Can I go back to weightlifting/powerlifting with sub-muscular implants? What placement should I have?

Great question!I will have to politely disagree with the last person and say that a study at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation actually looked at pectoralis strength both before and after sub muscular placement and found that there was NOT a decrease in overall strength.  However, that study also did not look at powerlifters or professional athletes and so there might be a bit of a bias there.  That being said, I work with a large number of IFBB pro's and professional athletes and have been involved in the competitions myself.  In my experience, you should be able to go back to full capacity at least by 3 months.  I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACS PCEOBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Dear kcammie,I almost always place implants submuscular. It lowers the rate of capsular contracture significantly. In addition, it looks much more natural because the muscle provides covering over the implant so its not as round on the top. I've also noticed the implants drop less over time when they are protected under the muscle.Breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. 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 a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I would suggest placing the implants above the muscle. This will avoid the possibility of having an animation deformity when flexing or working out. This will also avoid the potential of the pocket becoming larger from the repeated flexion of the pectoralis muscle. Good luck!