Will implant exchange fix sagging saline implants? is "tacking" an alternative to a lift? What is causing sagging? (Photo)

Question

I got 450cc under the muscle Saline implants almost 8 years ago when i was an A cup 5'7 118 pounds. i have since had 3 kids. my boobs are so embarrassing to look at now. they are super saggy and move weirdly in different positions. can i go smaller with implant exchange? i want big B small C cups.. i read about internal sutures a technique called tacking. would i be able to have that done? i hate the anchor scar and don't want that but will if i have to. any other suggestions or input?

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Based on the degree of sagging and the position of the implants you don't realistically have an alternative to a full breast lift. Internal sutures (capsulorrhaphy will help hold the implants up, and that needs to be done also. That by itself will not adjust the skin envelope or change the nipple position.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

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.  Implants are not lifetime devices.  8% fail within the first year and 30% fail within six years.  Fat transfers are permanent and incorporated into the body.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Donald R. Revis Jr, MD · Answer

Good morning!
I think you do need a full anchor type lift, along with smaller implants, and in going smaller I would perform the Original Internal Bra, my strong permanent internal suturing technique that you are referring to as tacking. It basically makes the pockets smaller to match your new implant size, and it also moves them higher up your chest wall so your breasts don't appear so low and long. However, the Original Internal bra only adjusts the pocket size and placement, it cannot take up the excess skin or correct your nipple position, which is why the lift is also a necessity.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear monster6,
my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity. 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

Bruce K. Smith, MD · Answer

As you have demonstrated, pregnancy changes the breasts by stretching the skin. In addition, over time, your pectoralis muscle has pushed the implant down and out from under the pectoralis muscle. A full lift, (unfortunately with a full inverted T scar pattern) would be required to give you the result that you are desiring. "Tacking" without mastopexy would not give you a satisfactory result because too much skin has been stretched and needs to be removed.

Will implant exchange fix sagging saline implants? is "tacking" an alternative to a lift? What is causing sagging? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Fixing sagging breasts

Answer: Fixing sagging breasts

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Revision

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Will implant exchange fix sagging saline implants? is "tacking" an alternative to a lift? What is causing sagging? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Fixing sagging breasts

Answer: Fixing sagging breasts

Browse related questions

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.