What is a breast lift?

Also called mastopexy, a breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and enhance the appearance of the breasts.During the procedure, a plastic surgeon may perform the following:

• Raise the breasts to a higher position on your chest.
• Make the breasts appear more symmetrical and proportional.
• Reduce the size of the areolas and position them to face forward.
• Remove excess skin that has stretched over time.
• Create a rounder shape for the breasts.
• Tighten the breast tissue to better support the nipples and areolas.

Why do people get breast lift surgery?

Over time, breasts undergo changes. Loss of elasticity can cause them to sag or droop.Some common causes include:

• Aging.
• Breastfeeding.
• Genetics or naturally drooping breasts.
• The pull of gravity.
• Pregnancy.
• Significant weight loss.

A mastopexy can help the breasts look firmer and more youthful.

Does a breast lift change the size of my breasts?

A breast lift alone does not alter the volume of your breasts.However, it is often combined with other procedures.If you want fuller breasts, you may consider breast augmentation with implants.For smaller breasts, a breast reduction might be the right choice.

What happens before a breast lift surgery?

Before undergoing mastopexy, you’ll have a detailed consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this meeting, you’ll discuss:

• Your goals for the procedure.
• Your overall health, allergies, prior surgeries, and mammogram results.
• Any personal or family history of breast cancer.
• All medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and blood thinners.
• Use of alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs.

What happens during a breast lift?

Most breast lifts are done at a hospital or surgical center and usually take one to two hours.The surgical team will:

1. Provide you with a surgical gown.
2. Position you on the operating table.
3. Administer anesthesia.
4. Clean and prep your skin.
5. Mark the surgical site.
6. Make incisions around the areolas and downward if needed.
7. Reposition or remove excess tissue, fat, and skin.
8. Lift and tighten the chest muscles with sutures.
9. Move the areola and nipple to a higher position.
10. Remove any additional tissue or muscle if required.
11. Close the incisions.
12. Apply bandages or a surgical bra for support during healing.

What do breast lift scars look like?

Scars vary based on incision type but are usually hidden in:

• Under the breast fold.
• Around the areolas.
• Natural breast contours.

Some surface scars may remain but often fade over time.

What happens after breast lift surgery?

Most people go home the same day. Someone should stay with you that first night.You may have thin tubes near the incisions to drain fluid.Your care team will provide recovery instructions, such as:

• Caring for drains and changing dressings.
• Avoid lifting arms overhead; keep elbows close to your body.
• Report any signs of complications.
• Sleep on your back.
• Use pain relievers and antibiotics if prescribed.
• Wear a special surgical bra for support.

What are the benefits of mastopexy?

Breasts look firmer, lifted, and more youthful. Bras and clothing fit better.

What are the potential risks of a breast lift?

As a surgical procedure, it may involve risks such as:

• Breast asymmetry.
• Bleeding or blood clots.
• Numbness or sensory changes.
• Nausea or difficulty waking from anesthesia.
• Damage to nerves, vessels, or muscles.
• Hematoma (blood under the skin).
• Prolonged pain or swelling.

Recovery and Outcome:

Mild pain, swelling, and bruising are common after surgery and usually improve within two weeks.Drains are typically removed within a few days.Incisions may take several months to fully heal.Some surgeons recommend sleeping on your back for a few weeks.