Should I consider a breast lift now or should I wait until I replace my first set of implants? (photos)

Question

I am 36 yr old, breast fed one child and done having children. 5’7” and 125 lbs. boobs have obviously sagged post pregnancy and I’m a small B cup. I have had 2 consults with board certified PS. One said full anchor lift, one said donut and the last said no lift now- maybe in 10 plus years when I need to replace.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. From your pictures, you seem to be a good candidate for just breast augmentation. I recommend scheduling a consult for a proper evaluation. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Dr. Moises Salama, board certified plastic surgeon.

Ellen Ozolins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Your nipples are in a good position, and there is mild drooping. Breast augmentation alone can be sufficient but if you would like to address the mild drooping then a Benelli (donut) lift could help. A full anchor or lollipoop (vertical mastopexy) lift is often recommended if you have more noticeable breast drooping and want a significant lift and contour. Implants can help restore volume and contour without the need for a lift. However, the decision depends on your feelings about potential lift scars and whether you want to address volume, sagging, or both. Have a detailed discussion with your doctors to choose the best option.

Jeffrey Lisiecki, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, you don't need a lift--your nipple is well above the level of the fold underneath your breast and there is a good amount of breast tissue and skin visible beneath your nipple.  A breast augmentation alone would be appropriate and spare you extra scars (though you may need/want a lift in the future).

Matthew S. Kilgo, MD · Answer

Hi. While it is difficult to give you a definitive answer without a complete examination, it appears from your photos that you have glandular ptosis (the nipple is in a normal position but breast tissue sags below the breast fold). This can often be corrected by adjustment of the pectoralis muscle during the dissection without the need for a lift. I hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear caitlw26,
determining whether you need simply a breast augmentation versus a breast lift can be somewhat complicated. It depends on a number of factors including skin laxity and current nipple position. Generally speaking, if the nipples are lower than the inframammary line the patient will most likely need a breast lift. If the nipples are at or above the inframammary line we can generally get by with just a breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often still using implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift. To be sure a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine what the patient actually needs.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

I would recommend a breast augmentation with a lift (anchor pattern). This is the best way to properly address the skin laxity. This is the best way to properly redrape the skin, sculpt the underlying breast tissues. I would recommend seeing an American Board of Plastic Surgery certified plastic surgeon; ideally, this surgeon has extensive breast surgery experience and hopefully even has completed an Aesthetic fellowship accredited by the Aesthetic Society.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Your breasts don’t seem to be sagging enough to warrant a breast lift at this time. You may want to consider holding off until you get your implants replaced.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! I would not recommend a lift at this point in your life. I do think it might be in your future, but it seems unnecessary right now. Good luck!

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

From your photographs, it certainly seems like you do not need a lift.  Until your nipples are at or below your breast fold, you probably are not a candidate for a lift.  You can feel lucky that you do not need all of that extra surgery!

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

I think that a lift won't do very much for you.  Your nipples are not sagging, and the skin of the lower part of your breast is only minimally sagging.  I think that you would need more scars on your breast and still may not have what you want.  You may be able to get a better correction when you change your implants.  Hope that helps!

Should I consider a breast lift now or should I wait until I replace my first set of implants? (photos)

Answers (18)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (18)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Is it okay to get Breast Augmentation after repairing a torn tendon in my scapula 1 year ago?

Is it possible for submuscular gel implants to ripple?

Help! Are my breast implants bottoming out or is it natural settling? (Photo)

Is my breast naturally asymmetrical or is it caused by implants? (Photo)

Bottoming out - will underwire bra prevent more bottoming out? (Photo)

Does BWD matter with small breast enhancements?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS