Breast lift surgery, medically known as “mastopexy”, is an operation to remove sagging breasts and tighten the tissue. The surgery achieves this by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue, bringing the nipple up and effectively recreating the new breast contour. People with sagging breasts due to various factors such as age, pregnancy or weight fluctuations can benefit from this procedure.
Breast lift can be performed alone or combined with breast augmentation surgery. This combination is often beneficial for those who have lost breast volume as well as sagging. By integrating these surgeries, individuals can experience a comprehensive renewal of breast appearance, achieving a more vibrant, fuller and more youthful silhouette.
The duration of surgery can vary from surgery to surgery, but typically, a breast lift operation takes between 1.5 and 3 hours on average. It is performed under general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Following the procedure, there may be pain, swelling and bruising at the procedure site, which is usually not severe and decreases over time.
Postoperative recovery is an important part of achieving optimal results. Patients need to wear a surgical bra for the first few weeks to support the breasts while they heal. Stitches do not need to be removed as self-melting sutures are usually used. Most people can return to work after about a week, but strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a month to allow the body to fully recover. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon are crucial to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth and successful recovery. It is important to remember that everyone’s body heals at a different pace, so patience is key during this period.
Incisions for a breast lift can typically be made in three different ways: around the areola, around the areola and vertically up to the breast crease, or around the areola, vertically up to the breast crease and horizontally along the inframammary fold. The choice of incision depends on the amount of excess skin to be removed and the patient’s individual anatomy and preferences. Whatever the incision pattern, the aim is to leave scars that are as inconspicuous as possible and preserve the ability to breastfeed. Over time, these scars tend to fade and can often be well hidden under a swimsuit or bra.
Consultation is an important step before breast lift surgery. During this appointment, the patient and surgeon will discuss the patient’s aesthetic goals, health history and lifestyle to determine the best surgical plan. The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s breasts, considering factors such as size, shape, skin quality and the placement of the nipples and areolas. The patient will also be given the opportunity to ask any questions or raise any concerns about the surgery. This open dialog allows the patient and surgeon to agree on the expected outcome and helps to set realistic expectations for the surgery.
Preparing for breast lift surgery involves several critical steps. First, the surgeon may order mammograms and ultrasounds before surgery to establish a baseline for postoperative breast health comparisons. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications. Smoking should be stopped before surgery. Remember, following the surgeon’s specific preparation instructions is crucial for a successful surgery and recovery.
The results of a breast lift can be seen immediately after surgery, but it may take a few months for the breasts to take their final shape and the implants to settle into place. As soon as the procedure is completed, patients will notice a more vibrant and youthful appearance to their breasts. Swelling and bruising are expected after surgery and usually subside within a few days.
Gökhan Beyhan, MD Dr. Gökhan Beyhan
Plastic Surgeon
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Frequently Asked Questions.
- What is breast lift surgery?
A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of sagging breasts by lifting and reshaping them.
- Who is the ideal candidate for breast lift surgery?
Ideal candidates are usually people who are healthy, maintain a stable weight and have sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy or weight fluctuations.
- How long does the surgery usually take?
Depending on the specifics of the surgery, breast lift surgery typically takes one to three hours.
- What is the recovery time after a breast lift?
Recovery time varies depending on the person and the extent of the surgery, but most people can return to work and normal activities within 1 week.
- What is the expected lifespan of the results obtained from breast lift surgery?
The results are long-lasting, but age, gravity and life events such as pregnancy and weight fluctuations can change breast shape and size over time.
- What are the possible risks and complications?
As with any surgery, potential risks include infection, bleeding, scarring or changes in nipple or breast sensation. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon.
- Will the surgery affect my ability to breastfeed in the future?
In most cases, breast lift does not interfere with future breastfeeding. However, there may be exceptions depending on the surgical technique used. If you plan to breastfeed, discuss this with your surgeon.