Breast Questions and Answers

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A: Hi Paulette, It is not uncommon for one breast to develop first, but the pain is not typical. I recommend getting her checked out to be sure everything is ok. Best, Eve

Q: I think I've got the idea of the difference between high or moderate-plus profile, but when I see a description say just smooth round or just moderate is that the same as low profile? Does the order go high, moderate-plus, low, or does the order go high, moderate-plus, moderate, then low? I'm scheduled to get low profile 575 complete unders and I want to be sure of what I'm getting. The low profile makes better cleavage right? But I do want projection also. Can't I have both? I am currently a 34 nearly A. Beth

A: Hi Beth, The order is high, moderate-plus, moderate, low. Low profile implants are generally indicated for women with a wide frame and broad shoulders. They project the least of all implant styles. For a 34A, I would not recommend them, but to each their own taste. Yes, they do provide cleavage, but on a small frame might look strange. This has been my experience in dealing with various styles during my entire surgical career. Best, Eve

Q: Hi again, I was reading your Q and A, and I thought this one sounds familiar, and lol it was me! Thanks for the quick response. I'm hoping that if I give you a few more details, maybe you can shed a little more light on my problem. I know that low profiles are for people with wide frames, but is my frame wide? My shoulders are 41cm across and my BWD is 17-18cm across. I'm 5'5" and weigh 125 pounds. Everyone knows I'm getting a boob job, so I don't mind the full roundness. I'm just curious as to how high or moderate-plus will look after they are completely dropped. All the photos I've seen are 3months out. Thanks, Beth

A: Hi Beth, Typically, high profiles are designed for thin, narrow framed women, while low are designed for stout, wide framed women. To me, you seem more on the "normal" side, maybe leaning towards smaller rather than larger. The vast majority of implants used are moderate profile, since this fits most women well. The other options are provided for the exceptions to the rule, not the rule...Going with the industry standard is not a bad thing. I recommend getting a few surgical opinions from quality doctors who will understand the exact look you are trying to achieve and then make a recommendation. I hope this info helps. Best, as always, Eve

Q: I need a breast lift in one of my breasts since I had a mastectomy in the other, so they will both match in the second phase of my reconstruction. I am afraid of loosing the sensation in the breast after the surgery. What are my chances that the sensation in the nipple will remain the same as it is now or are the chances great that I would loose the sensation. This is the only thing that is holding me back from having the breast lift. Please help me with information on this. Thank you. Bonnie

A: Hi Bonnie, The skill or the surgeon and particulars of the chosen procedure will influence nipple sensation post-operatively more than any other factors. Typically, a skilled surgeon should be able to preserve full sensitivity. The key is hiring the right doctor for the job. They need to have extensive experience and patience, so keep this in mind during your consultation process. The vast majority of women who undergo breast lift continue to enjoy nipple sensitivity as before, so the odds are certainly in your favor. Best, Eve, BPS.ORG

Q: I am 36 year old and one of my breast have never developed. I now know it's called Hypomastia/Hypoplasia. The one that did develop is very small but I'm happy with the size. My question is it be corrected without implants? (Removing fat from another part of my body and injecting it in the breast) Like reconstruction after breast removal surgery? If so, how much does it cost? Thanks, Dana

A: Hi Dana, The fat injection procedure is problematic in many cases and might not be appropriate for every woman. I recommend consulting with a doctor concerning your own particular case. You might also be able to benefit from the BRAVA system, but with no breast at all, this also might be a challenge. I would consult with a cosmetic surgeon and ask them about the best non-surgical options for you. Best, Eve, BPS.ORG

Q: I am now almost 4 weeks post-op with BA underarm pit, axillary. That night of my procedure, my right side deflated (which he said has never happened to him) by a defective implant.I had it replaced the next day. Since I came out of anesthesia the first time, my left breast has always been very, very painful on the outside. I noticed I was unable to left left arm well due to what looks like a ligament extending from my scar. My left underarm and outside of breast has been so painful, I am taking meds every 4 hours around the clock. I have not been able to sleep. I have wanted a BA for 15 yrs ( I am 42 yr old with 3 children now in college) and was so excited, and now I hurt so bad I don't know if it was worth it. My breast look great ( pre 32AAAA now post 32C-D) I have discussed this numerous times with my PA and he totally blows me off. He just says its normal and will resolve over time. I am a labor and delivery nurse and need to return to work, but I feel that I am still unable to All my friends recovered in a week to 2 weeks top. I am going for a second opinion next week. He is offering no explanation or comfort. I feel like a complainer, but I am in severe pain about 70% of the time on left side. What do I do??? Angela

A: Hi Angela, It sounds like you have mondor's cord. Is this the condition which is affecting you? If so, the PA is right, it will resolve in a few weeks. It can be very sore and sensitive in the meantime. My article on the condition provides some advice on symptomatic treatment. I advise you check that out. If this is not the condition you have, I definitely recommend going to a new doctor for a second opinion. Best, Eve, BPS.ORG

Q: I have capsular contraction of my right breast. It's been 18 years since reconstruction. There was radiation of that breast before mastectomy. Now the breast is quite hard and uncomfortable. I saw a plastic surgeon and he recommended capsulotomy to release the scar tissue. He said this would be an outpatient procedure with no drains needed. Is this outpatient aspect wise? What is the likelihood of the contracture returning? I also cannot find any info on this doctor other than his own web site. How do I check him out? How do I find other plastic surgeons to consult? Sherry

A: Hi Sherry, Capsulotomy means different things to different people. You better clarify exactly what he intends to do in this procedure. The best method is surgical removal of the entire scar capsule, preferably in one piece. Close capsule procedures are NOT recommended. There is really no way to determine if the contracture will come back. There are simply too many factors to consider...

I do not know where you live, but your IP comes up as Corpus Christi, Texas. If this is right, you can check with the Texas health dept website. they should have links to other sites to check for misconduct or complaints against all licensed professionals, including plastic surgeons. You can also contact the medical boards if this surgeon is board certified and check on the credentials in this manner. You can also ask the medical board for a referral in your area. You can also find other surgeons simply by doing a GOOGLE search using the terms "plastic surgeon" "cosmetic surgeon" or "breast reconstruction" and the locations where you live. (example Corpus Christi plastic surgeon) I hope this info helps you, Eve BPS.ORG

Q: Hello, I am considering breast implants later this year. I am a 44 year old mother of 2. I went for a consultation and my doctor suggested high profiled textured silicone implants. Also a crescent lift inserting the implant subglandular. Is there a difference in high profile and teardrop shaped as I heard they move? What do you think of the doctors suggestions as I hear keep hearing difference in opinions and my mind is going crazy.Thanks, Brenda

A: Hi Brenda, Comparing high profile and tear drop are like comparing apples and oranges. Profile describes how far the implant projects off the chest wall. It has nothing to do with shape. Tear drop is a shape, as opposed to round, which is far more common. In my experience, round is better and more natural looking and will not have the potential to spin or rotate as you describe. Round, high profile would be indicated for a woman who wants increased forward projection and decrease width. This is perfect for a woman with a smaller, thinner frame. I hope this info helps. Good luck in deciding on the best implant for you and let us know how it turns out if you actually undergo a procedure. Best, Eve, PBS.ORG

BREAST Q & A ARCHIVE