A breast lift can reshape and reposition the breasts to create a more youthful, elevated appearance. While this procedure alone can produce beautiful results, some patients may also want to increase the size of their breasts. Combining a breast lift with implants can address both shape and volume, offering a more comprehensive enhancement. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, our breast lift with implants can provide fuller, lifted breasts.
What Is a Breast Lift With Implants?
A breast lift with implants combines two techniques to address both sagging and volume loss in the breasts. During the procedure, the breast tissue is lifted and reshaped, while implants are placed to increase breast size. This combination can help restore a firmer, more proportionate appearance for patients who have experienced changes due to aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations.
Why Choose a Breast Lift With Implants?
Sagging Breasts
Breast sagging, or ptosis, occurs when the breast tissue drops lower on the chest, often stretching the skin. This can happen due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, heavy breasts, lack of support, or weight loss. By removing some of the excess tissue and tightening underlying tissues, we can restore the breasts to a more youthful position.
Loss of Upper Pole Breast Volume
The upper portion of the breast, known as the upper pole, often loses fullness over time. This can leave the breasts looking flat or deflated, particularly above the nipple. Adding breast implants during a breast lift restores this lost volume for a fuller, rounder contour in the upper pole.
Asymmetry in Breast Shape or Size
Many patients experience some degree of breast asymmetry, where one breast is slightly larger, smaller, or shaped differently than the other. A breast lift with implants allows us to address both shape and size imbalances by repositioning the breast tissue and using implants to even out volume.
Nipple Areolar Complex Below Breast Crease
When the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) sits below the breast crease, it indicates significant sagging. A breast lift raises the NAC to a higher, more natural position on the breast mound. Implants can enhance this result by providing fullness and better overall proportions in the lifted breast.
Augmentation Mastopexy Options
Implant Type and Size
The type and size of implant you choose can impact the results of your breast enlargement. Implants are made from silicone or saline, each with different benefits. Silicone implants provide a natural feel and appearance, while saline implants can be adjusted more easily during placement. Implant size depends on your body proportions, skin elasticity, and desired outcome. During your consultation, we’ll discuss options to determine the right implant size and type for you.
Lift Technique
The breast lift technique we use depends on the degree of sagging and your specific goals:
- Crescent Lift: A minimal lift technique involving a small incision along the top of the areola. This is best for patients with mild sagging who also want a slight adjustment to nipple position.
- Donut Lift: Also known as a periareolar lift, this involves a circular incision around the areola. It is ideal for mild to moderate sagging and allows for repositioning of the nipple while tightening surrounding tissue.
- Lollipop Lift: This is a vertical lift that includes an incision around the areola and down to the breast crease. This technique works well for moderate sagging.
- Anchor Lift: The most extensive lift involves incisions around the areola, down to the breast crease, and along the crease itself. It is best suited for patients with more sagging and excess skin and it provides the most dramatic lift.
Implant Location
With a breast lift with implants, we can place the implants either behind or in front of the chest muscle (pectoralis major):
- Submuscular Placement (behind the muscle): This approach places the implant partially under the chest muscle. It can create a more natural slope to the upper breast and reduce the likelihood of visible implant edges. It may also lower the risk of complications like capsular contracture.
- Subglandular Placement (in front of the muscle): Here, the implant sits directly behind the breast tissue but above the muscle. This option may work well for patients with sufficient natural tissue to cover the implant and involves a shorter recovery time.
Step by Step Through Your Breast Lift With Implants
Consultation
Your breast lift with implants begins with an in-depth consultation. During this visit, we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your breast tissue, and determine the right approach for you. This includes choosing the implant type, size, and placement, as well as selecting the appropriate lift technique. We’ll also review your medical history, answer any questions you have, and make sure you feel comfortable and informed about the procedure.
Preoperative Preparation
Avoid smoking and nicotine products for at least 4 weeks before surgery since they can impair healing. Refrain from taking blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements like fish oil, which may increase bleeding. Stay hydrated, maintain a nutritious diet, and engage in light exercise to keep your body strong. You will need to ask someone to drive you home and it’s helpful to have someone to help you during the first 24-48 hours post-surgery.
The Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you’ll arrive at the surgical facility and meet with your board-certified anesthesiologist. General anesthesia will be administered to keep you completely comfortable during the procedure. Breast enhancement procedures take about two to three hours. Your surgery may be different depending on the technique used and the complexity of the surgery.
After excess skin is removed and the implants are placed, the incisions will be closed with dissolvable stitches below the surface of the skin and reinforced with skin glue, so no dressings are required. This technique promotes clean healing while minimizing the need for additional post-operative care. Once the procedure is complete, you’ll be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia before being discharged the same day.
Your Recovery Process and Timeline
Immediate Post-Operative Care
Right after your surgery, it’s normal to experience some soreness, swelling, and tightness in the chest area. Pain medication will be prescribed to help you manage discomfort during the first few days. You’ll be fitted with a compression garment or surgical bra to minimize swelling and support your breasts as they begin to heal. You can typically shower 24-48 hours after surgery, but you’ll need to remove the compression garment briefly and gently pat the incisions dry before putting it back on. Avoid soaking in bathtubs or pools during this early stage.
Weeks 1-2
During the first two weeks, you’ll need to wear a soft cup or sports bra continuously to keep the breasts stable and reduce strain on the incisions. Avoid lifting anything over ten pounds since this can put stress on the chest area and delay healing. Light walking is a great way to promote healing and promote healthy circulation, but anything more strenuous should be avoided. Swelling and mild discomfort will gradually improve during this time, and most patients begin to feel more comfortable as their body adjusts to the results of their breast enhancement surgery.
Weeks 3-6
By week three, many patients have returned to work, depending on the physical demands of their job. You can begin incorporating more light activities into your routine. It’s still important to wear a supportive bra during the day to protect your results and assist with healing. Incisions will continue to heal, but continue keeping the incision areas clean and protected.
Full Healing and Results
By months three to six, most of the swelling will be resolved, and the breasts will settle into their final position. While some residual swelling may persist, this typically resolves by the 12-month mark. At this stage, you’ll see the full results of your breast lift with implants—improved breast position, volume, and contour. The scars will begin to fade and lighten over time, and with proper care, they will continue to improve in appearance. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your progress.
FAQs About Your Breast Lift With Implants
Am I a Good Candidate for Augmentation Mastopexy?
You may be a good candidate for a breast lift with implants if you have sagging breasts, loss of volume, or asymmetry and are in overall good health. Ideal candidates are non-smokers who have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. Whether you have breast changes from aging, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy, this breast enhancement option can address many of your concerns.
How Long Will the Results Last?
The results of a breast lift with implants are long-lasting, but factors such as aging, gravity, and changes in weight can affect the breasts over time. Implants maintain their volume, but the surrounding tissue may continue to age naturally and lose its elasticity. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing supportive bras can help prolong the results of your breast enhancement surgery.
Will My Results Look Natural?
The results of a breast lift with implants can look natural when the procedure is carefully planned to suit your proportions. During your consultation, we will discuss the size, shape, and type of implant that complements your frame. If you are looking for a natural aesthetic, be sure to communicate this with Dr. Tarola.
What Happens If I Gain or Lose Weight After the Procedure?
Weight changes can impact the results of a breast lift with implants. Weight gain may increase breast size and stretch the skin, while weight loss can reduce volume and cause the breasts to sag. Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle is the best way to preserve your results long-term.
What Is the Lifespan of Breast Implants?
Breast implants are durable but not considered lifetime devices. On average, implants last 10-15 years, though many patients go longer without complications. Over time, implants may need to be replaced due to natural changes in the breasts, implant wear, or personal preference. Regular check-ups and imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, can help monitor implant integrity.
Breast Lift With Implants: Comprehensive Breast Enhancement
A breast lift with implants combines the benefits of lifted breast tissue and enhanced volume with a wide range of options to complement your figure. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, we offer this procedure to address sagging, volume loss, and breast asymmetry in a single surgery. To schedule your consultation, call (615) 624-8914 or contact us using our online form.
