Would a "shoelace breast cast" only work for breast augmentations performed with an inframammary fold incision?

Although placing a shoelace breast cast under the breast at the IMF may be something that was suggested, I have never used that method.  Recommend that you contact the Orange County plastic surgeon who uses this method underneath the IMF to ask if it is applicable to implants placed through the areola.

While not common practice in plastic surgery, the shoelace breast cast has been used in attempts to even out the lower breast fold. It has been used with all incisions and approaches.

There is actually a strap that is made specifically for this. It’s cloth elastic and Velcro. Your surgeon probably even has them in the office.

Dear mik5991,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. If you have implant malposition, it can probably be improved in the early postoperative period. Later, you will need a surgery in order to correct it. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after 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

I saw a paper on this subject at the Atlanta Breast Meeting 3-4 years ago. Using a shoelace like band or a very stiff underwire bra a low implant could be elevated and the capsule heal in the correct location. However, I think this correction had to start fairly early post op at least in the first month or so. After that the capsule is too mature. However, it does not hurt to try. It can always be fixed with a surgical revision. Good luck. 

I appreciate your concerns and frustrations, but I have never heard of using a shoelace to correct breast implant mail position. Photographs and more information about your breast augmentation would also help to provide a more detailed answer. Early high implant malposition can sometimes be corrected with an elastic strap or band which is worn along the upper breast poles. Sometimes low implant malposition can be corrected with a surgical bra and taping techniques to maintain a higher position. However, malposition that occurs 6 months or later after surgery requires a surgical revision to correct the position problem. Consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon to explore of the best options for you. Good luck.

The incision does not determine the pocket for the implant. some implants placed behind the muscle are initially high, but do drop with time. If your surgery is fairly recent, please discuss your concerns with your surgeon. If your surgery has been several months or years ago, no shoelace or other clothing will make much difference except to maybe irritate your breasts.

While this technique can be used in the early healing process, the further out you are from surgery, the less effective, in my opinion.   A full consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon should help you delineate what is possible and best for you to correct the areas of concern.  Best wishes. WirthPlasticSurgery.com

The shoelace breast cast can work for breast augmentations of all incisions however it is only effective when used during the early healing phase after your breast surgery. If your breasts have healed and appear asymmetric, then you will more likely require a revision surgery to correct the pockets and improve your symmetry. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD 
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

I have read about this approach but have never tried it. I saw a presentation by Dr. Dan Mills in Newport Beach CA with good results.  You may want to contact him. Good luck.