Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy)

CONSIDERING BREAST LIFT SURGERY

Breast lift surgery is requested more and more frequently by our patients today because of the outstanding results that can be achieved. As we age - we all experience loss of skin elasticity (stretched skin) due to gravity and /or breast feeding, weight loss and pregnancy - causing our breasts to lose their shape and firmness. With our refined techniques and state-of-the-art procedures, we can lift to correct sagging and "reshape" your breasts to restore a more "youthful contour." If you're considering a breast lift - you may also want to consider breast implants at the same time to add fullness and breast volume.

Are you a good candidate for breast lift surgery?
If you're o.k. with the size of your breasts and are in good health, a breast lift can raise and firm sagging, stretched breasts and restore a more "youthful" contour.

Your initial breast lift surgery visit or consultation.
During your consultation many things will be taken into consideration including your age, breast size and shape, skin condition, overall health and your expectations. Realistic expectations and goals are important to achieve a good outcome.

Preparing for breast lift surgery.
This will involve a set of instructions we will give you that you need to follow completely and precisely. This will include what medications, vitamins and herbs are o.k. to take and what you should not take; diet, use of alcohol and smoking.

Have a responsible adult drive you to and from our office the day of your surgery and stay with you overnight. Please arrange in advance for someone to do this for you.

BREAST LIFT PROCEDURE OVERVIEW

The breast lift techniques used will vary patient by patient. We use one of three techniques: inverted-T incision, vertical "lollipop" incision, and periareolar "doughnut" incision. You and the Doctor will make the choice that's best for you.

• Inverted T incision - the most commonly used - is an incision that follows the natural contour of the breast up to the nipple. After you're anesthetized, the incision will be made which "outlines" the breast area and skin to be removed and defines the new location for the nipple. After removing excess skin, the nipple and areola are moved to their new higher position, surrounding skin is brought down and together to reshape the breast. Stitches are usually around the areola, in a vertical line down from the nipple area and along the lower breast crease.
• Vertical Lollipop is used for patients requiring a "moderate lift" or skin resection. Using a smaller incision, Doctor will make an incision around the areola and straight down to the breast crease but not in the crease itself. The incision is made after you're anesthetized. This incision also "outlines" the breast area from skin is to be removed and "defines" the new location for your nipple. After excess skin is removed, the nipple and areola are moved to their new higher position and the incision is closed (with stitches located the same as for Inverted T) - thus giving your breast "its new contour."
• The Doughnut or periareolar procedure is used when there is minimal sagging. The small incisions are made around the areola and this procedure is most commonly done in conjunction with breast augmentation (implants). After you're anesthetized, Doctor will make the incision on your breast around the areola, remove a doughnut shaped area of skin, insert your new implant (if you're having that done) and then the skin surrounding the areola will be brought together to reshape your breast and stitches will close the incision. The results are a "new shapelier, contoured breast."

Where breast surgery is performed and how long it will take.
We perform all our procedures at the Hawthorne Surgical Center State-of-the-Art Facilities. These breast lift procedures usually take from one to three or more hours depending on what you're having done.

Breast lift recovery.
After your surgery - you will be cared for and kept comfortable in a recovery area until we determine you are ready to go home. If you experience any discomfort you will be given medication - pain is usually minimal during recovery.

What to expect after your breast lift surgery.
You may experience some minimal discomfort, bruising and swelling around the incision site - you will be given pain medication in recovery and for use at home. This normally lasts a day or two. Numbness, swelling and bruising are normal and will fade a little each day. Rest, fluids and a good diet will help with healing.

Getting back to normal after breast lift surgery.
Our patients are usually back to work within a week - but don't expect to be totally back to normal for two to three weeks. You will be required to wear a surgical support bra and limit vigorous activities for several weeks. Usually by the third week - you should look and feel much better.

Even though no procedure lasts forever - the new "firmer" more "contoured" look you will own - can be enjoyed for a long time