Why did my breast lift not work? (Photos)

Question

Why do I have to pay for a lift again when I didn’t get the assured result the first time? 26 with no children. Breast lift with implants December 20-6. At postop my breasts weren’t lifted my surgeon said to give the implants time to settle. I went back last month & he said I need another lift. I asked why the first one didn’t work he said it was my skin elasticity’s fault. If that’s the case, why will a second one work? I paid $10,700 for a lift I didn’t get now less than 2 years later I’m wondering if the $5900 he quoted this time is worth it? Photos of postop & today THANK YOU!

John J. Corey, MD · Answer

I think there may be a combination of factors at play. First of all a breast lift and implants is a very difficult operation. There are a lot of moving parts and it’s really hard to predict how some exactly someone’s tissue will react  and how they are implant will settle. I understand your concern because that picture is not how you or doctors want your results to turn out. I think your implants are holding in the right spot but your breast tissue seems to be more elastic than usual. Now having said that I think your best chance is for you to have as a little breast tissue left as possible (more tissue equals more droop.) That is why I favor more upper pedicle lifts and discard much of the lower part of the breast.I think you do you should try and fix this and I also believe your doctor should work with you. Ask your doctor the game plan and how to avoid this again…

Michael Burgdorf, MD, MPH · Answer

A breast lift with augmentation can be one of the most challenging procedures (both for the patient to undergo and for the surgeon to achieve the desired results).  There are many factors at play that may effect the results. Initial stretchability of the skin (having children can impact this, but so can fluctuations in weight and/or initial shape of the breasts), size of the implant, how tight skin is pulled effecting tension on the scars, amount of breast tissue, etc. It does appear that the implants are holding in a nice position, but that the skin has stretched past the bottom of the implants. This "residual droop" is one of the most difficult components to anticipate. Since this is a push/pull operation ( implants "pushing" out, while the breast lift "pulls" the tissue back in), there is a fine line to walk to get the perfect results. One newer component that might be helpful could include the use of Galatea scaffold that can strengthen the lower aspect of the tissue as this scaffold is reabsorbed  and broken down by the body into carbon dioxide and water. It has allowed the expected "residual droop" to be more regulated and controlled with more consistent results. Hope that helps

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your
results are typical of the lollipop incision. The lollipop technique excises
skin below the areola and pulls it together in an attempt to elevate the
breast.  The skin envelope does not
create upward forces that are adequate, especially if you add the weight of an
implant.  The better technique is The
Bellesoma Method.  This technique uses
the pectoralis major muscle to actively elevate your breasts.  At this time, I recommend explantation 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
and the ability to breast feed are maintained, if not injured during your
previous surgery.  At the same time or
later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Joshua Kreithen, MD · Answer

Looking at your before and after photos, there is definitely a significant improvement.  Certainly, your expectations haven't been met.  Perhaps your could request to just raise the areolas under local anesthesia, which might significantly reduce the cost of the revision.  Hope this helps and good luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jack711,Every surgeon has a revision policy. Many involve reduced or even no fees for the surgeon (depending on the situation) while the patient may still be responsible for facility (the use of the operating room, staff, and supplies) and anesthesia fees. Best to go back to your surgeon and have a talk about your concerns again. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Why did my breast lift not work? (Photos)

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Why did my breast lift not work? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast Lift

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