Breast Lift surgery, or Mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to lift the
sagging droopy breast and give it a more aesthetic shape and position without
altering the size. The most common reason women choose this operation is
to “perk†the breasts up again after child bearing. After child bearing the
breasts get larger with breast feeding, then shrink and sag. With breast lift
surgery the nipple is elevated back to position and the rest of the extra skin
is removed. This essentially tightens the breast and fills up the superior
portion producing cleavage.
There are different types of lifts available with different incision patterns.
This should be discussed with a plastic surgeon in consult prior to surgery.
The most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision and stitches are usually placed around the areola, in a vertical line extending downwards
from the nipple area, and along the lower crease of the breast.
Another technique that could be an option for those with small breasts and minimal sagging is the “doughnut mastopexy,” where circular incisions are
made around the areola, and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed.
An implant may also be added to a lift to increase size, if so desired.
The surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis. You will feel discomfort,
but any pain can be controlled with medication. You can expect your chest to
be bruised, swollen and ache and this can last for a few weeks.
The results of a breast lift are instantaneous but the final result will
not be seen until swelling has reduced.Your surgeon will give you specific recovery instructions but usually you will be asked to rest for the first week.
You will probably be instructed not to participate in strenuous activities for
2 – 4 weeks.
Approximate Cost : $4,000 – $6,000
Recovery: 1 – 2 weeks
Possible complications: Bruising and numbness is common, rare risk of:
infection, assymetry, permanent numbness, raised scarring.