Breast Lift

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, restores a more youthful appearance to a woman’s breasts. Over the years breasts can lose their shape and firmness due to pregnancy, nursing, and loss of skin elasticity, causing them to sag. Mastopexy will help raise and reshape breasts—slowing the effects of aging and gravity. This procedure may also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

Mastopexy is commonly performed in conjunction with breast augmentation (implants) to increase breast firmness and size. This may appeal to women who have lost breast volume after pregnancy. Pregnancy and nursing often result in stretched skin and therefore decreased volume. If you are planning a future pregnancy, it may be advisable to postpone your breast lift, as pregnancy will likely cause further stretching.

As with all plastic surgery, realistic expectations and emotional stability are important. Though breasts of any size can be lifted, women with smaller breasts enjoy longer lasting results.

The Procedure

Though not a simple operation, mastopexy is normally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Mastopexy is occasionally performed in a hospital but more often is done in an outpatient facility. Breast lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia. Local anesthesia may be used with a sedative if the incision is small; you will be awake but relaxed and will feel minimal discomfort.

The surgery may take between 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours. A common approach involves an incision along the natural lower contour of the breast where excess skin will be removed. The nipple and areola are then repositioned. The skin surrounding the areola is brought together to reshape the breast, with stitches around the areola and the lower breast area. Drain tubes may be used.

Because milk ducts are left intact, mastopexy may not affect your ability to breast-feed.
For best results, follow your physician’s advice both before and after surgery.

This procedure can be combined with breast augmentation or a limited volume reduction.

Detailed pre- and post-op instructions will be provided for you both during your consultation and after surgery.