Description

Familiarity with treatment

Who is it suitable for?

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is suitable for women who are experiencing sagging or drooping breasts and desire a more lifted and youthful breast appearance. It may be appropriate for individuals who meet the following criteria:

1. Sagging breasts: Breast lift surgery is most suitable for women who have breasts that have lost their shape and firmness due to factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, aging, or genetics. The procedure can help lift and reshape the breasts, restoring a more youthful contour.
2. Good overall health: Candidates for breast lift surgery should be in good overall health. It is important to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, previous surgeries, or medications to your plastic surgeon during the consultation.
3. Stable weight: It is generally recommended that candidates for breast lift surgery have a stable weight. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the results of the procedure, so it is advisable to reach and maintain a stable weight before undergoing surgery.
4. Realistic expectations: It is important for individuals considering breast lift surgery to have realistic expectations about the outcome. While the procedure can lift and reshape the breasts, it does not significantly change the size or volume of the breasts. It is important to have a thorough discussion with a plastic surgeon to understand the potential results and limitations of the procedure.
5. Completed childbearing: Breast lift surgery can be performed on women who have completed their childbearing and do not plan to have more children. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the shape and position of the breasts, so it is generally recommended to wait until after completing all desired pregnancies before considering breast lift surgery.
6. Emotional readiness: Breast lift surgery is a significant decision that can have both physical and emotional impacts. It is important for individuals to be emotionally prepared for the procedure and have a clear understanding of their motivations and expectations.

Who is it not suitable for?

Breast lift surgery may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some factors that may make a person ineligible for the procedure:

1. Pregnancy or plans for future pregnancies: Breast lift surgery is generally not recommended for women who are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the near future. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the shape and position of the breasts, potentially undoing the results of the surgery. It is advisable to wait until after completing all desired pregnancies before considering breast lift surgery.
2. Unstable weight: Individuals who have not achieved a stable weight may not be suitable candidates for breast lift surgery. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the results of the procedure, so it is generally recommended to reach and maintain a stable weight before undergoing surgery.
3. Poor overall health: Breast lift surgery is a surgical procedure that requires general anesthesia. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or compromised immune systems, may not be suitable candidates for surgery. It is important to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to your plastic surgeon during the consultation.
4. Unrealistic expectations: It is important for individuals considering breast lift surgery to have realistic expectations about the outcome. While the procedure can lift and reshape the breasts, it does not significantly change the size or volume of the breasts. It is important to have a thorough discussion with a plastic surgeon to understand the potential results and limitations of the procedure.
5. Smoking: Smoking can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications after surgery. Individuals who smoke may be advised to quit smoking before undergoing breast lift surgery.
6. Limited breast tissue: In some cases, individuals with minimal breast tissue may not be suitable candidates for breast lift surgery. The procedure relies on existing breast tissue to reshape and lift the breasts. A plastic surgeon will evaluate the amount of breast tissue and determine if breast lift surgery is appropriate.

Advantages

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, offers several advantages for individuals who are unhappy with the position, shape, or firmness of their breasts. Some of the advantages of breast lift surgery include:

1. Lifted and firmer breasts: The primary goal of breast lift surgery is to lift and reshape sagging breasts. The procedure removes excess skin and tightens the breast tissue, resulting in a more lifted and youthful breast appearance. This can help improve self-confidence and body image.
2. Improved breast symmetry: Breast lift surgery can help improve breast symmetry by correcting any noticeable differences in size, shape, or position between the breasts. The surgeon can adjust the position of the nipple and areola to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.
3. Enhanced breast contour: Breast lift surgery can improve the overall contour and shape of the breasts. The procedure can restore a more rounded and aesthetically pleasing breast shape, especially in cases where the breasts have become elongated or flattened due to sagging.
4. Nipple and areola repositioning: During a breast lift, the surgeon can reposition the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast mound. This can help create a more youthful and proportionate breast appearance.
5. Improved clothing fit: Sagging breasts can make it challenging to find well-fitting clothing, especially bras and swimsuits. Breast lift surgery can help improve the fit of clothing and undergarments, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in their clothing choices.
6. Boost in self-confidence: Many women experience a boost in self-confidence and body image after breast lift surgery. The procedure can help address concerns about sagging or drooping breasts, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and satisfied with their breast appearance.

Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries potential risks and complications. While complications are rare, it is important to be aware of them. Some possible complications of breast lift surgery include:

1. Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection at the incision site. This can usually be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, additional surgical intervention may be required.
2. Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery is a potential complication. This can sometimes require a blood transfusion or additional surgical intervention to control the bleeding.
3. Poor wound healing: Some individuals may experience delayed wound healing or wound separation. This can lead to scarring or the need for additional surgical procedures to correct the issue.
4. Scarring: Breast lift surgery involves incisions, which will result in scars. While efforts are made to minimize scarring and place incisions in inconspicuous areas, the extent of scarring can vary depending on individual factors such as genetics and healing ability.
5. Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation may occur after breast lift surgery. This can include increased or decreased sensitivity or numbness in the nipple or breast area.
6. Asymmetry: While efforts are made to achieve symmetry, there is a risk of uneven or asymmetrical results. This can include differences in breast shape, size, or nipple position.
7. Fluid accumulation: Fluid accumulation, known as seroma, can occur after surgery. This may require drainage through a needle or additional surgical intervention.
8. Blood clots: There is a risk of developing blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), after any surgical procedure. These clots can be potentially dangerous if they travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). Measures such as early ambulation and the use of compression stockings are taken to minimize this risk.
9. Anesthesia risks: General anesthesia carries its own set of risks, including allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and adverse reactions to medications. These risks are generally low but can occur.

Preoperative care

Postoperative care

Postoperative care refers to the steps and precautions taken after a surgical procedure to promote healing, minimize complications, and ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some general postoperative care guidelines that may be recommended:

1. Follow surgeon’s instructions: It is crucial to carefully follow the postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon. These instructions may include guidelines on wound care, medication management, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. Adhering to these instructions will help optimize your recovery.
2. Pain management: You may experience some discomfort or pain after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any discomfort. Take the medications as directed and inform your surgeon if the pain is not adequately controlled.
3. Wound care: Proper wound care is essential for healing and minimizing the risk of infection. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to clean and dress the incision site, including any specific products or techniques to use. Keep the incision area clean and dry, and avoid submerging it in water until cleared by your surgeon.
4. Activity restrictions: Your surgeon will provide guidelines on activity restrictions and limitations during the initial recovery period. It is important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and excessive bending or stretching that could strain the incision site. Gradually increase your activity level as advised by your surgeon.
5. Supportive garments: Depending on the type of surgery, your surgeon may recommend wearing a supportive bra or compression garment to provide support and help reduce swelling. Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding the use of these garments and the duration of wear.
6. Nutrition and hydration: Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support the healing process. Follow any dietary recommendations provided by your surgeon, and drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise instructed.
7. Monitor for signs of complications: Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the incision site. Also, watch for excessive bleeding, fever, severe pain, or any other unusual symptoms. If you notice any concerning signs or symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately.
8. Emotional support: Surgery can be a physically and emotionally challenging experience. Seek emotional support from loved ones or consider joining support groups to help cope with any emotional or psychological aspects of the recovery process.
9. Attend follow-up appointments: It is important to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your healing progress, address any concerns or complications, and make any necessary adjustments to your postoperative care plan.