Breast Lift - Mastopexy
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| Details Procedure Risk/Side Effects Recovery Results FAQ |
Picking up where nature lets down
While no surgery can permanently delay the effects of gravity, a breast lift is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts for a period of time. Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.
Details
If your breasts are small or have lost volume - after pregnancy for example - breast implants, inserted in conjunction with mastopexy, can increase both their firmness and size.
The best candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally stable women who are realistic about what this surgery can accomplish. Best results are usually achieved in women with small, sagging breasts. Breasts of any size can be lifted, but the results may not last as long in heavy breasts.
Many women seek mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing have left them with stretched skin and less volume in their breasts. However, if you're planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift.
Procedure
Raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning tissue and nipples.
Techniques vary, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision following the natural contour of the breast. The incision outlines the area from which breast skin will be removed and defines the new location for the nipple. When the excess skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are moved to the higher position. The skin surrounding the areola is then brought down and together to reshape the breast. Stitches are usually located around the areola, in a vertical line extending downwards from the nipple area, and along the lower crease of the breast.
Length: Mastopexy usually takes one and a half to three and a half hours.
Anesthesia: Breast lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you'll sleep through the operation. In selected patients - particularly when a smaller incision is being made - Dr. Patterson may use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy. You'll be awake but relaxed, and will feel minimal discomfort.
In/Outpatient: Your breast lift is usually performed on an outpatient basis in the surgery centre. It is sometimes performed on an inpatient basis.
Side-Effects / Risks
A breast lift is not a simple operation, but it's normally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications or a reaction to the anesthesia. Bleeding and infection following a breast lift are uncommon, but they can cause scars to widen. You can reduce your risks by closely following Dr. Patterson’s advice both before and after surgery.
Mastopexy does leave noticeable, permanent scars, although they'll be covered by your bra or bathing suit. (Poor healing and wider scars are more common in smokers). The procedure can also leave you with unevenly positioned nipples, or a permanent loss of feeling in your nipples or breasts.
Recovery
After surgery, you'll wear an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. Your breasts will be bruised, swollen and uncomfortable for a day or two, but the pain shouldn't be severe. Any discomfort you feel can be relieved with medications prescribed by the doctor.
Within a few days, the bandages or surgical bra will be replaced by a soft support bra. You'll need to wear this bra around the clock for three to four weeks, over a layer of gauze. The stitches will be removed after a week or two.
You can expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin, caused by the swelling after surgery. This numbness usually fades as the swelling subsides over the next six weeks or so. In some patients, however, it may last a year or more and occasionally may be permanent. Healing is a gradual process. Although you may be up and about in a day or two, don't plan on returning to work for a week or more, depending on how you feel. Avoid lifting anything over your head for three to four weeks. If you have any unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to call Dr. Patterson.
Results
Dr. Patterson will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. Still, it's important to remember that mastopexy scars are extensive and permanent. They often remain lumpy and red for months, then gradually become less obvious, sometimes fading eventually to thin white lines. Fortunately, the scars can usually be placed so that you can wear even low-cut tops.
You should also keep in mind that a breast lift won't keep you firm forever. The effects of gravity, pregnancy, aging and weight fluctuations will eventually take their toll again. Women who have implants along with their breast lift may find the results last longer.
If your expectations are realistic, chances are you'll be satisfied with your breast lift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is there any less extensive procedure for women with smaller breasts?
A. Some patients, especially those with relatively small breasts and minimal sagging, may be candidates for modified procedures requiring less extensive incisions. One such procedure is the "doughnut mastopexy" (or concentric mastopexy) in which circular incisions are made around the areola and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed.
Q. What can cause breasts to sag?
A. Gravity, pregnancy, breast feeding and weight gain are the main causes.
Q. Is breast lift surgery permanent?
A. A breast lift won't keep you firm forever. The effects of gravity, pregnancy, aging, and weight fluctuations will eventually take their toll again.
Q. Will scars be noticeable after the surgery?
A. Mastopexy does leave noticeable, permanent scars, although they'll be covered by your bra or bathing suit.
