(General Information)
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Technical name: Mastopexy
Body Parts: Breasts
Anesthesia: Depends on the doctor and the case
Surgery time: one and a half to three and a half hours
Scar: Less visible as possible
Pre-operative: Lab exams and mammogram
Post-operative: Bandage in the shape of a bra during the first 24 hours after surgery; avoid sleeping "face-down" for 10 days after surgery
Results duration: may vary
Clinic Stay: 24 to 48h
Recuperation Period: 10 to 20 days
Breast Lift, or Mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts, at least, for a time. No surgery can permanently delay the effects of gravity or of future pregnancies after the surgery is carried out.
Sagging breasts are usually caused by pregnancy, breast-feeding, weight fluctuations and the force of gravity. The skin looses its elasticity; the breasts loose their shape and firmness and begin to sag.
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 Mastopexy are women:
It is also important to be healthy, non smoker, emotionally-stable and realistic about what the surgery can accomplish. [ Top ]
A Breast Lift can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them during consultation.
The best results are usually achieved in women with small, sagging breasts but breasts of any size can be lifted. You must consider the fact that if you become pregnant again, the surgical results may be altered, and a new procedure may be necessary afterwards. If you are planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your Breast Lift.
While there are no special risks that affect future pregnancies, pregnancy is likely to stretch your breasts again and offset the results of the procedure. Mastopexy usually does not interfere with breast-feeding, so if by any reason you become pregnant again, you may be able to nurse once again. [ Top ]
For a Breast Lift, it can be chosen between intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. In case of general Anesthesia, you will sleep through the entire operation. If the option is intravenous sedation, sedatives will be injected to help you relax. The best anesthesia method depends on your individual case and what your doctor is recommending. You will decide with him what is better for you. [ Top ]
Mastopexy usually takes one and a half to three and a half hours. Techniques vary according to your breast size, shape; position and size of the areolas; degree of breast sagging and skin quality and elasticity. The most common technique is called “limited scar”.
In this procedure, one incision is made around the areola, the second one runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The last one is horizontal beneath the breast and follows its natural curve.
After the excess skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are moved to the higher, more youthful appearing position. The skin surrounding the areola is then brought down and together to reshape the breast. The areola can also be reduced in size, especially when they are stretched because of sagging breasts. The sensation and ability to breast-feed are usually preserved.
The goal of aesthetic plastic surgery always is to achieve the best result with the least visible scarring. This has led to the search for newer techniques to lift the breasts.
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. [ Top ]
Every effort will be made to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. Still, it is important to remember that Mastopexy scars are permanent. They often remain lumpy and red for some time, and then gradually become less obvious, sometimes 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 once more. [ Top ]
Dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. To minimize swelling and support your breasts, you will need to use an elastic bandage or support bra. In some cases, a small tube is temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess of blood or fluid. The recovery period depends on patient’s age, health and size of the incision. [ Top ]
Just like any surgery procedure, there are some risks. It is important to ask your plastic surgeon everything you would like to know and share with him all your feelings and fears.
Remember that, for long lasting results, it is important to maintain your weight and keep a healthy lifestyle.
It is also extremely important to follow your physician’s instructions, ensuring best results. The incisions should not be subjected to excessive force, abrasion or motion during the healing process. [ Top ]
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