17 year old implants - do I need a lift with implant exchange? (photos)

Good afternoon,
Saline vs silicone is really up to your preference- you have had saline for a long time, they are less expensive than silicone, and so there really is no reason to change the type of implants you have unless you have done your research and have decided you prefer to go with silicone this time around. In terms of the lift, your breasts have held up well but I would at least consider the donut mastopexy option to tighten your skin and lift your nipple position- it leaves very little scarring but provides a nice uplift!

Dear sweetk3,
determining whether you need simply a breast augmentation versus a breast lift 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 a breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often still using implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift. To be sure a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine what the patient actually needs.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery