Breast Lift Surgery

About The Treatment

Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. The goal is to achieve a more youthful and uplifted breast contour, often restoring firmness and improving the position of the nipples and areolas.

Indications for Breast Lift Surgery

• Sagging breasts (ptosis) due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or genetics.

• Breasts that have lost shape and volume.

• Nipples that fall below the breast crease when unsupported.

• Enlarged or stretched areolas.

• Asymmetrical breasts.

Types of Breast Lift Techniques

Vertical (Lollipop) Lift:

• Suitable for women with moderate sagging.

• An incision is made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.

• Provides more significant lifting and reshaping.

• Leaves a scar around the areola and down to the breast crease.

  
  

Periareolar (Donut) Lift:

• Suitable for women with mild to moderate sagging.

• A circular incision is made around the areola.

• Allows for areola reduction and minor lifting.

• Leaves a scar around the circumference of the areola.

  
  

Crescent Lift:

• Suitable for women with minimal sagging.

• A small crescent-shaped piece of skin is removed above the areola.

• Leaves a small scar along the top half of the areola.

  
  

Anchor (Inverted-T) Lift:

• Suitable for women with significant sagging.

• Incisions are made around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease.

• Provides the most significant lift and reshaping.

• Leaves an anchor-shaped scar.

Procedure Steps

Consultation and Planning:

• Goals, expectations, and medical history is discussed with the surgeon.

• Physical examination and measurements of the breasts.

• Selection of the appropriate surgical technique based on the degree of sagging and desired outcome.

• Preoperative instructions, including guidelines for medications, smoking cessation, and health optimization.

  
  

Anesthesia:

• General anesthesia is typically used, ensuring the patient is asleep and pain-free during the procedure.

  
  

Incision Techniques for Breast Lift:

• Incisions are made according to the chosen technique.

• Excess skin is removed, and the underlying breast tissue is reshaped to achieve the desired contour.

• The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful location.

• The size of the areola may be reduced if necessary.

  
  

Closing the Incisions:

• Incisions are closed with sutures, and surgical tape or skin adhesives are used to support the closure.

• Dressings or bandages are applied to support the breasts during initial healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Initial Recovery:

• Patients typically stay in the surgical facility for a few hours to overnight.

• Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common.

• Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed.

• Wearing a surgical bra or compression garment helps minimize swelling and support healing.

  
  

Postoperative Care:

• Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and sleeping on their stomach for several weeks.

• Light activities can typically be resumed within a few days to a week.

• Follow-up visits with the surgeon to monitor progress, remove sutures, and ensure proper healing.

  
  

Long-Term Care:

• Results are typically visible within a few months as swelling subsides and tissues settle.

• Scarring is permanent but typically fades over time and can be minimized with proper care.

• Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle helps preserve results.

Benefits

• Restores a more youthful and uplifted breast contour.

• Improves breast firmness and shape.

• Enhances the position and size of the areolas.

• Boosts self-confidence and body image.

• Allows for better-fitting clothing and bras.

Risks and Complications

Scarring: 

• Permanent scars that may be prominent, especially if not properly cared for.

  
  

Changes in Sensation: 

• Temporary or permanent changes in nipple and breast sensation.

  
  

Asymmetry:

•  Possible differences in size, shape, or nipple position between the breasts.

  
  

Infection:

•  Risk of infection at the incision sites.

  
  

Healing Issues:

•  Poor wound healing or tissue necrosis, particularly in smokers or those with certain medical conditions.

  
  

Breastfeeding Challenges:

•  Potential challenges with breastfeeding after surgery, depending on the extent of tissue removal.

Candidate Suitability

Ideal Candidates:

• Individuals with sagging breasts and loss of volume.

• Patients seeking fuller, lifted breasts.

• Those in good overall health with realistic expectations.

• Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking before and after surgery.

  
  

Not Suitable For:

• Individuals with certain medical conditions that impair healing.

• Those with unrealistic expectations or seeking a minor change in breast shape (alternative treatments may be more appropriate).