Yes, it can help to some degree. A lift would be the best way to even them out. But the dual plane approach (elevating the breast off the muscle a bit during the surgery) can make small changes. I doubt with implants alone you'll be perfectly symmetrical, but no one is anyway. Good luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is possible to improve the appearance of asymmetries with implants. It is quite common to use different sizes to balance out your breasts. In your case, it might be suggested that your nipples be repositioned as well.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Differences between breasts are normal. When the difference is severe, different sizes and volumes of breast implants are often necessary to make the volumes equal in clothes. To get the nipples the same height, most of the time they need to be repositioned with a mastopexy. This usually leaves a scar around the areola, and maybe a vertical scar too. Scarring depends on how different and how big you are going. The mastopexy with breast augmentation can be done in one surgery.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No two breasts are identical before or after childbirth or surgery. However, through exam with measurements and photos it is best to make as accurate an assessment as possible pre op to decide if adjustments are appropriate to attempt to improve on any asymmetries. Two common means of adjusting nipple height are through adjusting the implant volume, shape or positioning and through various types of breast lifts ("mastopexy") involving incisions around the nipple/areola to move the position slightly upwards or left or right to improve differences.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Patient concerns regarding the appearance of their breasts can typically be divided in two pools: volume, ptosis (droop). The procedures to address these issues are as different as the issues themselves. However, these concerns are not mutually exclusive (some want smaller less droopy breasts and others want larger less droopy breasts).

There are two factors which can help to answer the question of which surgery will deliver the most satisfying result: mastopexy, augmentation or both. Patients must first consider the position of the NAC (nipple areolar complex i.e. the pigmented portion of the breast) as it relates to the inframammary crease. If the nipples are at or below the level of the crease the patient may benefit from a lift or mastopexy. The breast lift is designed to elevate sagging breasts to a more youthful position. It also helps to reshape and tighten the skin of the breasts. This is typically accomplished via a periareolar (around the nipple) incision with or without a vertical incision.

Mastopexy is an effective way to address sagging breast, however, the changes which accompany weight loss or pregnancy can also decrease volume of the breasts. When a woman wants the volume restored, or increased, a breast augmentation will also be needed in conjunction with mastopexy. Augmentation can help restore the volume loss which is well known to women following children. There are a number of options available to women considering augmentation ranging from size and implant type to access incision.

A breast augmentation alone may be appropriate if ptosis is mild. If the patient is comfortable with the natural appearance of the breasts but desires them to be larger, a breast augmentation alone is the right procedure. Augmenting significantly ptotic or sagging breasts tends to magnify the problem. In these cases, a mastopexy performed in conjunction with an augmentation is preferred.

You might consider a subglandular augmentation. This can offer a sort of pesudolift as the mound rotates on the implant. However, you will need to go larger and accept everything that goes along with a subglandular augmentation (rounder more augmented looks, increased risk of contracture). Ultimately, if your truly need a lift, an implant alone will not suffice.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No, breast implants will not change the position and differences of the nipples. In fact, quite the contrary, it will make the difference much more obvious. You would need an adjustment of the nipple position at same surgery. You should ask your surgeon about this and if he/she says otherwise, get another opinion for you will be very disappinted!

Published on Jul 11, 2012