Breast Lift with Implants

It is common for patients to inquire whether breast implants are necessary in conjunction with a breast lift procedure. For individuals with adequate skin elasticity and breast tissue, a breast lift (mastopexy) alone may suffice. Conversely, for those with diminished breast tissue or those seeking an increase in breast size, combining a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) with Breast Implants (Mammoplasty) often yields more satisfactory outcomes.

The appropriateness of breast implant dimensions, form, and composition will be determined during your consultation. This decision is based on several factors, including your physical anatomy, the degree of breast sagging (ptosis), and your personal preferences for breast shape and size. Collaborating closely with Dr. Drielsma will be pivotal in aligning the surgical approach with your desired results.

Additionally, concurrent nipple and areola corrective procedures can be performed to reposition the nipples as necessary during your mastopexy. Conditions such as inverted nipples, disproportionate nipple size, or nipple hypertrophy can be addressed and rectified as part of the surgical process.

What Type of Implants?

When considering Breast Lift (Mastopexy) with Implants (Mammoplasty), it is important to discuss the best type of implant for your body, desired size, and desired shape. There are a number of implants available in different sizes, shapes, and fillers.

Saline Filled Implants
Saline implants have a “water bed” feel and have been known to cause a “ripple effect” on the surface of the breast. This can occur when the patient has small amounts of breast tissue to begin with and the ripple of the saline within the implant can be seen on the skin surface.
This may be reduced by using smooth surfaced, round implants that are overfilled – within manufacturer specifications – resulting in an implant that is more firm to the touch. This can make the implant look more spherical or round, rather than a more natural teardrop shape.
However, if saline implants deflate, they do so quickly and the saline is easily absorbed by the body.

Silicone Gel Filled Implants
Silicone Implants are designed to have a more natural feel, similar to that of breast tissue. They are found to hold their shape better than saline implants and tend not to deflate. However, the accepted rupture rate for silicone implants is around 10% over 10 years, which will result in the need for removal or replacement of the implants.
There is also an increased risk of capsule contracture or hardening of the breast with silicone implants – again around 10% over 10 years.

Smooth Surfaced Implants
Smooth implants have a softer feel and are easier to insert. They most closely mimic the feel of real breast tissue.

Round Implants
Round implants are less natural looking than tear drop or anatomically shaped implants. These implants may give a better lift than naturally shaped implants or to create contrast between the upper and lower parts of the breast. If a round implant rotates in the breast pocket, it doesn’t tend to affect the breast shape.

Tear Drop or Anatomical Implants
Anatomical implants tend to be more versatile than round implants. The tear drop shape gives a more natural look to the breast and often better results depending on your desired outcome. However, if the implant rotates in the breast pocket, it needs to be repositioned to recover the natural shape of the breast.

What Size Implants?

Choosing a post-operative cup size doesn’t always mean you’ll fit exactly into that size; however, in general the goal is to augmentyour breasts to fit your body size, your skin elasticity, your lifestyle, and your desired look.

Dr Drielsma focuses on balance and body proportions when it comes to helping patients choose their final breast size and shape. Patients should consider their height, weight, chest width and the balance between their upper and lower body when deciding on their desired breast size.

There is no one size that fits all when it comes to choosing your breast implant size and final breast or cup size. It is best to discuss your options with Dr Drielsma in your personal consultations.

Every surgical procedure, including plastic surgery, inherently results in scarring. Adhering strictly to the prescribed post-operative care and recovery guidelines is essential for minimising the appearance of scars. The extent and nature of scarring are influenced by several factors, including the specific technique and incision employed, the inherent elasticity of your skin, and your body’s natural scarring tendencies. It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that individual results may vary.