Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex? (photos)

Question

I went to my breast augmentation consultation and was told I needed a unilateral vertical lift and then silicone 450 implants to achieve what I'm looking for. The lift was a shock and I'm very apprehensive of the scaring resulting from the lift. I'm ready to just give up on the whole procedure (something I've wanted for years bc of my volume). Just want to make sure I'm getting the best information and that there is nothing else (less scars) that can be done.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question

Im assuming your asking about increasing our size or not. Overall, your breasts a[[ear to be perfectly normal (natural) if the size is bothering you then please read on.

After performing hundreds of breast augmentations, I have found that the size of implant best for you is dictated by your chest wall measurements. Once we determine that we can choose the profile based on what you want or need to achieve.  If you are seeking a natural look, then the diameter of the implant should be equal to or, more ideally, smaller than the width of your breast. The breast width is a measurement of how wide your breast is at the base, which should be measured at the level of the nipple. Choosing an implant that is smaller in diameter than your breast width will avoid the "side breast" fullness that is often associated with a more artificial appearance. Other than that, you should choose the implant based on volume, not on the dimensions of the implant. You should choose a board certified plastic surgeon that you trust to help guide you in this decision.

Silicone will give you a fullness at the top (upper pole fullness). Silicone implants come pre-filled with a silicone gel and are the softest implant available. They feel more natural, which makes them a good option for women with less natural breast tissue; but they require a larger incision. It may be more difficult to realize if this type of implant has ruptured, so it is important to monitor them with annual follow-up visits. Additionally, because this implant contains a more softer silicone (less cross-linked), if this implant should rupture, it may leak but only into the scar capsule formed. However, the newer silicone in these implants may not leak even when the implant shell is ruptured.

Anatomic gummy bear implants might be a good choice to give you a more natural look. These highly-sought-after, anatomic implants offer a look that more closely resembles the natural silhouette of a breast, and, therefore, are a very attractive option for individuals seeking a natural-looking, aesthetic primary breast augmentation. Additionally, these implants are an especially excellent option for patients undergoing restorative or corrective breast surgery because they provide more stability, shape, and reduced incidence of capsular contracture. Compared to other types of silicone gel implants, the silicone in the cohesive gel implant is more cross-linked; therefore, should the implant shell “rupture,” it maintains its shape and silicone does not leak.

During your breast augmentation consultation, you should feel the different types of implants available, and try on various implant sizers in front of a mirror to help you to get an idea of how you will look following the surgery. You should also bring pictures of the look you would like to achieve, as well as a favorite top to wear when trying on implant sizers. I also use a 3D imaging system to allow you to try on a variety of shapes and sizes. I prefer this method over adding volume due to implants being under the muscle.

We will also discuss the possibility of needing a lift along with an implant. This will depend on the amount of ptosis (nipple position) as it relates to your breast, inframammary crease and chest wall. Needing a lift or not will also determine where to place the scar for the incision.  In you case I do think you will need a lift at least on one side due to asymmetry.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam. Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.

best of luck!

Dr Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You might  need something as simple as a circumareola lift on the one side without the vertical component.

Christopher J. Schaffer, MD · Answer

You have asymmetric breasts, a very common anatomic variant.  There are many things that cause asymmetry:  volume, sagging, nipple/areolar size or position, fold position, pole constriction, etc.  In your case based on the pictures, you have inferior pole constriction and sagging that is slight on the right and worse on the left.  In order to maximize symmetry, which is a frequent goal of surgeons and patients, a lift was suggested on the left side.  In my practice I leave it up to the patient.  An augmentation alone has the advantage of less expense and less scarring, but the breasts remain asymmetric if  the asymmetry is not volume related, as it is with you.  I also remind patients that augmentation alone can augment asymmetries such as sagging and pole constriction.  So without the lift, your breasts may look more asymmetric after augmentation than they do now.  You can always get a lift later if you are not content with the outcome of an augmentation alone.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

The lift of the lower breast is necessary for better symmetry. If the asymmetry does nt bother you a dual plane breast augmentation can be done without the lift but be prepared that you may decide to lift the breast later because your asymmetry may seem more pronounced after enlargement.

Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex? (photos)

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Answer: Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex?

Answer: Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex?

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Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex?

Answer: Breast augmentation with unilateral mastoplex?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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