A breast lift surgery or mastopexy is done to raise the height of drooping breasts and improve the overall bust size. The procedure is carried out by removing extra skin and tightening the tissue surrounding the breast, which results in the breast developing a firmer feel and better shape. According to statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast lifts have become quite popular in recent years. There has been a 70 percent increase in the number of mastopexy surgeries, replacing breast implant surgeries.
Why is Mastopexy done?
There are several reasons to why women opt for breast lift surgeries. But, the majority of patients choose it for cosmetic reasons. As women age, the shape of their breasts tend to change losing the firmness and shape that was once present during their youth. These changes are further impacted by factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, heredity, gravity, and variations in weight. In some cases, the areolas of the breast become enlarged over time and mastopexy is done to reduce the size.
Who can get a Breast Lift Surgery?
The ideal candidate for mastopexy should be someone who has good general health and maintains their weight. The patient must not be a smoker. Apart from these, the physical appearance of the breasts also indicates if surgery is required or not. The general signs include stretched, flat or pendulous looking breasts, nipples that fall below the crease of the breasts, downward facing areolas or nipples, enlarged areolas, stretched breast skin, and odd sized breasts. Women who are generally unsatisfied with the shape or look of their breasts can also go in for this procedure.
When going in for a consultation, request the cosmetic surgeon to provide you with before and after photos of previously done surgeries. This way you will have a better idea of what the results of the surgery might look like. The before and after photos will also help you assess the surgeon’s level of expertise.
Procedure
A breast lift surgery is generally carried out by an experienced plastic or cosmetic surgeon. It is an outpatient procedure, which means the patient doesn’t necessarily have to stay at the hospital. The recovery process can be managed at home. The surgical technique used depends on factors such as elasticity of the skin, position and size of areolas, the level of sagging, and general size and shape of the breast.
The first phase of the procedure involves administering anesthesia, which can vary between general anesthesia and intravenous sedation. The decision is usually made by the surgeon in charge. The second step involves making the incisions on the breast. There are 3 types of incisions: around the areola, vertical incision, and a combination of vertical and horizontal incisions.
After the respective incisions are made, the surgeon lifts the concealed breast tissue and reshapes it to create firmness and improve the contours. The areola and the nipple are then shifted to a more suitable height and position. In case of enlarged areolas, the skin around the perimeter is surgically removed. Elasticity is then improved by surgically eliminating all the extra skin. After completing the procedure, the skin is tightened by closing the incisions.
Recovery
Recovery involves using a support bra or wearing elastic bandages around the breasts during the healing process. Complete healing generally takes more than a week. Occasionally, a thin tube is positioned temporarily under the skin to drain excess blood and fluids. Talk to your plastic surgeon to know more on how to take care after surgery.
If you feel that you might need a breast lift surgery and happen to live in the areas of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, or West Hollywood, please feel free to get in touch with Dr. Eugene Kim for a thorough consultation.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
