4 year old implants - Do I look like I need a lift or new implants? (Photos)

Question

I had implants placed 4 years ago, shape has always been a little off but seems to be progressing. Should I get a lift or new implants?

Suleyman Koken, MD · Answer

It seems you may have a waterfall deformity, where the breast tissue has descended over the implant, causing sagging. This can be corrected with a breast lift (mastopexy). However, as with any lift procedure, the breasts will become slightly smaller due to the removal of excess tissue.
If you wish to maintain your current size or increase it, the lift can be combined with larger implant replacement during the same surgery.
Best, Süleyman Köken

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Hi, Thank you for your inquiry! We here at Mays Plastic surgery would love to sit down for a consult to discuss your concerns.  A breast lift, and adding volume, whether its fat transfer to your breasts or implants.  Schedule a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Polite710069,

I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

When the breast shape continues to change years after augmentation, it is usually related more to skin and tissue laxity than to the implants themselves. In this situation, simply replacing the implants does not correct the issue and may even add more weight.
A breast lift is typically the most effective solution, as it reshapes and supports the breast tissue, repositions the nipple, and allows the implants to sit in a more natural position. If you are otherwise happy with your implant size, a lift alone may be enough. If you also want a size or profile change, a lift can be combined with implant exchange.
A lift, with or without implant adjustment, is the option that will give you the most balanced and lasting improvement
&mdash; Güray Yesiladali, MD

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

From the pictures posted, results seem ok. You can always review with your original surgeon. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

You probably have different options, but it is hard to give you any guidance without an exam.  It seems new implants would not help. It may be a little early to consider a lift, but depending on the exam, perhaps you have in excess of breast tissue at the lower pole which may be repositioned or removed with a lift.  Your nipple position is relatively good but may also be managed with a lift.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! Based solely on the photos, if you are happy with the size, cleavage, etc., I might just recommend a lower pole mastopexy to tighten up the lower part of the breast. It seems that your breast tissue is falling off the implant. However, if you would like bigger, a more projecting implant may help correct that a bit too. Good luck!

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

A waterfall deformity occurs as the native/natural breast ages and descends with time while the implant remains in a more elevated position. This can lead to a loss of alignment.

A mastopexy/lift can be helpful in re-suspending the tissue. You do not necessarily have to change the implants (as they are not the problem). However, it is important to remember that the lift will shrink the native breast somewhat and you may choose to offset the loss with a larger implant.

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

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on these photos, breast lift with or without removal of implants should be considered. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon is recommended. Good luck.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your implants are too large for your chest wall and you can see your breasts are touching in the midline.  I recommend smaller implants, plication and a lift procedure.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

4 year old implants - Do I look like I need a lift or new implants? (Photos)

Answers (14)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Weird shape of breasts and very large areolas after periareoral Mastopexy with augmentation. Can this be improved? (Photos)

I am 19 with severe sagging breasts, is this normal? What are my options? (Photos)

Type 1 Diabetes and breast augmentation after care - what is the health criteria for safety and the expected recovery time?

Pseudoptosis after explant - Is there any possibility subglandular smallish implants could work without needing a lift? (Photos)

Is Alloclae an option for breast augmentation?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS