Patients who lose a significant amount of weight often lose volume in their breasts. However, the skin envelope of the breasts may not shrink to the same degree as the breast tissue, leaving a deflated, saggy appearance. The breasts may appear flat on top with the nipple pointing down instead of straight out. Patients describe their breasts feeling “empty” or like a “bag of sand.”
The excess skin of the breasts after massive weight loss can be addressed with a mastopexy, or breast lift. In this operation, the excess skin is cut away, and the nipple is lifted to a more natural, youthful position. The breast tissue is then shaped, and the remaining skin is draped over the shaped breast and sutured back together. The goal of a mastopexy is to reposition the nipple, and add fullness and lift to the breast.
Some patients lose so much breast volume after massive weight loss that they require a breast augmentation with an implant in addition to a breast lift. The implant is often placed at the same time as the mastopexy; however, in certain instances, the operation needs to be staged to protect the skin.
Diane's Post Weight Loss Extended Tummy Tuck & Extended Breast Lift Testimonial
The scars from a mastopexy vary depending on how much skin needs to be removed. For massive weight loss patients, a large amount of skin excision is usually required. The resultant scar is around the areola, straight down to the inframammary fold, and across the inframammary fold, like an upside-down T or an anchor.
Complications are rare, but may include bleeding, infection, difficulty with wound healing, asymmetry, skin loss, seroma (fluid collection requiring a drain), prolonged numbness, hypertrophic scarring, and need for revision.
Why Choose PSIW for Breast Surgery After Weight Loss?
Breast reshaping after weight loss requires careful judgment and advanced surgical skill, which is why patients trust board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Douglas Forman at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington. With extensive experience in breast lifting and volume restoration, Dr. Forman tailors each procedure to restore proportion, support, and confidence. His meticulous technique and accredited surgical environment ensure safe treatment and naturally rejuvenated contours.
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