Breast Lift

Cosmetic breast surgery has become one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world today. The vast majority of cosmetic breast procedures are for augmentation. However, the number of breast lifts (mastopexy) has also seen a significant surge in popularity.

Who would choose to have their breasts lifted?

Most people think a breast lift is requested more often by older women. However, the average age of patients choosing to have the procedure is only 39. This is just slightly older than those having augmentation and reduction procedures.

Why choose a breast lift?

As women age and/or have children, their breasts tend to lose fat and the breast tissue begins to thin. In most cases, when the breast tissue shrinks, the skin does not and the areola/nipple droops down below the inframammary crease. Lifting the nipple above the crease will restore a youthful look.

Will a breast lift affect nursing?

While it is possible to nurse after a breast lift, it is generally recommended that you wait. Should you become pregnant your breasts will swell and stretch the skin and you may lose the benefits of the procedure.

Can a breast lift be combined with another procedure?

Yes. Many patients who request a breast lift also want to have the fullness back. These patients usually decide to have implants as well. In certain instances, the augmentation will aid in stretching the skin, enabling your surgeon to do a breast lift with shorter scars. Other patients may require a breast reduction as well as a breast lift to restore the look they desire.

How is a breast lift performed?

Breast lifts are performed on an outpatient basis using a general or local anesthesia. A breast lift may take two hours depending on the complexity. Your surgeon may choose from a variety of surgical approaches. The most common approach, the “anchor” incision, is actually three incisions. The first incision is made around the areola. The next runs from the bottom of the areola down to the breast crease and the third incision follows the horizontal breast crease. Working through these incisions, excess skin is removed from the lower portion of the breast. Areolas that have been stretched over time can be resized and the tissue is repositioned to reshape the breast. The breast tissue and nipple are lifted into the higher position, and the nipple is repositioned.

Like many surgeries, the trend in breast lifts has been to smaller, shorter incisions resulting in less scarring. These smaller scar techniques include the “lollipop” incision which avoids the horizontal incision beneath the breast, and the “peri-areola” or “donut” incision around the areola which avoids both the vertical incision from the breast crease to the areola and the horizontal incision beneath the breast.

Which procedure is best for me?

After examining the size, shape, and sagging of your breasts and the size of your areolas, your surgeon will discuss the technique best suited for your procedure.

What about scarring?

The size and amount of scarring is different for every patient. However, the use of silicone sheathing, topical liquid silicone or laser treatments can greatly diminish the appearance of scars.

What is recovery like?

Bed rest is recommended for the first day. For the first few days following any breast surgery, you may be asked to wear surgical dressings or a special post-surgical garment. Most discomfort associated with breast surgery can be controlled with oral medication prescribed by your surgeon. Antibiotics may also be prescribed. Most women experience some degree of swelling, bruising and tenderness. These symptoms should subside in a short time. All sutures are removed within 1 - 2 weeks. Your surgeon will advise you on a proper schedule for returning to your normal activities. Most patients are back to work within the first week. Following your cosmetic breast surgery, you will enjoy a new, more pleasing shape, with more comfortable breasts that are in better proportion to your physique.

This information is intended to supplement, not replace, a consultation with a board certified physician. To find out if you could be a candidate for one of these procedures or to learn more information about these procedures, we invite you to contact one of our doctors for a private consultation.

Trademarks are property of their owners.
B & A photos may not be patients of the doctor featured in this web site.
Your results may differ. Copyright • 2002 • MJD Patient Communications
All rights reserved. Any reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited.