Breast Lifts

Introduction to Breast Lifts

Breast lifts, also known as mastopexy, are a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape breasts that have sagged due to aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. This procedure helps to improve the appearance of the breasts, giving them a more youthful and firmer look. Women who are unhappy with their breast shape or position may consider getting a breast lift to enhance their overall appearance.

During a breast lift procedure, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to lift and reshape the breast tissue. The nipple and areola are also repositioned to a more youthful and natural location on the breast. Breast lifts can be combined with other procedures such as breast augmentation or reduction to achieve a more desired result.

Candidates for Breast Lifts

Not every woman is a suitable candidate for a breast lift procedure. Candidates for a breast lift should be in good overall health, with no underlying medical conditions that could affect the healing process. Candidates should also be non-smokers, as smoking can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

Women who may benefit from a breast lift include those who have:

1. Sagging or drooping breasts.
2. Lost breast volume due to pregnancy or weight loss.
3. Nipples that point downward or have shifted position on the breast.
4. Asymmetrical breasts, with one breast lower or larger than the other.
5. Stretched or sagging skin around the breasts.

It’s important for women to have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. A breast lift can improve the appearance of the breasts, but it will not drastically increase the size of the breasts or make them perfectly symmetrical.

Types of Breast Lifts 

There are different types of breast lifts, and the best option for each patient will depend on their individual needs and goals. The types of breast lifts include:

• Crescent Lift: This is the least invasive type of breast lift, in which a crescent-shaped piece of skin is removed from the top of the areola. This is a good option for women with minimal sagging.
• Peri-Areolar (Donut) Lift: This type of lift involves removing a donut-shaped piece of skin around the areola. It can be used for women with mild to moderate sagging.
• Vertical (Lollipop) Lift: This involves a lollipop-shaped incision around the areola and down to the breast crease. It’s ideal for women with moderate sagging.
• Anchor (Inverted T) Lift: This is the most invasive type of breast lift, involving an anchor-shaped incision that circles around the areola, extends vertically down to the breast crease, and then horizontally along the breast crease. It’s typically used for women with significant sagging and excess skin.

Your surgeon will help determine which type of breast lift is best for you based on the amount of sagging and excess skin you have, as well as your desired outcome.

Preparation for Breast Lifts

If you’re considering a breast lift, it’s important to properly prepare for the procedure. Here are some steps you should take before your surgery:

1. Choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
2. Schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon to discuss your goals, medical history, and any questions or concerns you may have.
3. Follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, such as avoiding certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding risks.
4. Quit smoking at least four weeks before your surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
5. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after your surgery and provide assistance with daily activities during your recovery.
6. Stock up on supplies you’ll need during your recovery, such as comfortable clothing, ice packs, and healthy foods.
7. Make arrangements to take time off work and other obligations to allow for adequate rest and recovery.

By properly preparing for your breast lift procedure, you can help ensure a safe and successful outcome.

The Breast Lift Procedure

Breast lift surgery is typically an outpatient procedure that takes about two to three hours to complete. Here’s what you can expect during the surgery:

• Anesthesia: You will be given either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation to ensure that you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
• Incisions: Your surgeon will make incisions in the appropriate areas based on the type of breast lift you’re having.
• Reshaping: Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to lift and reshape the breast tissue. The nipple and areola are also repositioned to a higher position on the breast.
• Closing the Incisions: Once the reshaping is complete, your surgeon will close the incisions using sutures.
• Recovery: You will be taken to a recovery room, where you will be monitored for a short period before being released to go home the same day.

After your breast lift surgery, you will likely experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. Your surgeon will provide instructions for caring for your incisions and managing your pain, and it’s important to follow these instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery.

Recovery from Breast Lifts

Recovery from a breast lift procedure typically takes several weeks, and it’s important to give yourself adequate time to heal. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:

1. Rest: Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks following your surgery. 
2. Medications: Take any prescribed pain medication as directed by your surgeon to manage discomfort.
3. Compression Garments: Wear a compression garment as instructed by your surgeon to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
4. Incision Care: Keep incisions dry and clean as directed by your surgeon, and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.
5. Sleep Position: Sleep on your back for several weeks following your surgery to reduce pressure on your breasts.
6. Diet: Eat a healthy and nutrient-rich diet to support your healing process, and avoid foods that may increase inflammation or interfere with postoperative healing.

It’s important to follow any postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon closely to ensure a safe and successful recovery from your breast lift procedure.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast lifts come with some risks and potential complications. It’s important to be aware of these risks before deciding to undergo the procedure. Some common risks associated with breast lift surgery include:

1. Changes in nipple or breast sensation
2. Infection
3. Bleeding or hematoma
4. Scarring
5. Poor wound healing
6. Anesthesia complications
7. Seroma (fluid accumulation)
8. Implant complications if combined with a breast augmentation

Being honest with your surgeon about your medical history and following all pre- and post-operative instructions can help minimize these risks. It’s important to understand that while risks are always present, most breast lift procedures are successful and result in a smoother, firmer, and more youthful appearance to the breasts.

Long-Term Results

The long-term results of a breast lift procedure can be long-lasting, but they are not permanent. Factors such as aging, gravity, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can all contribute to changes in breast shape and position over time.

To maintain the best possible results from your breast lift surgery, it’s important to live a healthy lifestyle, maintain a stable weight, and avoid smoking. These factors can help minimize the effects of aging and gravity on the breasts, preserving the results of your lift procedure for as long as possible.

In some cases, a revisional breast lift procedure may be necessary to maintain satisfactory results over time, but this will vary for each patient. Your surgeon can provide guidance on the best ways to maintain your breast lift results over the long term.

Cost of Breast Lifts

The cost of a breast lift procedure can vary based on a number of factors, including your geographical location, the experience and qualifications of your surgeon, and the type of breast lift you’re having. In general, the cost of a breast lift can range from $3,500 to $6,000 or more.

It’s important to note that insurance typically does not cover the cost of cosmetic procedures like breast lifts, as they are considered elective. However, some patients may be able to obtain financing or payment plans to help them afford the cost of the procedure.

When considering the cost of a breast lift procedure, it’s important to remember that choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is crucial to achieving good results and minimizing the risk of complications. It’s worth investing in a reputable surgeon to ensure the safety and success of your breast lift procedure.

Final Thoughts

A breast lift procedure can help improve the appearance of your breasts, giving them a firmer, more youthful look. It’s important to carefully consider whether a breast lift is right for you and to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure.

By taking steps to properly prepare for your procedure, following all post-operative instructions, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can help ensure a safe and successful outcome. While risks and complications are always present, most breast lift procedures are successful and result in a more pleasing breast appearance.

If you’re considering a breast lift, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and options. With proper research, planning and aftercare, a breast lift can be a rewarding and confidence-enhancing procedure for many women.

References:

1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2021). Breast Lift. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift

2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Breast Lift. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-lift/about/pac-20393218

3. American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. (2020). Breast Lift. Retrieved from https://www.smartbeautyguide.com/procedures/breast/breast-lift/

4. MedlinePlus. (2020). Breast Lift. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002984.htm

5. International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. (2021). Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy). Retrieved from https://www.isaps.org/procedures/breast/breast-lift-mastopexy/”