What Is A Breast Lift and How Is It Done?
A breast lift, medically known as a mastopexy, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries today. Women around the world seek this procedure to elevate and reshape sagging breasts. But what exactly is a breast lift, and how is it done? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the details of the procedure, including its benefits, risks, and everything you need to know before taking the next step.
What is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and elevate sagging or drooping breasts. As age, gravity, and other factors take their toll on the body, breasts may lose their shape and firmness. A mastopexy restores the youthful appearance and contour of the breasts.
What Are The Steps Involved In Breast Lift Procedures
Breast Lift Consultation and Planning
During the consultation, the surgeon will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your medical history, body type, and desired results. This typically includes:
- Physical Examination: Measuring the size and shape of the breasts, assessing skin quality, and possibly taking photographs for medical records.
- Discussion of Expectations: Understanding your desired outcomes, explaining different techniques, and customizing the procedure to meet your goals.
- Risk and Recovery Information: Providing detailed information about the risks, recovery time, postoperative care, and possible complications.
- Financial Planning: Discussing the cost of the procedure, including surgeon fees, anaesthesia fees, hospital costs, and other expenses.
Breast Lift Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia is essential for the comfort and safety of the patient. The options may include:
- General Anaesthesia: You will be unconscious throughout the surgery, monitored by an anaesthesiologist.
- Intravenous Sedation: A combination of sedative and pain relief medications is administered through an IV to make you feel relaxed but not fully asleep.
- Local Anaesthesia (in some cases): Numbing the surgical area while keeping you conscious.
Breast Lift Incisions
The incisions are key to reshaping the breast tissue and will vary depending on the extent of sagging and the desired result:
- Periareolar Incision: Around the areola, often used in minor lifts.
- Vertical Incision: Extends from the areola to the breast crease, used in moderate lifts.
- Anchor Incision: An inverted T-shape incision, including around the areola, down the breast, and along the crease, usually used in significant lifts.
- Customized Approach: Your surgeon may customize the incision based on your unique anatomy and goals.
Breast Lift Reshaping
This stage involves various surgical techniques to achieve the desired breast shape:
- Lifting and Tightening: Removing excess skin and reshaping the underlying breast tissue.
- Nipple and Areola Positioning: Raising and resizing the nipple and areola to a more natural and youthful position.
- Additional Procedures (if required): Some patients may choose to have implants or fat grafting in conjunction with the lift to enhance volume.
Closing the Incisions
The final step involves carefully closing the incisions:
- Suturing: Using absorbable or removable sutures, depending on the surgeon’s preference.
- Skin Adhesives and Surgical Tape: These may be used to close the skin and support healing.
- Immediate Postoperative Care: Your surgeon will apply dressings, provide instructions for postoperative care, and may place a support bra to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
By understanding these details, patients can make an informed decision about pursuing a breast lift and what to expect during the process. It is essential to communicate openly with your surgeon, ask questions, and follow their recommendations before and after the procedure.
Schedule Your Breast Lift Consultation Today
A breast lift offers improved shape, symmetry, and self-confidence. Are you ready to take the first step toward rejuvenating your appearance? Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Deon Weyers, and his surgical team are here to guide you through every stage of the breast lift process. Contact us today to schedule your personalized consultation, and let us help you discover a new, more confident you. Call us now or fill out our online form to begin your journey.