Ask a Surgeon - Breast Lift - I am 44 years old. One year ago I had breast uplift (mastopexy, lollipop...

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I am 44 years old. One year ago I had breast uplift (mastopexy, lollipop incision)...

Q:

I am 44 years old. One year ago I had breast uplift (mastopexy, lollipop incision) with saline breast implants inserted under the muscle. I find the implants too large and heavy for my small frame. What are my options at this point to reduce them and will my breasts sag again if I do so? With this being the second time around for this procedure, what are the risks and recovery time?

A:

Thank you for your question. I always encourage patients to return to their original surgeon if they have any concerns or questions about their procedure, and I would recommend that you pose these same questions to your operating physician. This individual has all of your records and knows exactly what mastopexy technique and size of implants were utilized. If you are not able to follow-up with your original surgeon, then I would suggest that you seek a plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

You may be a candidate to undergo removal of your current breast implants with replacement of smaller implants or with no replacement of implants. Either option would decrease the size of your breasts and make your breasts lighter and more proportional for your "small frame". You may need a revision of your mastopexy to help reshape your breasts to a smaller size if you either downsize or remove your implants. Your breasts are always subject to the force of gravity and the tissues will relax over time, so your breasts will eventually settle. If you decide to undergo additional breast surgery, you need to have a careful discussion with your surgeon about the risks of secondary surgery. The recovery following additional breast surgery should be similar to your original surgery with restricted physical activity for several weeks.