Mastopexy
Breast Lift with or without Implant
Breast Augmentation Lift
During surgery, the surgeon removes excess skin and tightens the remaining skin. The surgeon starts by assessing the required lift and fullness needed to achieve the desired result. This is done by marking a new nipple position. Using a scalpel, the surgeon then makes an incision along the pre-marked lines and separates the skin from the tissue below. The excess breast fat is then removed, the nipple is relocated to its new position and finally the new breast shape is reconstructed.
There are 3 common patterns of breast lift techniques according to the pattern of surgical incision: circumareolar lift, vertical lift and anchor or inverted-T lift.
If you decide to have implants with your breast lift, they will be placed directly under the breast tissue or chest muscle.
4-6 hours
General anesthesia - discussed with your surgeon
Before surgery, please inform your surgeon of any allergies, all medical conditions, and any medication that you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription). To eliminate the chance of post-operative bleeding, you should avoid aspirin and any medication containing aspirin or ibuprofen for 2 weeks prior to surgery. You should also not smoke for 1-2 months before or after your surgery as smoking can affect your reaction to the anesthetic and slow down the healing process. Patients who suffer from hypertension must inform the surgeon prior to surgery.
In your consultation, you should discuss your expectations of the outcome of the surgery and listen to the surgeon’s opinion.
When you wake up after surgery, you will be wrapped in elastic bandages, gauze dressing and a surgical bra. A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain blood and fluids for the first day or two.
The extent of the post-operative swelling and bruising depends on whether you tend to bruise or swell easily. Every person is different. Application of cold compresses or ice packs will reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. A couple of days after surgery, the pressure bandages will be removed. The surgical bra must be worn at all times for several weeks until the swelling and bruising subsides, or until your surgeon advises you otherwise. You should only remove the surgical bra to bathe and to wash the garment.
For the first few months, it is important not to place tension on the wound by performing strenuous activities like lifting or stretching your arms above your head, as this may increase scarring by stretching the tissue.
Your surgeon will try to ensure that your incision is as subtle as possible, however it is important to remember that the scars are extensive and permanent. They may be red for months, and then slowly become fainter, eventually fading to thin white lines. In most cases, the scars are positioned so that they would not be seen if you wear low-cut tops and dresses.
Initial recovery usually takes about 2 weeks. Most people are back to work within 3 weeks.