My boobs sag and are empty since I lost weight. What are my options? (Photo)

Thank you for your question! It is very common for breasts to lose their volume and/or result in sagging after weight loss. An implant proportionate to your height and weight will provide you with more volume along with rounder, perkier breasts. Once you visit a skilled plastic surgeon, they will discuss the different sizes and type of implant that will best suite you. They will also take measurements and determine whether or not a breast lift is needed.

A breast lift may be a very good option to lift and reshape breasts, but an exam would be necessary to make that determination.  Breast fat transfer can produce one cup size increase in most patients.  If you want more than one cup, implants would likely be a better choice.Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss fat grafting and implants and then decide what is best for you to achieve the natural looking breasts you have in mind.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Hi handymanstu,

Breast implant type and size selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion of the pros and cons of the various types and sizes. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. 

When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.

Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.

Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.

You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery