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?

Ira H. Rex lll, 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).

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the photos it appears you are a good candidate for a lift.  This would remove excess skin and reshape the breast for a refreshed look.  You can elect to keep the current size implants or exchange them.  Simply exchanging the implants without a lift would not be recommended. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

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

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

Answers (8)

Answer: Considering options

Answer: Considering options

Answer: Breast uplift for waterfall deformity correction

Answer: Breast uplift for waterfall deformity correction

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

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

Answers (8)

Answer: Considering options

Answer: Considering options

Answer: Breast uplift for waterfall deformity correction

Answer: Breast uplift for waterfall deformity correction

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.