Implants only or lift? Female, age 29, 5’7, 194lbs. (photo)

Question

Female, age 29, 5’7, 194lbs I recently had a consult and was told that I would need a lift along with implants. I’m just not sure a lift is required is my situation. What do you think?

Luis Suarez, MD · Answer

We would need to know more information and we also would need to request side pictures in order to see how the breast falls with your arm your side just because sometimes when the arms are lifted it changes how the breast looks, but, there has been any fluctuation in weight, weight loss or the condition of the skin is just very thin and lax, the best option would be a lift so we can hold the weight of the implant otherwise with due time it would sag. But perhaps a periareolar lift would also work, however, with further evaluation, we would be able to know. But, just by looking at the picture it does not seem like you need a lift granted like I mentioned previously there are other factors that can contribute, to perhaps needing it.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

A side photo would help determine where your nipples are located in relation to your breast fold. If they are located at or below (which may be the case) then a lift is recommended.

Guler Gamze Eren, MD · Answer

Hi from İstanbul,Many thanks for your question.The placement of your nipples is slightly lower than they should be, a lift with an implant will bring your nipples to where they should be and provide a more youthful appearance. In addition, due to the volume of the implant itself, your breasts may sag a little more over time, as you age and your skin loses its elasticity, a much better result will be obtained if the implant is lifted.
Best luck,Dr. Gamze Eren

Jonathan Heistein, MD · Answer

Hi.  You do not need to have a lift with your implants.  If you have breast augmentation without the lift, then your nipples will not be elevated or made more symmetric in height.  However, since you don't have too much sagging or asymmetry, you can have breast augmentation without the lift.  If you do it that way, then you can avoid the extra scars that are necessary with the lift, and you just have to accept the fact that it won't elevate your nipples much.  I always like the idea of minimizing scars, so I think it's very reasonable to do just breast augmentation if you are ok with the expected outcome.  Best of luck!

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

That may be correct.   A lot goes into that decision and you can't take back the scars-so I would take a minute and consider your options.  When I am not sure if a breast lift is absolutely needed on someone who is also unsure if they want to risk the scars, I put in the implants and hold for 6-9 months.  Dual plane surgery with an internal release of the breast tissue can change a lot of anatomy. Frequently when the implants settle, then the decision is self-evident..... either you can do without it OR the lift is now quite a smaller lift because the breast is different.  I hope that helps!!!  Best Wishes!!

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Mildly Sagging Breasts: If your breasts are mildly droopy, a saline or silicone gel implant placed behind the pectoral muscle might help create the illusion of perkiness. That’s because as the implant fills out the top of the breast, it also fills out the bottom, making it look as if the nipple has moved higher. It hasn’t. You can always get a lift later if you feel you are not perky enough when fully settled and healed. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your photograph is limited. However, your nipples seem to be low on the chest wall and the breasts seem to be hanging. You may benefit from a circumareola approach, which will elevate the nipple-areola complex higher and more medially and also allow access to place the implants.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  Sometimes the size of the implant can build up the breast enough to not need a lift.  We would love to sit down with you and discuss your concerns. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

An exam or further photos is needed for the best recommendation.  From the submitted photo you have some asymmetry and the nipples seem a little low.  A lift would correct that as well as raise nipple position.  With an augmentation alone your breasts will appear similar to how they are now except with more volume.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Just based on your one photo which is not well done, I would say you need a lift. Measurements can tell this. If you don't go with a lift, you may wind up with larger and still sagging breasts. You can resubmit photos, a full frontal view with both arms down at your sides, and a side view.

Implants only or lift? Female, age 29, 5’7, 194lbs. (photo)

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