BREAST LIFT - Full Mastopexy
What is Breast Lift Surgery?
Mastopexy, or "breast lift surgery," is designed to restore the natural shape and size to the breast. Like many women, you may have noticed a drastic change in the shape and position of your breasts after childbirth or weight loss. You may be able to fill out the cup of a bra, but when not supported, your breasts become droopy. There may be a hollow appearance to the top portion of your breasts, and the colored part of the nipple, or areola, may have become stretched out. Mastopexy addresses these problems. In some instances, there is enough native breast tissue to recreate the proper proportion. In other cases, an implant must be added to help restore volume. This procedure is called a pexy-augmentation. Unfortunately when the droop is pronounced, it might be tempting to try and correct the problem with an implant alone. While this may improve the appearance of the breasts for several months or so, it usually does not solve the problem in the long run. Eventually the skin stretches and the problem returns. Adding more saline to the implant just aggravates the problem.
Who Should Consider Mastopexy?
How do you know when you have too much droop? This is one of the questions Dr. Corey will answer in your consultation, but, generally, if you can place a pencil in the fold underneath your breast and it stays in place without help, you may have too much droop.
Preparing For Your Surgery
During your pre-operative consultation, Dr. Corey will advise you as to the best procedure for you depending on your desired size and shape. There are several techniques available, many of which Dr. Corey learned while training in Brazil. You will be provided with instructions regarding diet, smoking and medications, and you will be given any necessary prescriptions.
During Your Surgery
During the operation, excess skin is removed and the drooping breast tissue is reshaped. The nipple is usually relocated to a higher position and reduced as needed. The incision may circle around the breast, continue down vertically to the bottom fold and then extend to both the inside and outside for several inches. If an implant is placed, it is usually positioned below the pectoralis muscle. The scars tend to fade during the next three to six months.
Post-Operative Care
Post-operatively, you will be sore for several days, but you will be able to get around. Most people are ready to return to work in five to seven days. Your breasts will appear somewhat high riding at first, but they will settle into a more normal position. In one day of surgery, you can restore what has been lost over several years.