What Kind Of Breast Implants Should I Choose?
There are many types of breast implants available, including silicone and saline, round and shaped, textured and smooth. Depending on your anatomic needs and expressed goals, Dr. Goldberg will recommend the implant model that best suits your treatment plan. For instance, women with ample breast tissue may not benefit as much from silicone implants as individuals with thinner tissues. This is because the ample breast tissue makes the less natural profile of silicone implants less of a factor. Women with thinner skin or less breast tissue may prefer silicone, though they should keep in mind that this option can be more expensive and typically requires a larger incision.
Both saline and silicone implants are available in both anatomically shaped and round versions. A round implant is ideal for someone who is happy with the shape of her breasts but is looking for more volume. Round implants also will be a better choice for women who prioritize fullness on the top of the breasts. Anatomically shaped implants can preserve a more mature breast shape, and they may even make a breast lift unnecessary in borderline cases.
Ultimately, the decision of which breast implant to use will be up to you, and Dr. Goldberg will provide extensive information about the benefits of each implant to help guide your selection.
What Can I Expect During The Breast Lift With Implants Procedure?
The procedure typically takes between one and three hours to perform, and either sedation or general anesthesia will be used. Due to the removal of excess skin, the incisions for breast lift surgery with implants will be longer than you would find for breast augmentation alone, but Dr. Goldberg will take great care to minimize scarring as much as possible. In addition, we offer numerous advanced scar reduction techniques to help you achieve an optimal outcome. Dr. Goldberg may create an incision halfway or all the way around the nipple, an incision from the nipple vertically down to the breast crease, and/or an incision horizontally along the breast crease. Placing the implant will generally not require additional incisions beyond what is necessary for the lift. Dr. Goldberg will let you know during the initial consultation which approach may be able to help maximize your results.
Breast Lift with Implants Incisions
A breast augmentation-mastopexy uses incisions typical of a breast lift to both eliminate sagging and place your new implants. The most ideal incision pattern depends on the extent of sagging observed (ptosis), the size and type of implant chosen, and a patient’s unique anatomy. Common incision types include:
- Periareolar: Made around the edge of the areola, best for patients with mild sagging
- Lollipop or Keyhole: Encircles the areola and extends vertically down to the breast crease for moderate lifting
- Anchor: Utilizes a keyhole pattern around the areolas with an additional horizontal incision along the inframammary fold for significant reshaping.
These incisions allow Dr. Goldberg to remove excess skin, reposition the nipple to a more youthful height, and insert the chosen implants either above or below the chest muscle. Proper incision planning not only enhances the outcome of a breast lift with implants, but also supports long-term implant stability and breast symmetry.
What Is Recovery From Breast Lift With Implants Like?
You will likely be able to return home the same day as the breast lift with implant procedure. You should rest at home for about two weeks, after which you may be able to return to work and normal activities, depending on your level of comfort. During this healing period, you will wear a special bra that can help speed the recovery process. Some swelling, bruising, changing nipple sensation, and minor discomfort is normal. Dr. Goldberg will prescribe medication to manage any pain. You should begin to see the final results of the operation in a couple months, though some mild swelling may continue for up to a year or more. In most instances, scars will slowly lighten in color, fade, and become smoother over time.
How Long Will Results From Breast Augmentation-Mastopexy Last?
The outcome of a breast lift with implants can last for decades into the future and those who undergo this breast rejuvenation procedure will always have younger-looking contours than individuals of the same age who did not receive surgery. The effects of the natural aging process will continue, but patients can generally expect an enduring result. That said, maintaining results often involves a combination of good aftercare and healthy living. Protecting the skin from sun damage, maintaining a stable weight, wearing supportive bras, and following post-operative instructions can all help preserve the breast shape and minimize sagging.
Over time, minor changes in firmness or nipple position may occur due to gravity or tissue aging, but many patients enjoy their enhanced contours for many years without requiring revision surgery. Breast implants themselves are designed to be durable and most modern silicone and saline options can last for well over a decade before any maintenance or replacement may be needed. It’s recommended to stay vigilant to any changes in the look or feel of your breasts over time in order to monitor the condition of the implants. If your preferences change over time, Dr. Goldberg also performs secondary procedures like breast revision and breast implant removal. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Goldberg can also help ensure your implants remain intact and your results continue to look natural, youthful, and balanced.
