DONUT MASTOPEXY
What is Donut Mastopexy?
This type of mastopexy, or Breast Lift, is used when a woman presents with a more mild form of breast droop or ptosis. In some women there may be a fine line between who should have this procedure and who can get by with just an implant. This may vary from physician to physician and can be a difficult call in many cases. In situations where the person has very, very low drooping breasts, then the solution is fairly straightforward. But in cases of mild droop, it can be a bit more subjective. A Donut Mastopexy helps elevate the nipple to a more aesthetic level and can help reduce some of the extra tissue at the bottom of the breast. It does have it’s limitations as to how much elevation can be attained. This lift can be performed in conjunction with a saline or silicone gel implant as well.
Surgical Procedure
In a Full Mastopexy the incision starts around the areola, straight down the front of the breast and then underneath as well. This is not the case with the Donut Mastopexy. The incision is confined to only around the areola, which becomes reduced in most cases. An incision is made around the areola and an implant placed if needed. Another incision is then made around the first in a wider circle. The intervening skin is then removed and on rare occasion, some breast tissue as well. The resized areola is then stitched into a higher position than before. The larger circle is then gathered into the areola in a “purse-string” fashion with more stitches.
Scarring
As stated above, the incision is confined to only around the areola. At first it usually has a puckered look as the tissue has been gathered together. With time, this usually smoothes out. However, a word of caution: it is tempting to think that because the incision is much smaller than the full Mastopexy, Keyhole or Anchor incision that the scar will be unnoticeable. This may not be the case. Even this incision may need revision and this particular tissue of the breast can be prone to delayed wound healing and stretching. A permanent suture is used to try and minimize this but the end size and shape of the areola are not identical from side to side in most cases.
Post-Operative Recovery
Post-operatively, you should be up and around within 24 to 36 hours following your surgery, but you will most likely feel somewhat tired and sore for a few days. Dr. Corey will prescribe medication to help control your discomfort. You will have a wrap or binder on. You will shower in 48 hours and then you will begin wearing a sports bra. Dr. Corey will give you instructions on how and when to wear the sports bra. Your stitches will dissolve on their own. Right after surgery, your breasts will appear very firm and a bit high riding. This is normal. Over the next one to four months, they should soften and settle to a more natural position. Dr. Corey will instruct you on exercises to do to help this process along. Actual breast swelling may take up to two to four weeks to dissipate.
After a few days, you should be able to return to work. Dr. Corey will advise you on when to resume exercises and other activities. Direct physical contact with your breasts will probably cause discomfort for three to four weeks following surgery. Dr. Corey will follow your progress closely over the next six months and schedule you for a yearly visit thereafter. If you are in the appropriate age group, you should continue getting routine mammograms. A special technique is used for women with breast implants, so remember to inform the mammogram technician to ensure that you get a reliable reading.