Would large teardrop implants give sufficient lift? (Photo)

Question

I feel I am borderline needing a lift and because I can scar badly I am slightly hestitate about the lift scars. If I do have to have one I’d go for the peri areola lift but I’ve seen some images of ladies with “sagging” and they’ve had teardrop implants, quite big and have given them a lot of lift?

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Patient concerns regarding the appearance of their breasts can typically be divided in two pools: volume, ptosis (droop). The procedures to address these issues are as different as the issues themselves. However, these concerns are not mutually exclusive (some want smaller less droopy breasts and others want larger less droopy breasts).
There are two factors which can help to answer the question of which surgery will deliver the most satisfying result: mastopexy, augmentation or both. Patients must first consider the position of the NAC (nipple areolar complex i.e. the pigmented portion of the breast) as it relates to the inframammary crease. If the nipples are at or below the level of the crease the patient may benefit from a lift or mastopexy. The breast lift is designed to elevate sagging breasts to a more youthful position. It also helps to reshape and tighten the skin of the breasts. This is typically accomplished via a periareolar (around the nipple) incision with or without a vertical incision.
Mastopexy is an effective way to address sagging breast, however, the changes which accompany weight loss or pregnancy can also decrease volume of the breasts. When a woman wants the volume restored, or increased, a breast augmentation will also be needed in conjunction with mastopexy. Augmentation can help restore the volume loss which is well known to women following children. There are a number of options available to women considering augmentation ranging from size and implant type to access incision.   
A breast augmentation alone may be appropriate if ptosis is mild. If the patient is comfortable with the natural appearance of the breasts but desires them to be larger, a breast augmentation alone is the right procedure.  Augmenting significantly ptotic or sagging breasts tends to magnify the problem. In these cases, a mastopexy performed in conjunction with an augmentation is preferred.
Based upon your photos, you have mild ptosis/pseudoptosis. You would likely benefit from a periareolar lift. However, if scarring is a concern the procedures can be staged. If you are content with the appearance of an augmentation alone, you can forego the lift.
There is a procedure for every problem. To determine which technique is right for you, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS). Patients should discuss their concerns with their physicians in order to make an educated decision.

Jon Kurkjian, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.
There are several variables to be considered when answering this question. It is always difficult to make a diagnosis on photos alone, but you do appear to be a good candidate for a breast lift with smooth round implants. When you meet with a board certified plastic surgeon, they will perform a set of measurements that will help determine the type of lift needed and the size of implant. Another variable that needs to be discussed is what you are wanting. If you are wanting a fuller upper pole to your breast, then a round implant will be necessary.  If you are just wanting the breasts to be a little perkier and don't mind the size, then only a lift is necessary. I hope this is helpful

Marc J. Salzman, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. You hav ewhat we would call glandular ptosis in that, while the nipple is still above the crease the entire breast has moved downward on the chest wall. I don't think a vertical lift with the incision you're talking about would be necessary. You are on the borderline between a peri areolar mastopexy and placeemnt of a shaped implant that is taller than it is wide. I have had good success using Sientra classic base shaped implant or the Allergan 410 FF or FX shaped implants. You might want to discuss the pros and cons of using textured shaped implants in light of the new data on ALCL. You should discuss these relative risks with your plastic surgeon. Hope that's helpful.

Would large teardrop implants give sufficient lift? (Photo)

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Would large teardrop implants give sufficient lift? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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