Devastated by my results. Where to go from here? (Photo)

Question

1st surgery was augmentation and supposed to be lollipop lift but surgeon decided the areola reduction was enough. Complete fail after only 2 months. Second surgery was areola reduction and full anchor lift and results did not last more than a few months. It’s obvious I have compromised skin, should he not have realized after first surgery and used a mesh support? Looking at a THIRD surgery (with a new surgeon). I want the implants out. I’m absolutely devastated by my experience and results.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. I'm really sorry to hear about the challenges you've faced with your breast surgeries. It sounds like you've been through a difficult journey, and it's understandable that you're feeling devastated by the results so far. Your experience is a reminder that some breast surgeries, especially those involving lifts or augmentation, can be complex, and not all patients achieve the desired outcome. Please see the attached video to answer your question. It’s clear that you’ve faced significant challenges with your breast surgeries, and the issues with skin quality and lifting failure have added complexity to your situation. The fact that you want to move forward with explant surgery is an important step, and working with a skilled, experienced surgeon will be crucial in getting the results you desire. Take your time to find the right expert, and be kind to yourself as you navigate this next chapter in your journey.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

This problem is unfortunately relatively common in breast surgery. The issue is skin that has lost its elasticity, normally following either childbearing or weight loss. The sequence that you described, with a peri-areolar lift followed by a wise pattern lift, is a common one that should have addressed skin laxity. While it is easy in hindsight to say that mesh should have been utilized at the second procedure, it would not be standard of care and could have potential complications such as infection, overcorrection, and other issues. In terms of whether or not to remove your current implants, this is best determined by an in person exam with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine if the implants can be truly supported with mesh or if it is best to remove them permanently.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

You started with large breast and addition of implants did not help. It would be the best to remove implants, perform small breast reduction (to eliminate heavy breast and implants which create sagging), and leave it for a while. If you are still in need of augmentation, small implants can be added later on.  I am not sure that any support by means of mesh would be sufficient with such a heavy breast tissue and  breast skin like yours? Although you may have low positioned breast, your areolas should be placed higher than you had it after two lifts!  Hope this helps. Good luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of your experiences.  From your photos it appears you will need a revision of your lift, with or without implants.  Mesh should help to support the tissues and hopefully get you a result that you are happy with.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

The surgeon should have been able to assess of your needs for a extra support and the results expected should definitely be more permanent. The mesh support offers great results. These scaffolds promote the growth of natural tissue, which will gradually absorb the scaffold within 12 to 18 months. The end result is natural tissue that creates a firm and youthful breast shape.

I’ve personally treated lots of patients over the years who unfortunately had the same problem but it can be fixed with a revision surgery.

I’ve personally treated lots of patients over the years who unfortunately had the same problem  but it can be fixed with a revision surgery.

Devastated by my results. Where to go from here? (Photo)

Answers (5)