Breast Lift Mastopexy
Factors such as pregnancy, or the force of gravity take their toll on a
woman's breasts. As the skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose
their shape and firmness and begin to sag. Breastlift, or mastopexy, is
a surgical procedure which; raises and reshapes sagging breasts. Mastopexy
can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the
nipple. If the breasts are small or have lost volume (e.g. after losing
a considerable weight) a breast augmentation using mammary prosthesis may
be added to the procedure.
Breast
lift can enhance the physical appearance and your self-confidence, but it
won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other
people to treat you differently. Before deciding to have surgery, you should
think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.
The best candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally-stable women
who are realistic about what the surgery can accomplish. The best results
are usually achieved in women with small, sagging breasts. Breasts of any
size can be lifted, but the results may not last as long in heavy breasts.
Especially in heavy breasts, a reduction may be considered.
A
breast lift is not a simple operation, but it's normally safe when performed
by a qualified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgery, there is always
a possibility of complications or a reaction to the anesthesia. Bleeding
and infection following a breast lift are uncommon, but they can cause scars
to widen. You can reduce your risks by closely following your physician's
advice both before and after surgery. Mastopexy may leave a noticeable,
permanent scar, although it will be covered by your bra or bathing suit.
The procedure can also leave you with unevenly positioned nipples, or a
permanent loss of feeling in your nipples or breasts.
In the initial consultation, it's important to discuss your expectations
frankly with your surgeon, and to listen to his or her opinion. Every patient
- and every physician, as well - has a
different
view of what is a desirable size and shape for breasts. The surgeon will
examine your breasts and measure them while you're sitting or standing.
He or she will discuss the variables that may affect the procedure--such
as your age, the size and shape of your breasts, and the condition of your
skin--and whether an implant is advisable. You should also discuss where
the nipple and areola will be positioned; they'll be moved higher during
the procedure, and should be approximately even with the crease beneath
your breast. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you may have,
especially those regarding your expectations and concerns about the results.
Breast lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia, which means
you'll sleep through the operation.
Mastopexy
usually takes one and a half to three and a half hours. Techniques vary,
but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision following
the natural contour of the breast. The incision outlines the area from which
breast skin will be removed and defines the new location for the nipple.
When the excess skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are moved to
the higher position. The skin surrounding the areola is then brought down
and together to reshape the breast. Stitches are usually located around
the areola, in a vertical line extending downwards from the nipple area,
and along the lower crease of the breast. If you're having an implant inserted
along with your breast lift, it will be placed in a pocket directly under
the breast tissue, or deeper, under the muscle of the chest wall.
After surgery, your breasts will be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable
for a day or two, but the pain shouldn't be severe. Within a few days, the
bandages or surgical bra will be replaced by a soft support bra. You'll
need to wear this bra around the clock for three to four weeks, over a layer
of gauze. The stitches will be removed after a week or two. You can expect
some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin, caused by the swelling
after surgery. This numbness usually fades as the swelling subsides over
the next six weeks or so. In some patients, however, it may last a year
or more, and occasionally it may be permanent.
Healing is a gradual process. Although you may be up and about in a day
or two, don't plan on returning to work for a week or more, depending on
how you feel. Avoid lifting anything over your head for three to four weeks.
If you have any unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to call your surgeon. It
is important to remember that mastopexy scars are extensive and permanent.
They often remain lumpy and red for months, then gradually become less obvious,
sometimes eventually fading to thin white lines. Fortunately, the scars
can usually be placed so that you can wear even low-cut tops. You should
also keep in mind that a breast lift won't keep you firm forever, the effects
of gravity, pregnancy, aging, and weight fluctuations will eventually take
their toll again. Women who have implants along with their breast lift may
find the results last longer.
Your satisfaction with a breast lift is likely to be greater if you understand
the procedure thoroughly and if your expectations are realistic.
