Breast implant ruptured - can I achieve the same results without a lift? (photos)

Question

My right breast implant ruptured. I really do not want to get a full breast lift because I’m scared of the vertical scar an anchor lift will leave, I’m also happy with where my breast sit on chest now (the one with the implant) would I be able to achieve the same result and avoid any type of lift?

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

Based on these photos, I would highly recommend a lift (anchor type to address the vertical and horizontal skin excess.) Regardless, these are all my own opinions based on the photos provided. I would recommend seeing a plastic surgeon who has great training and experience in aesthetic breast surgery.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Your nipples are very low on your breast mounds. Most would say that the aesthetic appearance would be better by having both breasts lifted. If however, you are happy with your appearance, you might begin by just having the ruptured implant or both implants replaced and reevaluating your condition.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your breasts are too low on the chest wall and the implants are pointing downward. The technique I recommend is explantation with 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 or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gorgeous162816,
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

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

'would I be able achieve the same result' as what? You're deflated breast? Do you mean if you took you implants out? Or if you replace it with another implant?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If you don’t mind that your nipples are a little low simple replacement if the implant would work just fine. It is certainly the simple way to go. It can always be converted to a lift later on if you desire

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

Yes you should be able to achieve the same result that you are used to if you replace the implant.  However you need to do it quickly so that the scar tissue capsule around the implant doesn't shrink and contract too much, because if that happens, then your breasts will look asymmetric.  If you don't want the lift and are ok with the current look, then tell your surgeon that you only want to replace the implants.  Best of luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You can just ask your surgeon to exchange the implant and avoid the lift if you are not concerned with the sagging. Bras correct sagging.

Libby Copeland-Halperin, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos. If your breast implant has ruptured, it is important to speak with a plastic surgeon to discuss removal of the implant. It may be possible to replace the implant without performing a lift, but it is difficult to say without performing a thorough history and physical exam. A breast augmentation can be performed with silicone or saline implants, and it is also possible to enlarge your breasts using your own fat without implants. Using this technique, fat is taken from another part of your body, such as the stomach or hips, to increase your breast size without the need for artificial implants. A breast lift can be performed in several ways, including with an incision just around your nipple areolar complex or with a vertical component and/or horizontal incision, depending on how much of a lift you need. I perform these procedures as an outpatient in our fully accredited ambulatory surgery facility with IV sedation administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. I suggest you make an appointment to discuss your options with a fully trained plastic surgeon.

Ian MacArthur, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for your question, I'm sorry to hear about the implant rupture. The ruptured implant needs to be removed, because at this point it is a failed medical device. This may be covered under warranty from the implant company. If you are happy with the position of your breasts you do not need to undergo a lift of any kind. A lift would, however, raise the breasts and areolas to create a more youthful, fuller appearance. All the best.

Breast implant ruptured - can I achieve the same results without a lift? (photos)

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