Breast Lift
Unfortunately, droopiness of the breast is a complaint many women have to deal this. For some, it is a problem they have always had to contend with, and others it is a legacy of pregnancy and motherhood. For most patients, age and time will stretch the supporting ligaments of the breast causing them to hang lower than in their youth
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, Mastopexy, is a procedure that aims to change the shape, contour, and size of the breasts and nipples - it is principally done to correct saggy boobs. This typically occurs due to age, weight loss, and most commonly pregnancy.
The breast lift is performed as a general anesthetic but does not involve an overnight stay. There are several ways to perform a lift. The goal of the lift is to place the nipple in an aesthetically ideal position and remove the wrinkled and sagging skin. The scars can either be around the nipple, in the shape of a lollipop, or in an anchor pattern. The choice of the scar is based on the amount of lift necessary and the area of skin to be excised. Most patients desire to want the least amount of scarring, but often this is not possible due to the limitations this would place on the final result
Who would benefit from the procedure
This procedure can benefit women who are unhappy with the appearance of their breasts due to factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or genetic factors.
The following are some of the specific situations where a breast lift procedure may be appropriate:
Sagging breasts due to aging: As women age, the skin and ligaments that support the breasts can become less elastic, causing the breasts to sag. A breast lift can help restore a more youthful appearance to the breasts.
Sagging breasts due to pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause the breasts to lose volume and sag. A breast lift can help restore the breasts to their pre-pregnancy shape.
Asymmetrical breasts: Some women may have breasts that are uneven in size or shape. A breast lift can help create a more symmetrical appearance.
Weight loss: Women who have lost a significant amount of weight may experience sagging breasts due to loss of skin elasticity. A breast lift can help restore the breasts to a more youthful position.
It's important to note that a breast lift is not designed to increase breast size or change the shape of the breasts significantly. Women who are looking to increase their breast size may want to consider a breast augmentation in addition to or instead of a breast lift.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo a breast lift procedure is a personal one and should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Faisal Salim who can help determine whether the procedure is appropriate for you.
Am I good candidate for the procedure
Determining whether or not you are a good candidate for a breast lift procedure will depend on a number of factors. It's important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Faisal Salim who can evaluate your individual case and provide you with personalized advice.
That being said, here are some general factors that may indicate whether or not you are a good candidate for a breast lift:
You are bothered by sagging breasts: If you are unhappy with the shape, position, or overall appearance of your breasts due to sagging, a breast lift may be a good option for you.
You are in good overall health: As with any surgery, it's important to be in good overall health before undergoing a breast lift procedure. Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your medical history to determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery.
You are at a stable weight: It's best to be at a stable weight before undergoing a breast lift procedure. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the results of the surgery. Do you have BMI<30
You are a non-smoker: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. If you smoke, your surgeon may advise you to quit several weeks before the procedure.
You have realistic expectations: It's important to have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. While a breast lift can improve the shape and position of your breasts, it may not be able to achieve a certain size or shape.
Again, the best way to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for a breast lift procedure is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They will be able to evaluate your individual case and provide you with personalized advice.
How do I prepare for breast lift procedure
- Avoid strenuous exercise one week prior to the breast lift procedure
- Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin and warfarin
- Avoid alcohol 1 day prior to the procedure
- The procedure is relatively pain-free, so it will not interfere too much with your daily activities
Breast Lift Recovery Time & Post-Op Care
Following the procedure, the patient will awaken with dressings on both breasts. The procedure is very superficial, so is not particularly painful. There may be some discomfort at the suture line, but this is easily controlled with pain killers
The patient will go home the same day with antibiotics and pain medication
The first post-operative check will be at 48 hours. The bra size will be measured and made available for collection the following day. The bra will have to be worn for 6 weeks
A further check will be made at 1, 2 and 4 weeks.
Patients are typically back to an office-based work environment within the first week
Exercise can resume at 6 weeks
Scar management will typically begin at 3 weeks
Scar therapy will commence at 4 weeks with silicone strips
The final result of the breasts will typically be seen at 6 months
FAQs
What are the risks of breast lift?
Like any surgery, breast lift carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, scarring, asymmetry, and difficulty breastfeeding. Other risks may include reaction to anesthesia, blood clots, or delayed wound healing. It is important to discuss these risks with a qualified surgeon before undergoing a breast lift procedure.
How long does the result of breast lift surgery last?
The results of breast lift surgery can be long-lasting, but they are not permanent. The duration of the results depends on various factors, such as the patient's age, weight changes, and pregnancy. Generally, a breast lift can provide improvement in breast shape and firmness for several years, but natural aging and gravitational effects can cause some sagging to return over time. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help prolong the results of the surgery.
Will I still be able to breastfeed after breast lift surgery?
Breastfeeding after a breast lift procedure is possible, but it depends on the surgical technique used and the extent of the surgery. Some techniques involve minimal incisions and do not affect the milk ducts or nerves involved in breastfeeding, while others may involve more extensive incisions that can potentially affect milk production and breastfeeding ability.
Can breast lift surgery be performed with breast augmentation?
Yes, breast lift surgery can be performed in conjunction with breast augmentation surgery. This combination procedure is called a breast lift with augmentation and is often recommended for women who not only have sagging breasts but also want to increase the size and fullness of their breasts. The surgery involves lifting the breasts and placing implants to enhance their volume and shape. It is essential to discuss your goals and expectations with a qualified surgeon to determine if a breast lift with augmentation is the right procedure for you.
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