Re-lift

Breast lifts are a cosmetic surgery procedure that many women undergo to lift and reshape sagging breasts. However, over time, some women may find that their breast lift results are not as satisfactory as they once were. This can lead to the need for a re-lift surgery. In this article, we will discuss what a re-lift surgery entails and what to expect if you are considering one.

Understanding Breast Lift Surgery

Before we dive into the topic of a re-lift surgery, it’s essential to understand what a breast lift surgery entails. During a breast lift surgery, excess skin is removed, and the breasts are reshaped to create a more youthful, lifted appearance. This is achieved by relocating the nipple and areola to a higher position, removing excess skin, and tightening the breast tissue.

Breast lifts are often performed on women who have experienced pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight fluctuations, or aging, which can cause the breasts to sag. The result of a breast lift is firmer and uplifted breasts, which can improve self-esteem and confidence.

However, breast lift surgery is not a permanent solution, and over time, some women may experience sagging again, leading to the need for a re-lift surgery.

Reasons for a Re-Lift Surgery

There are several reasons why a woman may opt for a re-lift surgery after having a breast lift surgery. These reasons include:

1. Aging: As a woman ages, the skin loses elasticity, which can cause the breasts to sag again.
2. Weight fluctuations: If a woman experiences significant weight fluctuations, this can cause the breast tissue to stretch and sag.
3. Pregnancy: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also cause the breasts to sag, even after a breast lift surgery.
4. Poor healing or scarring: In some cases, poor healing or scarring can affect the results of a breast lift surgery and may require a revision surgery.
5. Dissatisfaction with initial results: Sometimes, a woman may not be satisfied with the results of her initial breast lift surgery and may want to improve the appearance of her breasts through a re-lift surgery.

When is the Ideal Time for a Re-Lift Surgery?

It’s essential to allow enough time to pass between your initial breast lift surgery and your re-lift surgery. Most plastic surgeons recommend that you wait at least one year after your initial breast lift surgery before considering a re-lift surgery. This allows enough time for the tissues to heal and settle into their final position before undergoing another procedure.

It’s also important to note that a re-lift surgery is a more complex surgery than an initial breast lift surgery, mainly because there is already scar tissue present. It’s essential to choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who has experience with revision surgeries to help you achieve the best possible results.

What to Expect During a Re-Lift Surgery

During a re-lift surgery, the plastic surgeon will remove the previous scar tissue, and excess skin, and will reposition the nipple and areola to a more natural-looking location. The surgeon may also use various techniques to reshape the breasts, such as adding implants or adjusting the underlying breast tissue. The exact procedure will depend on the individual needs and goals of each patient.

Re-lifts surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia, and patients will need to arrange for someone to drive them home afterward. Recovery time will vary based on the extent of the surgery, but patients should plan for at least a few weeks of downtime, during which they will need to avoid strenuous activity and wear a supportive bra. It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure the best possible outcome.

Risks and Complications of a Re-lift Surgery

While a re-lift surgery can provide excellent results, there are risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure. Some of the potential risks and complications of a re-lift surgery include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Scarring
• Poor wound healing
• Numbness in the nipples or breasts
• Asymmetry

It’s important to discuss the potential risks and complications with your plastic surgeon before undergoing a re-lift surgery. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon can help minimize these risks and ensure that you achieve the best possible results.

Recovery after a Re-Lift Surgery

Recovery after a re-lift surgery can take several weeks, and it’s essential to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. Most patients will need to wear a supportive bra for several weeks after surgery to help minimize swelling and promote healing. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks after surgery.

Patients may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising after surgery. Pain medication and cold compresses can help manage these symptoms. Patients should also avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, as these habits can interfere with the healing process.

Patients should attend all follow-up appointments with their plastic surgeon to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns that may arise. It’s important to be patient during the recovery process and to allow enough time to pass before assessing the final results of the surgery.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is essential to achieving the best possible results from a re-lift surgery. It’s important to find a surgeon who is board-certified in plastic surgery and who has experience with revision surgeries. Asking for referrals from friends or family members who have undergone plastic surgery can also be helpful.

During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will assess your needs and determine if you are a good candidate for a re-lift surgery. They will also explain the procedure in detail and provide an estimate of the costs involved.

It’s essential to feel comfortable with your plastic surgeon and to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon will be happy to address your concerns and ensure that you are fully informed about the procedure before agreeing to undergo surgery.

Expected Results of a Re-Lift Surgery

While the results of a re-lift surgery can vary from patient to patient, most patients can expect firmer and more youthful-looking breasts. The nipple and areola will also be repositioned to a more natural-looking location, and the breasts will be reshaped to create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

It’s essential to have realistic expectations about the results of a re-lift surgery. While the surgery can address sagging and improve the appearance of the breasts, it’s not a permanent solution. The aging process, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can all affect the results over time.

By choosing a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon and following all post-operative instructions carefully, patients can enjoy excellent results from a re-lift surgery and improve their self-esteem and confidence.

Conclusion

A re-lift surgery can be an excellent option for women who have previously undergone a breast lift surgery and are experiencing sagging or dissatisfaction with their initial results. By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon and following all post-operative instructions, patients can achieve firmer, more youthful, and more aesthetically pleasing breasts.

While a re-lift surgery does involve risks and complications, choosing a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon can help minimize these risks and ensure that patients achieve the best possible results.

If you are considering a re-lift surgery, it’s important to have realistic expectations about the results and to allow enough time for healing and recovery. With the right care and attention, a re-lift surgery can be an excellent way to enhance your appearance and improve your self-confidence.

References:

1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Breast Lift,” https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift.
2. Nnadi RO, Shaaban A, Ashraf A, Jacombs A. “Secondary Breast Reduction Mammaplasty: Prevalence of Indications and Reoperation.” Plastic Surgery (Oakv). 2016;24(4):241-245. doi:10.1177/229255031602400408
3. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. “Breast Lift Surgery: What to Expect,” https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/breast/breast-lift-guide/.
4. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Breast Lift Risks and Safety,” https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift/safety.
5.  Lee C, Wilkins EG. “Revisional breast surgery.” Clin Plast Surg. 2009;36(1):89-100. doi:10.1016/j.cps.2008.08.003.