A lift with implants or only slightly larger, high profile implants to give appearance of a lift? (Photo)

Question

I'm currently deciding between a breast lift with implants (400cc) or only high profile implants (420cc to 460cc) to avoid extra scarring a lift would give. Would the bigger implants just add to the 'perkiness' problem over time? Am I better off going with my first option? Thank you!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures.  
 I think that it is likely that you will benefit from breast lifting as well as breast augmentation surgery.  Based on your photographs, I would be concerned that you will not be pleased with the long-term outcome achieved with breast augmentation surgery only. 
 Generally, I do not suggest that you utilize larger breast implants (than you will feel comparable with physically or psychosocially) in the attempt to avoid the need for breast lifting.   
Of course, breast augmentation/lifting surgery is a more complicated procedure (and more complication prone);  careful selection of plastic surgeon and careful communication of goals will be key.  Furthermore, you will need to carefully consider the trade-offs (such as additional scarring) associated with breast lifting versus the upsides briefly discussed above.
 My best advice: select your plastic surgeon carefully. Make sure that he/she has significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, communicate your goals carefully, as  well.   I find that the use of goal photographs and computer imaging are very helpful during this communication phase. Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve your goals.  Best wishes.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi diamond93
  
Determining whether you need simply a breast implant versus a breast lift or both 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 breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often use an implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift. 
  
Also, 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, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Based on your photos- in my opinion - you're NOT a candidate for breast implants -alone. I would seriously consider a standard breast lift/mastopexy. Whether or not you would benefit from implants as well- should best be discussed and evaluated during your in person evaluation/consultation with an experienced Board Certified PS

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  With that
being said, based on your photographs, the best shape and contour could be
achieved with an implant and a breast lift. Your nipple sits below the
inframammary fold and without a lift in addition to the implant, this will not
have a natural shape.  A breast lift with an implant can result in a very
nice shape if good technique is used.  The size, profile, and shape of
the implant is based on your desired breast size/shape, your chest wall
measurements, and soft tissue quality.  This decision should
be based on a detailed discussion with equal input from both you
and your surgeon.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Leo McCafferty, MD · Answer

This is a very good question, and based on your pictures, I suspect you would need both a breast lift and an implant.  Simply choosing a larger implant will not add much towards lifting your breast but actually could work against you by causing a sagging over time.  I certainly understand your wish to avoid extra scarring associated with a lift.  For this reason, you might consider having the implants placed first, allowing the tissues to settle, and then performing the lift secondarily.  This might allow a lift with a shorter scar, or you might be surprised and feel very happy with the implant alone.  Again, this is a great question and I always like to take the path that will not burn any bridges.

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A lift with implants or only slightly larger, high profile implants to give appearance of a lift? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast lift with implants

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Answer: Lift or implants alone?

Answer: Lift or implants alone?

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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.