Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Plastic Surgery Procedures

A breast lift procedure, also called a mastopexy, is one of the more commonly performed procedures in plastic surgery because of its ability to quickly and dramatically improve the appearance of a woman’s breast. Pregnancy, breast-feeding, weight fluctuations, aging, gravity, and genetics all have a significant impact on the volume, firmness, and symmetry of the breast. These breast changes can cause a woman to feel self-conscious and dissatisfied with their appearance. A mastopexy can reverse these breast changes by increasing the fullness and projection of the breast and elevating the nipple position, resulting in and enhanced self-image and increased self-confidence.

THE CONSULTATION

During your consultation, your medical history, drug allergies, current medications and smoking history will be reviewed and a detailed breast history will be obtained. For most patients, it is advisable to have a mammogram prior to surgery. Dr. Saar or Dr. O’Halloran will discuss why you want breast lift surgery, your expectations from surgery, and your desired outcomes.

Anytime a woman considers undergoing breast enhancement surgery, it’s natural to feel some anxiety, so don’t be shy about discussing these feelings during your consultation. Dr. Saar or Dr. O’Halloran will examine your breasts, including detailed breast measurements, skin quality, and nipple position. Based on these finding, your options for breast enhancement will be discussed. The various mastopexy procedures will be reviewed in detail including the surgical technique, likely outcomes, and any risks or potential complications associated with your surgery.

THE SURGERY

Breast lift surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, usually in an ambulatory surgery center, using general anesthesia. With general anesthesia you are completely asleep and do not feel any pain. In a mastopexy procedure, the position of the breast on the chest wall is elevated by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. Your breast lift procedure can be achieved through a variety of incision patterns and techniques.

The appropriate technique for you will be determined based on the following:

Some incision lines resulting from breast lift are concealed in the natural breast contours; however, others are visible on the breast surface. Incision lines are permanent, but in most cases will fade and significantly improve over time. Many women desire the smallest scar possible; however, Dr. Saar or Dr. O’Halloran will recommend the incisions which best suit your anatomy and desired outcome. Drains are not necessary, sutures are absorbable, and dressing can be removed in 24 hours. Typically, patients are able to return to work with in a few days after a mastopexy procedure, breast soreness usually resides after 1-2 weeks, and you may resume exercise in approximately 4 weeks. The results of your mastopexy surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve and incision lines will fade. Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover.

TYPES OF MASTOPEXY PROCEDURES

Periareolar - Incisions around the areola

Vertical - Incisions around the areola and vertically down from the areola to the breast crease

Modified Wise - Incisions around the areola, vertically down from the breast crease and horizontally along the breast crease

OTHER PROCEDURES

A mastopexy procedure does not provide exaggerated fullness or roundness in the upper breast and it does not enlarge the breast size. If you want larger breast or fullness in the upper part of the breast, you may also consider a breast enlargement (breast augmentation). Breast augmentation can usually be done at the same time as your mastopexy or in some cases a separate operation may be recommended. Dr. Saar or Dr. O’Halloran will assist you in making this decision.

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