I want to remove my implants, do I need a lift? (Photos)

Dear Terrific452198,

my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your photos. Your skin should still be elastic and strong at the age of 25. If you have not gained any weight since the time of your augmentation, your breasts should be approximately the same size after you remove your implants. If you feel that your nipple position is acceptable, then a simple implant removal will allow your breast tissue to retract and shrink as much as it can, and you can see if you are pleased with the result over the next several months. If you are pleased with the result, then nothing else needs to be done and you would only have a small incision in the fold underneath your breast. If you feel that your breasts would be deflated, and your nipples would be low, than a breast lift after you remove your implants, could elevate your nipples to a new more youthful, perky position, and tighten the skin of your breast to make it look more plump. The breast lift would also reduce the size of your areola at the same time as they are elevated to their new more youthful position. Best wishes.

I recommend 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. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hi there, and thank you for your question. I highly recommend having a breast lift (Mastopexy) done at the same time as the explant. With implants that size, there is no possible way that your skin will shrink down to what it was before the implants were placed. Please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who can safely perform this surgery for you. Best of luck!

If your goal is to return to the look you had prior to augmentation then you will need to consider a breast lift. The procedure will remove excess skin as well as downsize the areola. I encourage you to begin by visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.