What Is A Breast Lift?
Breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure performed to raise and reshape breasts that have sagged as a result of aging, pregnancy, weight loss, gravity or other factors. By trimming excess skin and tightening supporting tissue, patients can achieve an uplifted, youthful breast contour. After surgery, the breasts are higher on the chest and firmer to the touch. The nipple and areola can also be repositioned or resized during this procedure to further enhance the appearance of the breast.
Since a breast lift does not tend to give significant upper pole fullness, many patients choose to combine this procedure with a breast augmentation in order to achieve their desired results.
Am I A Candidate For A Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a safe and effective procedure for many women seeking to enhance the appearance of their drooping breasts, although there are certain restrictions on eligibility. The ideal candidates for a breast lift are women with:
- Sagging breasts
- Breasts that have lost shape or volume
- Breasts that are flat or elongated
- Nipples or areolas pointing downward
- One breast lower than the other
In addition to sagging breasts, it is also important for women considering this procedure to be in good overall health, maintain a stable weight and have realistic expectations for surgery. I recommend that women still planning to have children postpone this procedure, as pregnancy and nursing can counteract the effects of a breast lift.
Breast Lift Procedure
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia and usually takes one to three hours. Depending on the size and shape of the breasts, as well as the degree of sagging and amount of excess skin, I will determine an appropriate incision approach for the procedure, which may include:
- Two rings around the areola in a doughnut shape, which is ideal for women with small breasts and minimal nipple droop.
- Around the areola and down to the breast crease in a lollipop shape
- A lollipop shape with an additional incision along the breast crease for an anchor shape, ideal for breasts with significant sagging
After the incisions are made, breast tissue is removed and reshaped to achieve the desired breast contour. The nipple and areola may be moved higher on the breast or resized as well. Frequently, an absorbable mesh is used to enhance the lift and prevent recurrent sagging. Finally, any excess skin is trimmed to create a tighter, more defined appearance. When the breast lift is complete, the incisions are closed with absorbable stitches and tend to heal well.
What Is Recovery Like?
After a breast lift, patients will likely experience bruising, soreness and swelling for a few days. Most likely, patients may feel pain or soreness around the incision area. Numbness in the breasts and nipples is also normal and may last for several weeks. I will walk you through and concerns you may have to create a quick and painless recovery. The breasts will likely be in a surgical bra for about a week, followed by a support bra worn continuously for a month. Any stitches will be removed after one or two weeks. Most patients will be able to return to work within a week, although exercise and other strenuous activity should be avoided for about a month. I always provide specific instructions for your individual recovery.
How Long Does A Breast Lift Last?
The results of a breast lift are visible immediately after surgery and will continue to improve as swelling subsides and scars fade. Most patients, who maintain realistic expectations and thoroughly discussed their goals prior to surgery, are satisfied with the look of their lifted breasts. While results are not permanent, they will allow patients to enjoy a younger-looking appearance for many years to come.
Are There Any Risks Involved?
Although a breast lift is considered a safe procedure for ideal candidates, there are certain risks associated with any type of surgical procedure, which may include bleeding, infection, reaction to anesthesia or permanent scarring. Generally speaking the risk of complications is very low.
Click here to view Before & After pictures of the Breast Lift procedure
