A breast lift also known as mastopexy is a surgical procedure performed to change the shape of the breasts. During a breast lift, excess skin is removed and breast tissue is reshaped to raise the breasts. It also boosts self-image and self-confidence.
A breast lift won’t significantly change the size of the breasts. However, a breast lift can be done in combination with breast augmentation or breast reduction.
A breast lift can reduce sagging and raise the position of the nipples and the darker area
surrounding the nipples (areolae). The size of the areolae can also be reduced during the procedure to keep them in proportion to the newly shaped breasts. You might consider a breast lift if:
1- Your breasts sag—they’ve lost shape and volume, or they’ve gotten flatter and longer.
2- Your nipples — when your breasts are unsupported — fall below your breast creases.
3- Your nipples and areolae point downward.
4- Your areolae have stretched out of proportion to your breasts.
5- One of your breasts falls lower than the other.
A breast lift isn’t for everyone. If you’re considering pregnancy at any point in the future,
you might delay getting a breast lift. During pregnancy your breasts could stretch and
offset the results of the lift.
Breast-feeding is a consideration as well. Although breast-feeding is usually possible after a breast lift — since the nipples aren’t separated from the underlying breast tissue—some women might have difficulty producing enough milk.
While a breast lift can be done on breasts of any size, women with smaller sagging breasts will likely have longer lasting results. Larger breasts are heavier, which makes them more likely to sag again.
Risks
A breast lift poses various risks, including:
1- Scarring. While scars are permanent, they’ll soften and fade within one to two years. Scars from a breast lift can usually be hidden by bras and bathing suits. Rarely, poor healing can cause scars to become thick and wide.
2- Changes in nipple or breast sensation. Sensation typically returns within several
weeks. Erotic sensation typically isn’t affected.
3- Difficulty breast-feeding. While breast-feeding is usually possible after a breast
lift, some women might have difficulty producing enough milk.
During the procedure
Techniques used to remove breast skin and reshape breast tissue vary. The specific
technique will determine the location of the incisions and the resulting scars. Doctor
might make incisions:
1- Around the areolae — the darker area surrounding the nipples
2- Extending downward from the areolae to the breast creases
3- Horizontally along the breast creases
Doctor might place stitches deep within your breasts to reshape your breast tissue and, if necessary, reduce the size of the areolae. Will remove excess breast skin and shift the nipples to higher positions. Then will bring together the breast skin and close the incisions with stitches, surgical tape or skin adhesives.
The procedure typically takes two to three hours, and you can go home on the same day.
After the procedure
After a breast lift, breasts will likely be covered with gauze and a surgical support bra. Small tubes might be placed at the incision to drain any excess blood or fluid.
Breasts will be swollen and bruised for about two weeks. You’ll likely feel pain and soreness around the incisions, which will be red or pink for a few months. Numbness in your nipples, areolae and breast skin might last for about six weeks.
In the first few days after a breast lift, pain medication recommended. Avoid straining,
bending and lifting. Sleep on your back or your side to keep pressure off your breasts.
Avoid sexual activity for at least one to two weeks after the breast lift. Ask your doctor
when it’s OK to resume daily activities, such as washing your hair, showering or bathing.
Continue to wear the surgical support bra round-the-clock for three or four days. Then you’ll wear a soft support bra for three or four weeks. Your doctor might suggest using silicone tape or gel on your incisions to promote healing. While you’re healing, keep your breasts out of the sun.
Afterward, protect your incision.