Would I benefit from internal bra with lift?

Question

I'm going for a revision breast lift due to stretched scars, stretched areola, and resagging. I got the surgery back in 2016, lollipop incision, no significant weight changes. I am going to a different surgeon, because my surgeon told me my scars weren't bad and then said he'd do a donut lift for me, this sketched me out. 1) would I benefit from an internal bra this time around? What exactly are the benefits of it? 2) do my breast lift results look normal to 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 if not injured during your previous surgery.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. You are a good candidate for a revision breast lift. It seems that in addition to thickened scars, the areola may have stretched also. If you don’t have implants currently, an internal bra or mesh is likely not needed. Discuss this with your surgeon to determine the benefits.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

One reason for wide scars with breast lift plus implants is the weight of the implants puts pressure on the skin envelope of the breast. An internal bra offloads the weight of the implants and breast tissue so the healing can be optimized. I think it would be a good idea for you to consider this when revising the breast lift.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Dear @Ddrr123 I appreciate your question and showing your pictures. This type of change after breast surgery requires a new intervention to improve the projection and shape of the breasts. From my experience a new intervention is require to improve the projection and shape of the breasts. The size of the areola could be reduce if is desired by the patient, as well as to reduce the volume. Reconstructive surgeries allow the correction of shape, projection and volume of the breast as well as the complete revision of the scar, making it clear that the healing processes are inherent to each patient and her lifestyle. For more information and recommendations is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Your breasts appear to be two different sizes and shapes, your areola are too wide, and you have substantial scar spread. If you want to look better, you'll need a total revision, not a donut lift. The use of mesh can be considered, but what's going to make a big difference is careful execution of a surgery that  gets symmetry in size and shape and reduces the areola. Post operatively, wearing 24/7 elastic and porous tape will allow much better scar formation.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concerns and frustrations. While in person examination would be helpful, it appears from your photos that you may benefit from using a so-called internal bra. 
My favorite option is an absorbable man-made product called Galaflex. This is placed around your lifted breasts and maintains the shape and lift. Overtime it is absorbed and dissolved by your body but leaves down healthy tissue that acts as a scaffold to maintain the lift. However not all patients require this. Come see me or another board-certified plastic surgeon in our area to explore the best options for you. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Ddrr123,
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. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hilton Becker, MD · Answer

While an internal mesh bra is beneficial, You will require a revision of your breast lift as well as a reduction on the right side

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you do not have implants that re sagging below your natural crease, an internal bra will do nothing for you.  Your breast do appear to sit somewhat low on your chest and the base of your breasts cannot be moved. However, you can do smaller and tighter if you wish.  Measurements are needed to see if the nipples should be raised.

Raul Trujillo, MD · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your question. An internal bra will push the implant up and medially, when we a re performing a breast augmentation this is desirable; but in breast lifts, if you have very saggy skin; the implant could stay high and the breast tissue slide down, giving you a waterfall deformity. In order to decrease the risk of this, most of the tissue in the lower pole should be resected; this also will decrease the chance of bottoming out.