Breast Reduction D to a B cup. Previously BL 10 yrs ago w “Mesh Bra”. Is this still possible?

Question

I made the mistake of getting had by a dr in Florida saying all I needed was a mesh bra and donut lift. Lasted 6 months. What I really wanted was a reduction. I don’t care about the scars anymore. It’s been 10+ years and I’ve been wishing I went for the full reduction instead. Is this still possible? Safe? I want as small as possible. I’m healthy, early 40s, very active.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

Further procedures are an option. You can still get a nice result despite previous procedures - though complication rates can be higher. It would be nice if you had information about the type of mesh used but not required.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hi, Thank you for the question. 
Based on your photos, you appear to be a good candidate for a breast reduction surgery, during which excess breast tissue is removed, the breast is lifted and nipple/areola is typically made smaller. It is easiest to think of breast reduction as including the breast lift. 
There are two main techniques and scar patterns for breast reduction: Inverted-T (Anchor) or Lollipop. The decision to proceed with one technique vs. the other depends on the amount of excess breast tissue present and your surgeon's preference/experience. 
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Breast Reduction surgeries to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. 
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The best way to determine what your breast size should be with respect to your anatomy and give true advice would be a discussion with a board certified plastic surgeon. Not only does proportion depend upon the aesthetic balance of your breasts with your shoulders, waist, hips, and buttocks, but also upon your objectives, lifestyle, soft tissue quality, muscular anatomy, and long-term concerns. 
A breast reduction also includes a breast lift. There is also a limit to how small you can go due to tissue that needs to be retained for the nipple/areola to maintain a good blood and sensory nerve supply. A PS cannot guarantee that a breast will be a specific cup size after reduction. Very large breasts rarely are reduced by more than two or three "cup" sizes. I never promise a cup size because bras manufacturers do not follow a standard size.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained, if not injured during your previous surgery.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Donut lifts don’t work very well because they can’t lift your nipple enough. You should look into the lollipop type of lift. It entails more scars but it will give your breast a much nicer shape. An implant would be needed as well for upper pole fullness.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Barebones33,
breast reduction is best suited for women who wish to decrease the size of their breasts. While there are different techniques used to perform this surgery, I prefer the vertical incision (lollipop pattern) breast reduction technique instead of the anchor scar pattern, which reduces more noticeable scarring than usual. I also use a SAFE liposuction technique to reduce additional fat around the stubborn axilla area and bra line. This way, my patients are achieving beautiful results with minimal incisions which reduces downtime and delivers an overall better breast shape long term.If you are considering breast reduction surgery, you should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and make sure your surgeon understands your goals. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ramiro Morales, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and pictures. What you want is very safe and you expectations should easily be met. Be sure to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for your consultation.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. What you want is completely possible and safe. Make sure you are seeing a surgeon who is listening to you and your goals and make absolutely sure they are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and accept nothing less.

Good luck!

Dallas Buchanan, MD
VIVIFY plastic surgery
Tampa, FL

Good luck!

Dallas Buchanan, MD
VIVIFY plastic surgery
Tampa, FL

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Yes very possible to redo breast lift/reduction. Best to see only private practice boarded Plastic Surgeons, NOT clinic ones! Fees in $10,000 ranges.

Breast Reduction D to a B cup. Previously BL 10 yrs ago w “Mesh Bra”. Is this still possible?

Answers (9)

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