Considering a breast lift (mastopexy)? Find out what to expect, from the reasons women choose this surgery to reshape sagging breasts caused by pregnancy, weight loss, aging, and genetics, to surgical techniques, recovery, and potential risks.
Breast lift surgery (or Breast Mastopexy) is a cosmetic surgery to lift and reshape the breasts. It involves removing excess skin around the breasts and tightening the surrounding tissue to lift them. This gives the breasts a more youthful and perky appearance. Let’s dive into the details of breast lift surgery in this article:
What’s the point of a breast lift?
Some women opt for breast lift surgery because their breasts have sagged and lost their natural shape. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:
1. Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding
After pregnancy, the ligaments that support the breasts can stretch as the breasts become fuller and heavier. This stretching can lead to sagging.</
Furthermore, repeated pregnancies can exacerbate sagging.
2. Significant weight loss
Major weight loss can also lead to sagging, as the breasts lose volume, and the skin stretches to accommodate the larger size.
3. Aging
Breasts can sag with age due to the loss of skin elasticity and the effects of gravity.
4. Genetic factors
Large breasts can put a strain on the supporting ligaments, leading to sagging and changes in shape and volume.
Along with the factors listed above, genetics can also play a role in determining the strength of the ligaments in the breasts and their elasticity, which contributes to sagging.
What to do before a breast lift?
Before undergoing a breast lift, here’s what you’ll typically do:
Discuss your goals for the surgery with your doctor, as well as your overall health.
Your doctor will explain the details of the surgery, including how to prepare for it, the techniques used, potential risks, and the expected results after surgery.
The patient should avoid smoking 3-4 weeks before the surgery and adhere to a healthy diet.
The patient should provide the doctor with a detailed medical history, especially regarding family history of breast cancer.
How Breast Lift Surgery Is Performed
Breast lift surgery is generally performed in hospitals or surgical centers under general anesthesia. It typically takes 2-4 hours, and patients usually go home the same day.
The surgeon will follow these steps:
Marks are drawn to indicate incisions and determine the new position of the nipple on the breast.
The patient is put under general anesthesia.
Incisions are made using several techniques that vary from one woman to another, but these are the most common:
An incision around the areola of the breast.
An incision from the areola down to the crease of the breast.
An incision along the length of the breast.
Excess skin is removed, and the nipple is lifted to reshape the breast, aiming to improve its appearance.
The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape.
Recovering From Breast Lift Surgery
The recovery period after surgery usually takes several weeks. It’s important to rest and avoid strenuous activities during this time. Typically, pain is minimal, and over-the-counter pain relievers are sufficient.
Right after surgery, the patient will be fitted with supportive bandages to minimize swelling and support the breasts during healing. The surgeon will remove drains within the first day or two.
After 2-3 weeks, the surgeon will remove all sutures and assess the appearance of the breasts while healing properly.
Risks of Breast Lift Surgery
Complications after surgery are relatively rare, but here are some possible issues:
Infection.
Bleeding.
Changes in sensation in the breasts and nipples.
Uneven shape or size of the breasts.
Scarring.
Testimonials
Getting a breast lift was a wonderful decision! It’s not just about looks; it’s about feeling like myself again. The procedure was smoother than I imagined, and the results have truly boosted my confidence. If you’re considering it, do your research and talk to your doctor—it might just be the positive change you’re looking for!
FAQ
Is breast lift surgery painful?
Typically, pain is minimal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does it take to recover from breast lift surgery?
The recovery period usually takes several weeks. It’s important to rest and avoid strenuous activities during this time.
Myth & Facts
Myth: Breast lift surgery will affect breastfeeding.
Fact: While there can be changes in sensation, most women can still breastfeed after a breast lift.
