New smaller implants with breast lift to achieve smaller, lighter breasts with full youthful shape and balanced proportions

My first breast augmentation surgery was in 1999 to add fullness and shape to naturally large breasts that became like empty flat pancakes after breast feeding two babies. At that time (~29 yrs old and 145 lbs), I had 310cc high profile saline implants (no lift) under muscle, going from 36C to 36D, and achieving desired full round shape. I had a very natural appearance.

20 yrs and +15 lbs later, my breasts had sagged and stretched and swelled (with weight gain/age) significantly and were heavy and generally floppy and pendulous. I’m presently an athletic, 5’8 162 lbs size 10/12 pants and large tops. But nothing less than steel-reinforced, high-quality underwire bras (including sports bras) were an option to achieve lifted appearance and control, so bra selection and clothing selection was limited, plus I have grooves in my shoulders from bra straps holding up the weight.

I wanted a lift and I wanted to have smaller lighter breasts with more fullness on top of the the breast, and firmer breast (less loose skin and tissue and not so floppy e.g. hanging to sides/under arms when on my back). Shape and position were more important to me than size.

I trusted my surgeon, who recommended a smaller silicone implant with lift, so I had 205cc low profile implants with a full lift. Surgery was June 14, 2018 performed by Dr. Shahram Salemy, Seattle, WA.

Today is Day 3 post-op and I am amazed at how comfortable I’ve felt. Pain is very manageable and mostly limited to the incisions under the breasts. I have bruising, but my breasts don’t feel sore, and no drains needed.

In terms of results, I was very apprehensive about aesthetic results because when researching and reviewing pictures, I couldn’t find other women like me with my larger frame, naturally larger breasts, long torso, breasts that are anatomically lower on the torso, and who were trying to go a little smaller in size using a smaller implant with lift. That’s why I decided to add my review.

I am pleased and relieved to report that I am very happy with the initial results. My breasts are smaller and higher, and I’m thrilled with the shape and symmetry of the breasts. I recognize that things will change over the next months, but so far so good. In fact, I really couldn’t be happier. I’m very optimistic about the results and will post updates. I’m not sure what my cup size is now, or how clothes will look, but I wanted to post for now in order to offer encouragement to any other women who have similar concerns or circumstances as my own.

This is my second breast surgery to replace old implants and to lift sagging breasts. Initial augmentation in 1999 was 310cc high profile round saline, to add shape and fullness to breast tissue that hung flat and shapeless after breast feeding two children. My initial surgery achieved the fullness and roundness and some lifting by virtue of the implant. Initial augmentation resulted in a cup size increase from 36C to 36D.

Fast forward 19 years, weight gain and weight loss, and resulting sagging, breasts were heavy and droopy. My anatomy and the position of my breast on my chest (more lateral and low position of my breasts on long torso) exaggerated the downward and lateral appearance over time. I’m 49, 5’8, and 163 lbs (size 10/12 pants and large top). My bra size is 36 DDD (full) and required very thick straps (4 hooks) and underwire to hold these very full, floppy, and heavy breasts up and in place.

My hope was that I could reduce my size a little, raise the breast back to its optimum position on my chest, improve symmetry and shape eg center breast on areola with more fullness on top, and ultimately gain more flexibility in my wardrobe. 

My surgeon removed the old implant, replaced the implant with a 205cc low profile silicone implant, and performed a full breast lift. Though I have enough natural breast tissue, I chose to have a small implant to achieve more fullness and shape in the upper breast. 

Today is 1 week post-op and I am so grateful for a relatively painless and uncomplicated recovery. I am just so thrilled with my results so far and feel so relieved and happy. I traveled 3 hours for the surgery, stayed the night before and the night after surgery in a hole, then had my care taker drive home after my 24-hour post op visit. Today I spoke with my surgeon on the phone rather than driving back, and feel totally comfortable with that decision. I was given Week 2 post-op instructions in writing, and today after speaking with my surgeon I removed the tape on the incisions and replaced it with tape provided. I’m bruised and have a little swelling, and there was slight drainage on the old tape (from the under breast incision), but the incisions seem to be healing very well and I think they look much cleaner and neater than expected. Pain and discomfort have been minimal and I’ve enjoyed staying home from work and relaxing this week. 

I’m still sleeping propped up and have slept very well every night. I bought a foam wedge at Bed Bath & Beyond for sitting up in bed, and recommend it. It’s worth it’s weight in gold for the good night’s sleep ????

I’ll try to post again in a few weeks, and hope this review is helpful. My most important advice is to do your research, communicate thoroughly and honestly with your surgeon, do your part to exercise and eat healthy for many months before surgery, and get the best surgeon you possibly can, even if it means spending a little more up front. It’s your body and your health, and you’re worth it!
HELPFUL