to have an implant without a lift "at all costs", then you may consider having the implant placed in the subglandular space. With this technique, you will avoid scars; however, the implant will droop down with the breasts since there is no muscle to hold it in place. The aesthetic result is definitely inferior to that of a submuscular implant coupled with a breast lift. It may also be felt under the skin, and it may compromise mammography reading. Ultimately, it is best if you consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in breast implants and lifts and discuss with them your wishes.

If you get an augmentation without a lift, one of two things are likely to happen.

1. A waterfall deformity: this is when the the breast tissue hangs below the implant. It looks strange and most women request a revision to fix it, which is usually a lift.

2. Some surgeons might offer placing very large implants to try to avoid a lift. The problem with this is they’ll likely be much larger than what you want and sit lower on the chest, with a wide cleavage. It generally gives the appearance of being “heavy” and squares off the torso. The heavy implants usually stretch the skin out more and many patients come back wanting a revision: smaller implants and a lift.

Unfortunately sometimes we have to choose between scars and shape/form. It’s a trade-off. If you choose not to have a lift, you will likely not be happy with your shape/form. If you choose to have a lift, you’ll have scars.

Having said this, scars on the breast usually heal quite well.

I hope this helps. Good luck!

I think you will have a better breast shape if you have a breast lift with your implants. It will make your breasts look more youthful. It will require more scars but it’s a worthwhile tradeoff. If you have implants alone, the implants will look full at the top and your breast will still hang below. Talk to a reputable board certified PS in your area so you can have an in person consultation to more accurately discuss the expectations in the different scenarios. Best of luck!

An evaluation in person would be required to properly determine your best options. Based on your photos you have an obvious laxity with you nipple/areolae lower than optimal. That said, it is possible that a properly selected implant more than likely places subfascial rather than subpectoral may provide you with an aesthetically pleasing result.

Please consult with an experienced board certified plastic surgeon whose aesthetics align with your own based on his or her Before and After gallery. Best of luck to you.

Many women do not like lifts because of the ugly scar associated with the traditional techniques. For that reason, an alternative was developed called 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 or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thanks for your question! I think it would be a mistake to put in an implant without a lift. You will have the size you want in clothing, but you would have a subpar result naked. With the right scar management and doctor, you can get barely noticeable scars. Good luck!