Breast Lift

As a woman ages, the breasts begin to lose their youthful shape, position, and firmness.  Descent of the breasts is a natural process that occurs over time due to the effects of aging and gravity.  A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a procedure designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts allowing the restoration of a more youthful appearance. This procedure is more complex than augmentation and thus takes more time to complete.  A breast lift may also be performed in conjunction with breast enlargement surgery (breast augmentation).

Reasons to choose a breast lift:

• Lift sagging breasts caused by the effects of aging and gravity
• Firm the breasts if they have lost substance due to pregnancy and breast feeding
• After massive weight loss, a breast lift, with or without an implant, will restore the natural suppleness of the breasts

General Procedure:

The breast lift procedure may be performed utilizing various techniques depending on your breast shape, how much the breasts droop, and how much enhancement you desire.
A popular procedure involves an anchor-like incision along the underside of the breast.  The incision goes around the areola as well.  The excess skin is removed and the remaining breast tissue, nipple, and skin are repositioned.

There are several other popular techniques that are tailored to specific breast shapes. Some of these include the “short-scar”, “periareolar” and “Passot” breast lifting techniques.  After examination, the surgeon will discuss the options most suitable to meet your needs and expectations.

Recovery Process:
Detailed instructions will be given to the patient prior to surgery, but generally call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time.  Bandages and a support bra are placed on the incisions after surgery.  The specialized bra will be worn for several weeks.  No under wire bra is used during this process.  Discomfort will be treated with oral pain medications.  This improves after several days.  The breasts are swollen initially and will improve gradually during the recovery process.  While complications are infrequent, it is important to review the potential risks with your doctor.  Patients can help minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given by the physician prior to surgery.