Do Internal Bras really offer more support and lift?

Question

Hi, I'm considering a breast reduction and lift. One of the consultants I've seen mentioned the benefits of an internal bra for extra support and lift. What are your views on this? And in your experience, are there added risks?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend for reduction is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. In my experience, I use the technique where I support the internal parenchyma of the breast during the Breast Uplift or Breast Reduction surgery. 
You have to ask the consultant a question what exactly he means by using the internal bra- is he planning to insert a mesh or will he use a specific suspension technique? Because the term 'Internal Bra' can be interpreted in many different ways.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The internal bra procedure involves placement of an internal sling of material to act as a hammock under the implant where it is exposed in the inferior aspect of the pectoralis muscle. There are a number of different materials that can be used ranging from human dermis, absorbable or non-absorbable mesh. 
Any treatment that uses mesh, whether it be a breast lift or another form of fascia repair, comes with the risk of infection, seroma, pain, scaffold migration, wound dehiscence, bleeding, hematoma, and inflammation.

James Murphy, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

This sort of device has been around for many years and, whilst the concept may have an appeal, many surgeons (including me) have felt that the risk of complications outweighed any potential benefit. My biggest worry would be the consequences of a relatively minor infection taking hold with a foreign body, resulting in a devastating effect on the breast tissue. Given that other established surgical give accurate, long lasting results, I have never really been tempted to adopt this measure

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

An internal bra means different things to different surgeons. I’ve never used it. If it costs a lot more which it would if using a dermal matrix, I wouldn’t bother. I’ve been performing breast surgery for over thirty years and I’ve never though the notion of an internal bra was necessary, especially if it costs a lot more,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nat45671,
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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

At internal bra with mesh does give some extra support to sagging tissue, especially if the weight of an implant is being added. Stretched out sagging tissue never holds well.

Do Internal Bras really offer more support and lift?

Answers (7)

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