Will breast implants lower my breasts even further? (Photos)

Question

I’m trying to get breast implants. I want my inframammary fold to sit where my nipples currently are. Is there a possibility breast implants will project it enough, so my breasts don’t fall disproportionately low? Or do I need a breast lift or nipple repositioning as a result?

Anshu Gupta, MD · Answer

Your current inframammary fold sits almost at the level of your nipples, meaning that your entire breast &mdash; including the crease &mdash; is positioned lower on your chest. In this case, breast augmentation alone can enhance projection and volume, but it won’t significantly raise the position of your breast on the chest wall. The breast tissue and nipple will remain at the same relative position unless additional procedures are performed.
A breast lift (mastopexy) is typically recommended for patients with significant nipple ptosis (sagging), where the nipple falls below the breast crease. Since in your situation the entire breast &mdash; including the fold &mdash; is low, a lift may not be necessary or even helpful, as it is not designed to raise the entire breast mound on the chest.
Instead, careful implant selection and surgical technique are key. It's very important that your surgeon preserves the current inframammary fold and does not lower it further. With the right implant and placement, you can achieve a fuller, more lifted appearance without the need for a lift or nipple repositioning.
Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in cases like yours to ensure the best approach is taken for your anatomy and goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Warmhearted100405,

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

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! For a primary surgery, I would suggest a straightforward breast augmentation. You may want to raise the nipple areola down the road, but I would get a stable breast mound first. Good luck!

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Fold position is an anatomic landmark for the base of the breadth. As we age, skin can stretch and there can be some descent. The laxity and excess can be used to lift the breast and redefine/restore its position on the chest,

Based on your photos,  there can be the perception that your fold is lower due to the deficiency of volume. That being said, you do not appear to have sufficient laxity to draw the breast mound upwards to re-establish the fold at a higher position.

I would recommend beginning with an augmentation. A narrow width higher volume device is preferred.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

The distance between your nipples and the inframammary folds are very short. There are no great or even good ways to change this. Seek a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she can provide options and expected outcomes after a thorough examination.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants, if desired. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

In your case nipple to IMF distance is very short; it has to be lowered with placement of any implant in order for nipple to end up on the top of the breast mount. In person consultation with an experienced board certified plastic surgeon is recommended. Good luck.

Alper Eskalen, MD · Answer

Hi, I’m Dr.Eskalen from Istanbul/Turkey.My suggestion for you is making a 3D simulation to understand your expectations.This 3D simulation can also be online via a specific App, which we use for all of our patients. I hope my message helps you. 
Best regards,Dr.Eskalen.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the submitted photos it doesn't appear you need a breast lift.  I encourage you to begin by visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon for a consultation.  During this important meeting your surgeon will measure your breasts (this is different than bra sizing) and discuss your goals for surgery with you.  You'll also learn what you can expect in terms of results from the procedure. I've included a video I hope you find helpful

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You do not need a breast lift nor to try and move your nipples. Once your breast is stretched with implants, you will have better positioning of your nipples.

Will breast implants lower my breasts even further? (Photos)

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