Will I need a lift with explant? (Photos)

Question

I had very small, tubular and asymmetrical breasts, so at the age of 19 I underwent breast augmentation. One implant is 275 cc and the other 315 cc. Since the surgery, I have gained approximately 10 kilograms, and my weight has been stable at this level for several years. Now, 11 years later, I am planning to have my implants removed. At the same time, I would like to correct my areolas, which have become significantly stretched over the years. I understand that it is very difficult to make an accurate assessment based solely on photos, but I would still appreciate your professional opinion. In your experience, is a breast lift likely to be necessary after explantation in a case like mine? If so, would a donut (periareolar) lift be sufficient, or would a full breast lift be more appropriate? My priority is not for my breasts to look “perfect,” but rather to look natural and normal, without appearing distorted or deformed after surgery. Thank you in advance for your time and insight.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your breasts are large and low on the chest wall. You would benefit from explantation and lift 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 (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained if not injured during your previous surgery. At the same time, the areolas can be reduced to the size you desire. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Emre Guvercin, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hi there &mdash; thank you for such a thoughtful question. Based on your history (tubular breasts, asymmetry, different implant sizes, weight changes, and stretched areolas), this is a very reasonable concern.In cases like yours, simple implant removal alone often leaves the breast looking flat or undefined, especially in the lower and upper poles. The goal isn’t perfection &mdash; it’s a natural, undistorted shape, and that’s where the Push-Up Lift combined with explantation becomes very helpful.Why a Push-Up Lift with explant makes sense in your caseIt allows 3-dimensional reshaping of the skin and remaining breast tissueUses your own tissue to fill the upper pole after implant removalCorrects areolar stretching and helps prevent re-widening over timeAddresses the residual mild tubular deformityPreserves breast tissue, sensation, and breastfeeding potentialAvoids an over-tight or “operated” lookWhat about scars?Instead of a full traditional lift, a minimal T-scar Push-Up Lift often provides:Better projection and shape than a donut lift aloneMore stable areola sizeA more natural breast footprint after explantA donut (periareolar) lift alone is usually not sufficient in cases with tissue deficiency and shape distortion &mdash; it tightens the skin, but does not rebuild breast form.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the photos it appears you have some size asymmetry with drooping more predominant on one side.  Since your implants are different sizes you may have more exaggerated asymmetry when the implants are removed.  This can be corrected with a lift.  You can also have your areola downsized during the procedure. The donut lift is not powerful enough to address both of these concerns.

Will I need a lift with explant? (Photos)

Answers (3)

More Breast Implant Removal Questions

Breast Implant Removal - will numbness and nipple pain improve?

How can I fix the results of my breast implant removal and lift? (Photos)

Not eligible for a lift or smaller implants. How will my breasts look after removal? What can I expect? (Photos)

Is it too soon for an explant? How long do I wait for possible autoimmune response symptoms to improve?

Bellasoma lift during explant procedure - can I achieve fullness and a bigger cup size?

Can I have Breast Implant Removal + fat transfer in the same procedure?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS