Would I benefit from a breast lift without implants? (Photo)

Question

Female, 30, 140lbs, 5'3" ish. I have saggy breast from weight loss. While they do not bother me immensely. They have bothered me enough to look getting a possible breast lift. Ive considered maybe even getting a small reduction. I would like a cute nice round bottom. I've never had upper fullness, even as a teen. But I've always loved the way the bottom was shaped. Cute, round, and perky. Would i benefit with just a lift? Would a lollilop get me there? Thank you.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them 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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

You seem to be a good candidate for breast lift. Expect to be 1/2-1 full cup size smaller than now! If you decide to have larger breasts, implant placement can be done 6 plus months after first surgery. Good luck.

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Dear Astadi, thanks for sharing your recommendation,after analyzing your case you look like a great candidate for breast augmentation surgery with implants and lift. Make sure you go on consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. Hope this helps and best of lucks. Dr. Luis Mejia.

Michael J. Stein, MD · Answer

While you are a candidate for both procedures I think you will get a very nice result with a breast lift alone. 
I think a vertical breast lift will offer you a great shape. As you point out, upper pole fullness is easily achieved with an implant. Having said this, you have enough tissue that a breast lift alone will give you better cleavage, tighten your lower pole so you see your breast fold, and will redistribute the tissue to improve the upper pole contour. Also, the amount of scarring is the same as a breast lift with an implant.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding a breast lift and for including photos. They are very helpful!

From the photos that you shared, it appears that you would be a great candidate for a breast lift. Keep in mind that your breast would be slightly smaller after having a lift from the excess skin that is removed.

I recommend that you have an in person consultation with two or more experienced board-certified plastic surgeons in your area.

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

You would probably benefit from a breast lift. Two important questions are when (now or years from now) and which type.
One challenge will be managing your areola diameter. Frequently (but not always), areolas that are dilated with a large diameter relative to the overall breast size have delicate structure. That's why the stretched with breast development in the first place. That means they stretch again after a breast lift. This is especially true for donut lifts. So, then the question is whether or not additional scars (vertical and breast crease) are worth the change in shape or not. I always ask myself that question when considering a breast lift, "Are the scars worth it? Will the change in shape last long enough to justify putting scars on this particular person's body?" An in person exam is necessary to assess skin type, areola type, and take detailed breast measurements.

Amir Sadr, MD, MSc (Plast), FEBOPRAS · Answer

Dear Astadi
Thanks for your question. Considering your history, photographs and without a clinical examination, my first impression is an anchor shaped uplift is the best option. This will remove the excess skin, tightens your breast skin around existing breast tissue and can reduce the size of your areola as well. This would not improve the upper pole fullness or your cleavage. The only way to improve that would be increasing the volume either with a breast implant or staged fat transfer to your breast. I hope you find this explanation useful.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Astadi,
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

Heather Vande Ven, DO · Answer

Whether you would benefit from a breast lift without implants depends on your individual goals, preferences, and the specific characteristics of your breasts. Here are some factors to consider:
1.	Sagging or ptosis: If your breasts have sagged or lost their firmness due to factors such as aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, a breast lift (mastopexy) can help to lift and reshape them. A breast lift can restore a more youthful and perky appearance to the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue.
2.	Size and volume: If you are satisfied with the size and volume of your breasts but wish to address sagging or asymmetry, a breast lift without implants may be suitable for you. The procedure focuses on reshaping the existing breast tissue rather than adding volume with implants.
3.	Natural look and feel: Some individuals prefer a more natural look and feel to their breasts without the use of implants. A breast lift can achieve a natural-looking result by enhancing the position and contour of the breasts while maintaining their original size and shape.
4.	Minimal scarring: While a breast lift involves incisions and will result in some scarring, the extent of scarring can be minimized with proper surgical techniques. If you are concerned about scarring, discuss your options with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can explain the placement of incisions and the expected scarring based on your individual anatomy and surgical plan.
5.	Personal preference: Ultimately, the decision to undergo a breast lift without implants is a personal one. Consider your aesthetic goals, lifestyle, and any concerns you may have about surgery and recovery. Consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon can help you explore your options and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and desires.
It's essential to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your candidacy for a breast lift and discuss the potential benefits and limitations of the procedure in your specific case. They can also help you determine whether additional procedures, such as breast augmentation with implants, may be necessary to achieve your desired outcome.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are happy with your size, then go with the vertical lift. If you would like more volume, then an implant can be added behind the muscles to give better support and upper breast fullness.