Breast Augmentation after Bariatric Surgery

Breast reconstruction may be required after significant weight loss to improve body image in patients. Learn how to tell which is needed: breast lift or breast augmentation.

Massive weight loss following bariatric surgery (or severe dieting) can greatly affect the appearance of breasts: composed mainly of fatty tissue, breasts can deflate and sag. Body contouring procedures enhancing breast appearance include breast lift (mastopexy) and breast augmentation (augmentation mammaplasty).

Breast Lift, Breast Augmentation or Combination of Both?

The breast lift is a cosmetic surgery to raise the bust line and remove excess skin. Breast lift surgery is usually performed on women who feel comfortable about their breast size.

During the breast lift, nearby discard tissue can be used to enlarge breasts (the technique is called spiral flap); however, when further enlargement is required, breast lift is combined with breast augmentation involving saline-filled or silicone gel-filled implants. The implants are also used to round out the breasts (so that they do not be flat on top) and to improve the symmetry of the breasts. During breast augmentation surgery, implants are placed under the breast tissue or, most often, under the chest muscle.

Breast lift or breast augmentation can be performed only when weight loss is stable. Breast augmentation can be done at the same time as breast lift, though a staged approach is also worth considering. You may be satisfied with the size of your breast after spiral flap and thus avoid the need for implants. You should discuss your particular case with a certified surgeon specializing in body contouring and post bariatric plastic surgery.

References:

• Dennis J. Hurwitz, Dinakar Golla. Breast Reshaping after Massive Weight Loss
• Medline Plus: Breast lift
• Mayo Clinic: Breast implants: Saline vs. silicone

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