|
Return to our main site
Breast Lift Procedure Description:
Over time, gravity pulls all body tissues downward and the breasts are no exception. Breast Lift, with or without the placement of breast implants, or ‘Mastopexy’ procedures help to lift and reshape the breasts giving them a more aesthetic and natural shape without reducing their size.
There are several different types of Breast Lift/mastopexy. The approach appropriate for you will be determined at the time of your consultation with Dr. Klainer. The three most common types of breast lift incisions are around the areola only, around the areola and vertically down from the areola to the breast crease and around the areola vertically down from the areola to the breast crease and horizontally along the breast crease. Depending on the patient’s desire the use of a breast implant at the time of the lift may further improve the shape and final outcome, as well as potentially decrease the number of incisions necessary.
The choice of breast lift/mastopexy will be determined based upon your breast size and shape, the size and position of the areola, the degree of breast sagging and skin quality and elasticity. After Dr. Klainer makes the breast lift incisions, the underlying breast tissue is repositioned and reshaped to enhance your breast contour and firmness. The nipple and areola are then moved to a natural, more youthful looking height and excess breast skin is removed to compensate for a loss of elasticity. To dispel a common misconception, the nipple is never actually removed; rather it remains attached to the breast tissue so that the nerves are not cut and sensation is preserved.
After the breast lift incisions are closed, some incision lines resulting from the breast lift surgery are concealed in natural body folds. Others may inevitably remain visible on the breast surface, although in most cases these lines will fade and significantly improve over time.
Breast lift before and after photos can help you see what changes are possible when undergoing a breast lift procedure.
Breast Lift Downtime & Discomfort:
Before your Breast Lift/mastopexy, and for your safety, Dr. Klainer may require you to undergo lab tests or a medical evaluation. Depending on your particular situation, new medications may need to be introduced or your current medications may need to be adjusted. All breast lift patients are required to stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery. Patients are also instructed to avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as these items have been known to possibly increase bleeding and bruising. Dr. Klainer will fully discuss the do's and don'ts related to your breast lift surgery at your pre-op visit.
Upon completion of your breast lift bandages will be applied to the surgery site and then you will be wrapped in ACE wraps for support; these are removed the next day in the office. You will be required to wear a sports bra to minimize swelling and support your breasts as they heal. In most instances normal activities can be resumed 10-14 days. Light activities, like driving, can commence once you are feeling better and are off pain medication. Although every breast lift surgery varies, most patients can resume regular activities, including vigorous exercise, in the third week after surgery. After one month, scarring from the breast lift may still be noticeable, however in the following months the scars will gradually fade.
Discomfort levels resulting from Breast Lift surgery vary but are often not extreme. Most discomfort is manageable with medication and sensible post-op care. Do not hesitate to contact Dr. Klainer should any problems arise.
Breast Lift Augmentation FAQ:
Q: Where is the breast lift augmentation performed?
A: The procedure is performed in either a hospital or ambulatory surgery center setting. It is usually done on an outpatient basis but may require an overnight stay if combined with other procedures.
Q: Will ptosis (sagging) return?
A: Over time gravity can cause recurrence of the drooping, although this is generally less severe than the pre-surgery condition. It can often be repaired through additional breast lift surgery using the scars that already exist.
Q: Can breast size be increased at the same time?
A: Yes. Often placement of breast implants in conjunction with a breast lift or done as a secondary procedure improves upper pole projection as well as decreases the number of incisions required for the breast lift.
Q: How can I find out more about breast lift surgery?
A: Dr. Klainer is available to discuss all of your breast lift questions. Feel free to schedule your free consultation at 703-988-2246 today.
Visit our blog for more information.
|
