Help me choose between a breast lift and implants, please

June 20, 2010 2:07 PM

I'm deciding between getting a breast lift (mastoplexy) and implants, and would appreciate advice.

I have slightly saggy breasts. The skin over the overlap has gotten rashes for years that my dermatologist has treated without success. A few years ago, we started talking about me getting either a breast lift or implants, partially because of the rash, and partially because I hate the feeling of "boob sweat" where they sag.

I am young (30) and healthy, have a B cup and an athletic build. I'd prefer not to have bigger boobs but would like breasts that don't droop. I'd like to finally get rid of the rash and stop that horrible summer feeling of boob sweat. (Also, I've been to three derm's with the rash, so I'm fairly confident I've exhausted all treatment options)

I've read the prior threads on breast surgery, and know metafilter tends towards favoring natural breasts, but I've decided on surgery and will either be getting a breast lift or implants. I have had a hysterectomy, so I will not be having children or breast-feeding in the future. The only reason I'd lean towards (small) implants is that I've read that a breast lift will gradually sag over time. Right now I'm most closely considering a Hall-Findlay Mastopexy which would shape the breast mound and the tissue.

Does anyone have any advice on which surgery option would result in the longest-lasting results?

And a bonus question: any recommendations for U.S. board certified plastic surgeons in Costa Rica? I live in San Jose. I also travel regularly to visit family in the U.S. in Los Angeles and Forth Worth.

Thanks!

posted by anonymous to Health & Fitness (9 answers total)

As a note of support ... After pregnancy and breastfeeding a friend's wife's breasts were basically destroyed. She ended up getting both a lift and implants and they are both exceptionally happy with the results.

In general, implants for deflated or sagging breasts without a lift will not really work out well.

That said, large breasts almost always have an area of overlap under the breast (large high profile implants can be the exception)..
posted by rr at 3:11 PM on June 20, 2010

I don't know how much research you've done, so you may have already heard this, but implants don't last forever, either. I think they have to be replaced every 20 years or so. I think it would be a good idea to check out how long each type of implant lasts before it expires.
posted by Ashley801 at 3:12 PM on June 20, 2010

Friend who had a breast lift at 26 (10 years ago or so) is very happy with the results. Friend who had (post mastectomy) implants (barely a B) seems to hate them because of loss of sensation -- not sure whether that's still as true with a garden-variety enhancement.
posted by chesty_a_arthur at 3:46 PM on June 20, 2010

Relative had implants following 3 kids and breast feeding. Actually had to convince the doctor that the small size she chose was ok. She is very, very happy. Hardest part was explaining to her 12 year old daughter after spending 12 years convincing the kid that she should be comfortable with her body regardless of its natural shape or size. Sort of a conflicting situation that.
posted by JohnnyGunn at 6:53 PM on June 20, 2010

I can't answer the to lift/not to lift question (though, were it an option for me, I'd certainly take it!) but as to the breast rash thing: I realize you've seen a doctor, but did he treat you for a yeast or fungal infection? I get rashes every so often and a dose or three of a Tinactin cream works wonders. (Okay, I don't use Tinactin specifically, but an odorless cream from my doctor).

Good luck!
posted by LOLAttorney2009 at 7:04 PM on June 20, 2010

If it were me, I would just get a lift and excercise my pecks to keep the boobs up. I think having larger breasts will eventually cause them to sag and overlap more.
posted by WeekendJen at 7:28 AM on June 21, 2010

I've heard experts say that the average length betwen surgeries for implants is only 7 years. Reasons include request of the patient (usually wanting a different shape, esp. as rest of body ages) and capsular contraction, a common complication caused by scar tissue forming around the implants.
This link is focused on breastfeeding but includes some general information about different types of surgery.
-Hannah
posted by Hannah @ Cooking Manager at 12:06 AM on June 22, 2010

I'd prefer not to have bigger boobs but would like breasts that don't droop.

It seems you've answered your own question. Go for the lift.
posted by owtytrof at 9:36 AM on June 22, 2010

Consult a plastic surgeon.

He/She will tell you whether or not you are a candidate for one or the other or both.

As a side note, some plastic surgeons will not give you implants without a lift if your nipples sag beyond your inframammary fold.
posted by ladybug_422 at 1:27 PM on July 9, 2010