Breast Lift
What to Consider Before Breast Lift Surgery
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the breasts. Commonly performed to counteract a drooping or sagging appearance, a condition known as ‘ptosis,’ breast lifts can also improve the appearance of breasts that look “deflated,” as though there is too much skin for the volume of breast tissue. Ptotic breasts can be caused by aging, pregnancy and breastfeeding, weight loss, or heredity.
During a breast lift, excess skin is removed through an incision. As a result, the natural breast tissue sits higher on the chest. A breast lift can elevate the breast’s position on the chest while removing extra skin, resulting in a younger, firmer, and perkier-looking breast appearance.
This procedure requires general anesthesia and is typically performed in one to three hours, although it can take longer if breast implants are being inserted during the same procedure. An incision in one of several locations on the breast allows the surgeon to remove excess tissue and sculpt the remaining tissues into a more aesthetically pleasing contour.
Types of Breast Lift Procedures
A breast lift may be performed alone or in combination with the insertion of breast implants to enhance the volume and overall size of the breasts. Breast lifts are also popular choices for women undergoing a “mommy makeover.” There are several surgical techniques that can be used during a breast lift. The technique used in a particular situation is determined by the degree of sagging, the amount of excess skin present, and the overall size of the breasts.
There are three common ways in which a breast lift is performed. During concentric mastopexy, excess skin is removed through a circle around the patient’s areola and nipple. Also known as a Benelli breast lift or a peri-areolar lift, this method is known for being the least invasive technique and the least likely to leave noticeable scars, although the surgeon may not be able to remove as much skin as with other techniques.
During vertical mastopexy, a vertical incision from the areola to the crease underneath the breast allows for excess skin to be removed. Anchor-shaped or keyhole mastopexy involves an incision around the nipple, extending downwards in a vertical line, and across the horizontal crease under the breast. This is the most common technique used when breast implants are inserted during the procedure. Although it results in the most noticeable scar pattern, it also allows the surgeon to correct extensive drooping. A mastopexy may also involve the repositioning of the nipple and areola to an elevated position on the chest. This step may be unnecessary in situations involving a lesser degree of sagging.
Are You a Good Candidate For a Breast Lift?
Breast lift surgery is appropriate for adult women whose breasts contain excess skin which causes a sagging appearance. This procedure is most often chosen by women who are looking to counteract the physical effects of pregnancy and breastfeeding, significant weight loss, and the natural aging process. These events can cause the breasts to lose their perky appearance become droopy or saggy. The breasts begin to point downwards rather than outward, and lack the firmness they once had. Although the bra size may remain unchanged, the patient notices a significant change in the appearance of the breasts.
Although a breast lift can be performed on adult women of any age, it is recommended that women who are planning future pregnancies or substantial weight loss wait to undergo this procedure, as the appearance of the breasts is likely to change significantly. A rule of thumb to determine whether you could benefit from a breast lift is to place a pen in the crease underneath the breasts. If the sagging tissue holds it in place without the use of the hands, the appearance of the breasts would likely benefit from this procedure.
Finding a Breast Lift Surgeon
Other than the breast lift cost, its important to select a surgeon based on qualifications and experience. When doing your research for a breast lift surgeon, check to see if they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), or other association such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASPS). While being a member in any society or board-certification does not guarantee a successful result most certifying boards like these require extensive medical training, experience, and rigorous surgical education which can ensure that the most appropriate techniques are used for your breast lift procedure while reducing the risk of complications.