Breast lift and explant done as 2 separate procedures 3 months apart - would this give me the best results? (photos)

Question

I had bilateral 275 cc implants put in 8 years ago. Now I want to have a lift and ideally want to keep the existing implants. Distance from sternum to nipple is 29 cm. The doctor I consulted said he never does augmentation and lift together. Always as 2 separate procedures 3 months apart for best results. He also only uses a CRNA and not an anesthesiologist MD since he does both procedures under twilight sedation. What would give the best results in my case?

Paul E. Chasan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. A large portion of my practice is dedicated to revisionary breast surgery Over many years, I developed a technique called "Reductive Augmentation" in which an internal bra-capsulorrhaphy, mastopexy - lift, and removal of inferior pole breast tissue is performed. This procedure is particularly suitable for patients who would like a more round appearing breast and upper pole fullness. I have treated many patients with very similar breast issues as yours. I published this technique in the International Journal of Aesthetic Surgery in 2017.  In today's world with our current techniques, I seriously question the credentials of any surgeon who would separate performing a lift and augmentation.  Also concerning is the fact that he/she uses nurse anesthetists and is only performing this under a twilight type sedation.  I would definitely seek other opinions.  Best wishes to you,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear MRomeo,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you 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

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Both procedure can be done safely at the same time.  It does appear that you have a good deal of breast tissue from the one photo.  I would recommend using new implants since you are already there and the implants are 8 years old.  I would also recommend removing some breast tissue during the lift to prevent recurrent ptosis/drooping.  You dont necessarily have to go smaller with the breast reduction, the doctor can up the size of the implant with the same amount of breast tissue that is removed if you want to stay the same size.
Breast revision surgery can be complicated and I always recommend patients see a board certified plastic surgeon that has a great deal of experience with breast revision procedures.
I know some doctors use CRNA, but I prefer using a board certified anesthesiologist and performing such procedures under general anesthesia as I feel it is safer for the patient that way.

Hope that helps.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Do the lift first to see if that corrects all your issues. You may have enough tissue and no longer need/want an implant. If not, then get the implant.

Olivier Deigni, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and your picture. Given that you already have implants and want to keep them, it seems you would benefit from a breast lift only. Unless you are having issues with your implants, there is no need to remove them. Best wishes!

Breast lift and explant done as 2 separate procedures 3 months apart - would this give me the best results? (photos)

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Breast lift and explant done as 2 separate procedures 3 months apart - would this give me the best results? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Breast lift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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