Considering One vs. Two Surgeries for Breast Augmentation after Pregnancy and Weight Loss (Photos)

Question

Hi, and thank you for answering my question. I’m not thrilled about the idea of having two separate surgeries, but I do want my breasts to look nice. I’m an athlete, so I’m not looking for a large size—just something that looks great in a triangle bikini top. I’ve had one child and lost about 20 pounds, so I’d like to restore a natural, confident shape. I’m torn because while I’d prefer to avoid two procedures, I also don’t want to regret not taking the more thorough approach. In your opinion, could I achieve good results with just one surgery? I really appreciate your insight—thank you again.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

There are pros and cons to doing implants and a breast lift at the same time. Cons are that this combination has a high revision rate, because it can be hard to predict how everything will settle during healing. Doing it in 2 stages, usually the lift first, is more predictable. On the other hand, this is essentially the same as a 100% revision rate, and revisions when necessary after doing them together are more likely to be "touch-ups". For those reasons I usually prefer to do it in one stage. A final consideration is that if you did the lift first, you may decide that fits well with your athletic build without implants. You could always do the implants later.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

In many cases a breast lift and augmentation can be combined in one surgery.  This would remove excess skin, downsize the areola, lift the nipple, and give you a conservative enhancement that matches your active lifestyle.  Visit with a few board certified plastic surgeons near you for consultations. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

If your goal is to have perkier and larger breasts, then breast augmentation and lift would be needed. Whether these two procedures can be combined depends on the experience and preference of your surgeon. Some surgeons prefer to do them in one surgery, while others may prefer to stage them.

However, if your goal is to just get perkier breasts and size isn’t an issue, then a lift alone would be sufficient.

Gulcin Nujen Cardak, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hi, both approaches will work for you. In my opinion with implant over your muscles and breast lift we can achieve good results. In this case, you can continue to your daily routine in a short while. Since you are an athlete I suppose it is important for you to go back to working out quickly

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

There are many great surgeons who combine implant placement and breast lift in one surgery. There is no reason to stage the procedure into two.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

The way I determine one stage or two stage lift with implants is this. If the nipples need to be raised a lot( like in your case), I do two stages. Otherwise you risk getting a poor result or the surgeon doesn’t raise the nipples as far as they need to be. Two stages in your case for sure. Lift first. Implants 2 to 3 months later

Considering One vs. Two Surgeries for Breast Augmentation after Pregnancy and Weight Loss (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: One stage will work for you also

Answer: One stage will work for you also

Answer: Augmentation Mastopexy is a standard for over 20 years

Answer: Augmentation Mastopexy is a standard for over 20 years

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Breast lift

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Considering One vs. Two Surgeries for Breast Augmentation after Pregnancy and Weight Loss (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: One stage will work for you also

Answer: One stage will work for you also

Answer: Augmentation Mastopexy is a standard for over 20 years

Answer: Augmentation Mastopexy is a standard for over 20 years

Answer: Breast lift

Answer: Breast lift

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.