A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that reshapes and lifts the breasts to improve their appearance. It can be used to reduce sagging, restore volume, and provide better contour and symmetry. The procedure involves removing excess skin and tissue from the breasts, repositioning the nipple-areolar complex, and tightening the surrounding tissue. This creates a more youthful appearance by lifting the breasts higher on the chest wall and restoring firmness.
Causes of Sagging Breasts
Sagging breasts are caused by a variety of factors including aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, genetics, weight fluctuations, and gravity. As we age our skin loses elasticity which causes it to become loose and saggy. Pregnancy can cause stretching of the ligaments that support the breasts resulting in drooping or sagging. Breastfeeding can cause changes in size or shape due to hormonal changes as well as stretching of ligaments due to nursing. Weight fluctuations can affect breast shape and size while gravity pulls everything down over time.
Advantages of Mastopexy Surgery
Mastopexy surgery offers several advantages for women who have lost volume or shape in their breasts due to aging or other factors. It can restore fullness and perkiness to the breasts while providing better contour and symmetry. In addition, it can give women an improved self-image by providing them with a more youthful look.
Who Should Consider a Breast Lift?
Women who are unhappy with the appearance of their sagging breasts may want to consider a breast lift procedure. Women who have experienced significant weight loss or who have had children may find that their breasts are no longer perky or symmetrical due to stretching of ligaments or loss of skin elasticity. A breast lift can help restore a more youthful look by lifting the breasts higher on the chest wall and improving contour and symmetry.
Different Types of Breast Lift Procedures
When it comes to breast lift surgery, there are several different types of procedures that can be used depending on the patient’s individual needs. Each type of procedure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to discuss all options with your plastic surgeon before deciding which one is best for you.
Short Scar Technique
The short scar technique, also known as a “lollipop” or “donut” lift, involves an incision around the areola and another vertical incision from the areola down to the breast crease. This type of procedure is most often used when there is minimal sagging of the breasts. The advantage of this technique is that it leaves only two scars, which are usually small and well-hidden.
Vertical Scar Technique
The vertical scar technique involves an incision around the areola and a longer vertical incision from the areola down to the breast crease. This type of procedure is commonly used when there is moderate sagging of the breasts. The advantage of this technique is that it provides more control over skin removal and reshaping than the short scar technique. However, it does leave a longer scar along the lower portion of the breast.
Inverted T Technique
The inverted T technique involves an incision around the areola, a vertical incision from the areola down to the breast crease, and an additional horizontal incision along the breast crease. This type of procedure is typically used when there is significant sagging of the breasts. The advantage of this technique is that it provides maximum control over skin removal and reshaping but does leave three scars – one around each areola and one along the lower portion of each breast.
Crescent Lift Technique
The crescent lift technique involves an incision in a half-moon shape at the top edge of each areola. This type of procedure is most often used when there is minimal sagging but some asymmetry between both breasts. The advantage of this technique is that it leaves only a small scar at each areola which can be easily hidden by clothing or swimwear.
No matter which type of procedure you choose, it’s important to discuss all options with your plastic surgeon so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.
Good post-operative care is essential for successful recovery and long-lasting results from breast lift surgery. Support bra, light exercises, healthy lifestyle and silicone gel dressings can all help.
Post-Operative Care
The post-operative care for a breast lift is just as important as the surgery itself. After the procedure, patients will need to wear a support bra and follow specific instructions to ensure a successful recovery.
Support Bra and Exercises
Immediately after surgery, patients will be required to wear a supportive surgical bra that helps reduce swelling and supports the breasts while they heal. This should be worn 24/7 for several weeks, even when sleeping, until advised otherwise by the doctor. Additionally, light exercises can help improve circulation and promote healing. However, it’s important to avoid any strenuous activities or exercise that could put pressure on the chest area until given clearance from the surgeon.
Duration of Results
A breast lift can provide results that last for several years depending on factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle habits, and how well the patient follows post-operative instructions. To maintain results for longer periods of time, it’s important for patients to follow a healthy lifestyle of proper nutrition and exercise. Additionally, if patients gain or lose weight significantly after surgery this can affect their results over time.
Silicone Gel for Scars
most breast lift procedures leave scars that may take up to 12 months or more to fade away completely. To help reduce the appearance of these scars, doctors often recommend using silicone gel dressings which are applied directly onto them. These dressings help keep moisture in the scar tissue which encourages collagen production and helps reduce the appearance of raised scars over time.
Overall, taking good care of yourself after a breast lift procedure is essential in ensuring you get optimal results from your surgery. Following your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully will help you enjoy long lasting benefits from your mastopexy surgery.
Breast lift can improve sagging breasts, restore youthful shape and size, and reduce scarring with post-operative care and silicone gel.
Conclusion
A breast lift is a procedure that can help improve the appearance of sagging breasts. It can also help restore the breasts’ youthful shape and size. This procedure is suitable for those who have lost volume in their breasts due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or age-related changes. There are several types of breast lift procedures available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The type of procedure chosen will depend on the individual’s anatomy, desired outcome, and lifestyle.
Post-operative care is essential for a successful outcome. A support bra should be worn for up to 6 weeks after surgery to help reduce swelling and provide support while the tissues heal. Exercises may also be recommended to help strengthen the chest muscles and reduce discomfort. The duration of results will vary depending on factors such as age, skin elasticity, and lifestyle habits. Silicone gel may be used to reduce the appearance of scars caused by the incisions made during surgery.
Overall, a breast lift is an effective way to improve the appearance of sagging breasts and restore their youthful shape and size. However, it is important to discuss all possible risks with your surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
Are you ready to take the next step in achieving your aesthetic goals? Contact us today to book your free consultation and learn about the best options for you. Our board-certified cosmetic surgeons can provide a thorough exam and answer any questions you may have. We offer virtual consultations via text 402-395-0511, or you can schedule an in-person appointment with one of our specialists. Our Clinic Manager is also available to discuss financing and scheduling opportunities to help you make your decision. Don’t wait any longer – contact us today to get started!
