Breast Lift Surgery
Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy): A Step-by-Step Guide
Reviewed by Dr. Daniel Zeichner MD
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts, restoring a youthful contour and firmness. Over time, factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight fluctuations can cause the breasts to lose their shape and elasticity. At Spring Plastic Surgery, we approach each breast lift procedure with precision and an understanding of the unique needs of each patient. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step of the mastopexy process to help you understand this rejuvenating procedure.
Breast Lift Procedure
Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation
The journey to achieving beautifully lifted and contoured breasts begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, I evaluate the patient’s goals, breast anatomy, and skin quality to determine the most appropriate surgical approach. Important considerations during the consultation include:
•Desired Breast Position and Shape: We discuss the patient’s goals, including their desired breast height, shape, and any areas of concern, such as asymmetry.
•Incision Types: There are multiple incision techniques for a breast lift, and the choice depends on the degree of lift required:
•Periareolar (around the nipple): Ideal for patients with minimal sagging.
•Vertical (lollipop incision): Extends from the areola down to the breast crease and is suitable for moderate sagging.
•Anchor (inverted T): Adds a horizontal incision along the breast fold, recommended for more substantial sagging.
Using images or 3D modeling, We help patients visualize potential outcomes and select the incision type that will yield the most aesthetically pleasing and natural result.
Natural Breast Lift
Step 2: Preoperative Preparation
Once we’ve planned the procedure, patients undergo a preoperative evaluation. This involves a medical exam, blood work, and often a mammogram to ensure they’re good candidates for surgery. Pre-surgery guidelines may include:
• Medication Adjustments: Avoiding certain medications, like aspirin or blood thinners, that can increase bleeding risk.
• Smoking Cessation: Refraining from smoking for several weeks before and after surgery, as smoking can impair healing.
• Lifestyle Preparations: Arranging for transportation and support at home for the first few days after surgery.
Breast Lift, the Day of the Surgery
Step 3: Anesthesia
On the day of surgery, we administer general anesthesia to ensure the patient remains comfortable and pain-free. At Spring Plastic Surgery, I work with an experienced surgeons and anesthesiology team that closely monitors the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure to guarantee maximum safety.
Mastopexy Procedure
Step 4: Making the Incisions
The incision type determined during the consultation is made with precision to create the least amount of visible scarring. Here are the most common incision techniques in more detail:
• Periareolar Incision: A circular incision around the areola is used for patients needing minimal lifting and correction of minor sagging.
• Vertical or Lollipop Incision: This incision starts around the areola and extends down to the breast crease, allowing for moderate lifting and reshaping.
• Anchor or Inverted T Incision: This technique includes a vertical incision from the areola to the breast fold, as well as a horizontal incision along the crease, ideal for more extensive lifting and reshaping.
Each incision option allows me to reshape the underlying breast tissue and remove excess skin, creating a lifted, youthful breast contour.
Post-Pregnancy Breast Lift
Step 5: Reshaping and Lifting the Breast Tissue
Once the incisions are made, I carefully lift and reshape the breast tissue. This involves tightening and repositioning the tissue to create a firm, youthful appearance. The nipple and areola are then lifted to a higher position on the breast, aligning them with the new breast shape. If needed, I can also reduce the size of the areola for a more balanced appearance.
Step 6: Removing Excess Skin
After the breast tissue has been reshaped, any excess skin is removed. This step is essential for creating a firm contour and preventing sagging in the future. I make sure the amount of skin removed aligns with the desired shape and projection of the breasts.
Recovery from Breast Augmentation
Step 7: Closing the Incisions
With the breasts lifted and reshaped, the incisions are meticulously closed in layers to support the newly lifted position. I use dissolvable sutures internally to reinforce the breast structure, and then carefully close the outer incisions to create minimal, well-placed scars that will fade over time.
Step 8: Postoperative Care and Recovery
Following surgery, I provide each patient with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. Key recovery guidelines include:
• Wearing a Support Bra: A specialized surgical bra provides support and minimizes swelling.
• Managing Discomfort: Prescription pain medications can help ease any discomfort during the initial recovery period.
• Showering and Wound Care: Patients receive instructions for showering and caring for incisions to promote healing and reduce infection risk.
• Activity Restrictions: Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks to allow proper healing of the breast tissue and incisions.
Patients can expect some mild swelling and bruising for the first few weeks, and initial results will be visible shortly after surgery. However, the final shape will settle over the coming months as the tissues heal fully and scars begin to fade.
Step 9: Follow-Up Appointments and Final Results
Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing, answer any questions, and ensure that the results meet the patient’s expectations. At Spring Plastic Surgery, we’re committed to providing ongoing support and ensuring each patient feels confident and satisfied with their lifted, rejuvenated appearance.
A breast lift can be a highly rewarding procedure, offering a renewed sense of confidence and a more youthful appearance. At Spring Plastic Surgery, we strive for natural, beautiful results tailored to each individual.
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