Breast Lift

If you are considering a breast lift...

Over the years, factors such as pregnancy, nursing and the force of gravity take their toll on a women's breasts.  As the skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose their shape and firmness and begin to sag.  Breast lift of Mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts- at least, for a time.  Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.  If your breasts are small or have lost volume- for example, after pregnancy- breast implants inserted in conjunction with Mastopexy can increase both their firmness and their size.  

The best candidates for breast lift

A breast lift can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match the ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently.  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.

Many women seek Mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing have left them with stretched skin and less volume in their breasts.  However, if you are planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift.  

All surgery carries some uncertainty and risk:

A breast lift is not a simple operation, but it's normally safe when performed in our facility by the Surgeons at the Palm Harbor Plastic Surgery Centre.  Nevertheless, 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 our advice before and after surgery.  

Mastopexy does leave noticeable, permanent scars, although they'll be covered by your bra or bathing suit.  (Poor healing and wider scars are more common in smokers.)  The procedure can leave you with unevenly positioned nipples, or a permanent loss of feeling in your nipples or breasts.

Preparing for your surgery

Depending on your age and family history, we may require you to have a mammogram before surgery. 

Avoid drinking, smoking and taking  certain vitamins and medications. While you're making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days if needed. Avoid certain supplements two weeks before your procedure.  To find out more click here.

Where your surgery will be performed

Your breast lift can be performed in our facility for cost containment and convenience.  

Types of anesthesia

Breast lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you'll sleep through the operation.  

The surgery

Mastopexy usually takes one and a half to four hours to complete.  Techniques vary, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision following the natural contour of the breast.  You may be a candidate for the modified procedures requiring less extensive incisions.  One such procedure is the "doughnut (or concentric) Mastopexy," in which circular incisions are made around the areola, and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed. 

If you are 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 your surgery

After surgery, you'll wear an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings.  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.  

Getting back to normal

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.  

Your new look

You should 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 tool again.  Women who have implants along with their breast lift may find the results last longer.

View Before & After Photos