What women need to know about Breast Lift

Wednesday the 3rd of March, 2010 No Comments »

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Breast lift, technically known as mastopexy, refers to a surgical procedure specifically designed to lift the breasts back to their natural position on the chest. Breast lift surgery may include the repositioning of the nipple-areola complex. It may also involve the removal of skin or lifting of the breast tissue. Breast lift may be done as a single procedure, or in combination with other Cosmetic Surgery such as breast augmentation or breast implants.

Ptosis, the technical term for drooping or sagging of the breasts, is part of the aging process of the female body. It may also be the result of pregnancy and breast feeding or significant weight loss. Breast ptosis can significantly affect a woman’s body image, self esteem and self confidence. Breast lift is becoming increasingly popular among women who wish to improve their body contour and shape. In some cases, breast augmentation or the use of breast implants is used in conjunction with a breast lift to restore or increase breast volume and shape.

If you are considering breast lift surgery, there are some important things about the surgery that you should know. Breast lift, as with any surgery, requires preparation and planning. Women who want a breast lift need to provide the certified Cosmetic Surgeon with a thorough medical history and status. The surgeon will also conduct a physical examination and request pathology tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may affect the surgery.

There are several techniques for breast lift surgery, depending on the extent of the ptosis and degree of lift required. The technique most suitable for the patient will ultimately be decided by the Cosmetic Surgeon and discussed with the patient fully during the consultation process.

Breast lift surgery is performed in a sterile operating theatre under general anaesthetic. A full breast lift, otherwise known as the Wise pattern involves an incision along the crease under the breast, a circular cut around the areola, and a vertical cut between the areola and the crease area. This technique allows for significant changes in breast position, appearance and feel, but a potential disadvantage is the presence of visible scarring. A technique that is gaining in popularity is the vertical Mastopexy; two variations of this technique is the Le Jour or the Hall-Findlay both produces a “Lollipop” incision pattern. This does not include the Inframammary incisions like the Wise pattern full breast lift. There is also the Benelli lift or the crescent lift; both techniques produce a scar around the Nipple only.

Once completed, the incisions are sutured and the patient’s breasts are wrapped in surgical bandage and/or tape. After the removal of the bandage, the patient will be required to wear a soft support bra throughout the recovery period. Pain medication is often prescribed by the Cosmetic Surgeon to ease any discomfort that the patient may experience post-operatively. The patient returns for a follow up consultation with the Cosmetic Surgeon two weeks after surgery.

Women who have undergone breast lift surgery describe a high level of satisfaction with their new breast shape, proportion and contours and experience an increase in their self confidence and self esteem. For more information, you should contact a certified Cosmetic Surgeon.