Are implants a good idea after a botched breast reduction? (Photos)

Question

In 2007, when I was 16, I had a breast reduction going from a DDD cup to Large C/D. Although I was very happy with the relief that came with baring less weight on my back and shoulders, ultimately I regret my decision. I do like the shape of my breasts, but I feel as though too much may have been removed, as they lack volume on the top and I can actually pull loose skin away from my breasts. In addition to that, the scar I was left with from the anchor incision is on the bottom of my breast

Susan D. Vasko, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, it is possible to have breast implants placed if you had a previous breast reduction and are no longer happy with your post operative breast size and shape. You can discuss a scar revision with your board certified plastic surgeon as well.

Rodger Shortt, FRCSC · Answer

There are likely a few great options available to you to improve the appearance of your breasts.  This includes: scar revision, tightening procedure to make your breast perkier (mastopexy), or an augmentation. This can be done with an implant or with fat transfer.  There is no perfect answer, so I suggest you speak to your plastic surgeon so they can go over the pros and cons and help you make the best decision for yourself.Hope that helps.Rodger Shortt, Oakville Plastic Surgeon

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

It is not unusual to lose upper pole fullness after breast reduction. Placing an implant will give you more of the upper pole fullness along with tightening the skin envelope slightly more.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Far more important than the technique is the skill and experience of your plastic surgeon. Choose your surgeon rather than the technique and let them explain why one technique may be better than another.  See the below link on some suggestions on finding the most qualified Plastic Surgeon for a Breast Augmentation Always insist on a board certified plastic surgeon.

Robert Sleightholm, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks so much for your photos and question. It's very difficult to make any determinations based on the photos provided. I strongly recommend an in-depth consultation with a cosmetic plastic surgeon in order to assess and make recommendations based on your consult. Please keep in mind that  your breast reduction was done 10 years ago and unfortunately, as we age, we continue to lose volume and skin elasticity to our breasts just like we do in other areas such as the face. The body changes dramatically over a 10 year span. Implants will provide some fullness on the top of the breast but keep in mind that adding an implant will not correct ptosis (droopiness). You may require a breast lift/breast augment combination while addressing any scars from previous surgery at that time. We wish you all the best!!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Implants might give you more fullness, but if the weight of the breasts were a problem in the past, the weight of the implants may cause the same thing.

Todd B. Koch, MD · Answer

I would revise the scars you are unhappy with and breast augmentation at the same setting.  One of the problems with breast reduction surgery is poor shape and loss of upper pole fullness.  A breast augmentation will solve these issues.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

What you are considering is not that unusual.  In other words, it is not unusual for patients to undergo breast reduction earlier in life and then move ahead with a breast augmentation surgery later in life.  If you have specific concerns regarding your current breast shape and/or symmetry,  it is possible that your plastic surgeon will be able to help you with a revision of the breast reduction to improve your overall outcome.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 concerns and goals carefully, as discussed above. Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve your goals.  
Best wishes.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

Your reduction looks pretty good. It is NORMAL to loose basically all the upper pole fullness afterwards over time. It is not uncommon for patients to place an implant later on (often with some more lift/tightening) in order to regain at least upper pole fullness if not volume as well.

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry.
You may be an excellent candidate for breast augmentation surgery. Exact end results and cup sizes are usually quite difficult to calculate as everyone has a different starting point.
It is important to have an in-person assessment regarding your concerns as it is difficult to determine virtually.
There are many different factors that go into choosing a breast implant size which will correspond with your body dimensions while concurrently achieving your aesthetic results. Some of these factors are: Implant size (CC's), Implant profile (Low, Moderate, High), Placement of the implant (Subglandular vs. Dual Plane) etc. We utilize smooth round cohesive silicone gel 'gummy bear' implants for the best results.
During a consultation your aesthetic goals are heard and taken into account with the measurements of your breasts and the integrity of your tissue, as well as level of ptosis (sag). From here we collectively can find your 'perfect fit'. You are able to try out sizers and different implants in our office such that you can get an idea of what size you would be post-operation. We also offer Crisalix 3D plastic surgery virtual simulator during our in-person and virtual consultations to preview potential results. After your consultation, you will receive your very own implant sizers to take home with you (at a small cost) whether or not you decide to go forward with your procedure.
I usually recommend that my patients stop smoking, take vitamin C daily, and avoid aspirin/ibuprofen and vitamin E 3 weeks prior to surgery. I specialize in the 24-hour Recovery method which minimizes trauma to the breast and decreases pain post-operatively.
We encourage you to look at our website and Instagram (drkaraplasticsurgery) for lots of before and after pictures!
Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.
During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery.
We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

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