Breast augmentation +/- a lift (mastopexy)
Unsure about whether you may want a breast augmentation or lift or both? Then read on as this opinion piece may provide helpful information.
The most common group of patients enquiring about breast augmentation +/- mastopexy are women who, as a result of factors including, but not limited to, pregnancy, breast feeding, genetics and exercise, may want to reshape and reposition their breasts. Due to hormonal changes that take place, many women may experience a loss of breast firmness, change in breast size and position.
It is not unusual for patients to attend our practice asking for a breast lift (which can involve more scarring) and their concern may actually be corrected with a breast augmentation alone.
If breast volume has decreased but the nipple is in an appropriate position, then patients may feel like they need a lift but what actually may be needed is the volume replaced. (See Figure 1 below) Read more information about concepts in breast aesthetics.
There are 3 main issues to be addressed. One important consideration is the preoperative nipple position. The second is how much breast volume patients have. The third is how big to increase the volume of the breasts if needed.
The most important consideration is the preoperative nipple position
Depending on a patient’s nipple position, a breast augmentation alone may address their concerns. (See figure 2) Please note that depending on the amount of skin laxity you have you may need to have a larger sized implant in order to achieve the desired result.
Alternatively, you may have enough breast volume but experience lower breast tissue and therefore, be suitable for a breast lift alone without an implant. There are multiple types of scars that can be used and some patients are suitable for a horizontal scar breast lift. (See figure 3) Please see link to mastopexy
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Figure 1. This patient presented asking for a breast lift. Her nipples were in an appropriate position and all that was required was a breast augmentation alone. -
Figure 2. The nipple position is slightly too low which is at the level of the inframammary fold (IMF). This is called grade 1 ptosis and can be corrected with a breast augmentation alone.
This opinion piece was brought to you by Dr Damien Grinsell (AHPRA Registration: MED0001207555), Registered medication practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialty registration in surgery – plastic surgery)
To make an appointment to have a personalised opinion please ring 03 85602999 or email enquiries@horizonplasticsurgery.com
