If the effects of aging, weight loss, pregnancy, or nursing have left you with sagging breasts, a breast lift can be transformational. Known medically as a mastopexy, a breast lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and contours and reshapes breast tissue to raise the breasts. Following a mastopexy, patients will see a more youthful breast silhouette that gives them more confidence in their appearance.
What happens in a breast lift?
Breasts sag due to loss of breast volume and excess skin. The breasts may flatten out and look deflated. During a mastopexy, excess skin is removed and the underlying tissue is lifted and reshaped. The size of the areola, or dark area surrounding the nipple, can be reduced, and the nipple and areola are repositioned to a more youthful position. If one breast is lower than the other, the surgeon can restore symmetry.
Will a breast lift make my small breasts look larger?
A breast lift does not increase breast size. However, a woman may choose to have a breast augmentation at the same time. Implants can increase the size and fullness of the breasts. The surgeon will recommend implant size based on a woman’s body frame, condition of the breast tissue, and the patient’s goals. A major advantage of having both procedures simultaneously is there is just one recovery period.
What is recovery like?
The average recovery period for mastopexy is 4-6 weeks, with limited activities for the first week. There will be pain and soreness around the incisions, and there may be temporary numbness in the nipples and areola. Most patients can return to work after about a week. A support bra must be worn during recovery to help reduce swelling and support breasts as they heal.
Are the results of a breast lift permanent?
Breast lift results are not permanent. However, the average breast lift results will last 10-15 years. Unfortunately, the body’s natural aging process and gravity will eventually cause the breast to sag again. Maintaining a stable and healthy weight will help the results last.
Will there be scars?
Mastopexy surgery does leave scars. Most of them will be covered under a bra or swimsuit. After a few months, the scars should flatten and fade somewhat. Avoiding sun exposure and tanning beds will help reduce the appearance of scars.
Trust an Expert Plastic Surgeon
Board Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Cristina Keusch, has been performing breast lifts at Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center since 1990. Breast surgeries are highly customized based on a woman’s needs and goals. Contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Keusch.
