Breast Lift 

Breast Lift

Breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. There are many different types of breast lift procedures and at the time of your consultation we will discuss these options. Prima Center plastic surgeons, Dr. Zwiren and Dr. Nakano specialize in all types of cosmetic breast surgery in Atlanta. A mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

If your breasts are small and have lost volume--for example, after pregnancy--breast implants inserted in conjunction with mastopexy can increase both their firmness and their size.

The ideal candidate for a breast lift has breasts of desired volume but the shape is a problem. If the breasts are sagging due to a loss of volume following a pregnancy or weight loss then many times it will be necessary or desired to increase the size of the breast while correcting the sagging. This is called a breast augmentation with a breast lift.

Surgical Options

Breast lift only – breasts of sufficient size but poor shape

Breast lift with Augmentation – breasts of insufficient volume and poor shape

Augmentation only – minimal to mild sagging only with insufficient volume

What if I am planning to get pregnant in the future?

Many women seek mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing have left them with stretched skin and less volume in their breasts. However, if you're planning to have more children, it is a good idea to postpone your breast lift. While there are no special risks that affect future pregnancies (for example, mastopexy usually doesn't interfere with breast-feeding), pregnancy is likely to stretch your breasts again and offset the results of the procedure.

When and How is a Breast Lift Performed?

Our Plastic Surgeons at Prima Center will examine your breasts and measure them while you're sitting or standing. He will discuss the variables that may affect the procedure — such as your age, the size and shape of your breasts, and the condition of your skin--and whether it will be necessary or advisable for an augmentation to be performed at the same time. The nipple and areola will be relocated to a higher more youthful position. The height of the nipple will be approximately at the same position as the crease under the breast. During your consultation we will describe the procedure in detail, explaining its risks and limitations. This will include an explanation of the anesthesia to be used, and where the surgery will be performed, office or outpatient surgery.

There are several different types of breast lifts. The type Dr. Zwiren/Dr. Nakano will recommend for you will  depend upon the amount and degree of breast sagging. This operation is tailored to your individual condition. The incision options depend upon the degree of sagging. Minimal sagging can be corrected with an incision that goes around the areola, moderate sagging requires the addition of a vertical scar, the so called lollipop lift and major sagging will necessitate a key hole or anchor type lift that includes an incision around the areola, down to the crease and in the crease beneath the breast. All of these incisions are designed to be hidden by a bathing suit top or bra and are placed in position that is thought to heal the best.

Positive Features

Your surgeon will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. Fortunately, the scars can usually be placed so that you can wear even low-cut tops. A breast lift can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence.

Recovery and Pain

After surgery, you'll wear a surgical bra over gauze dressings. Your breasts may be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable for a day or two, but the pain shouldn't be severe. Any discomfort you do feel can be relieved with medications prescribed by your surgeon. Our typical patient may take pain medication for a only few days. .

Return to work

Although you may be up and about in a day or two, don't plan on returning to work for a week or more, depending on how you feel.

Costs

The cost varies with the degree of sagging and the type of procedure done.

Breast lift FAQ ?

A Breast Lift is a surgery that reduces sagging of the breasts. An incision is made and the excess skin of the breast is removed. The nipple is repositioned upwards. This surgery is done under general anesthesia, and you will sleep through the surgery.

What are the benefits of a Breast Lift?

A Breast Lift will improve the shape of the breast and can correct asymmetrical breasts. You should have perkier, more shapely breasts.

Who are candidates for a Breast Lift?

Women whose breasts are sagging due to age, pregnancy or weight loss make excellent candidates.

How many sessions are required?

If there aren’t any complications, only one surgery should be necessary.

Is getting a Breast Lift safe?

A Breast Lift is a safe procedure, although it does have the risk of complications, such as infection, excessive scarring, loss of sensation, nerve damage, asymmetry, blood clots, wound separation, change of the shape or position of the nipple and inability to breast feed. Additional surgery may be necessary.

Are there any possible side effects?

Bruising, swelling and scarring are generally temporary. The risk of side effects can be reduced by following your doctor’s instructions and gently easing yourself back into your normal routine.

Will there be any downtime?

Yes, there will be some downtime. You will need to arrange for transportation to take you home and rest for several days.

What can be expected post-treatment?

You should expect some pain, bruising and fatigue. Incision scars will be red at first and will fade with time.

How soon will results appear?

Results appear as swelling diminishes.

How long does Breast Lift surgery take?

The procedure typically takes a couple of hours.

Who should avoid getting a Breast Lift?

Women with active infections are not candidates. Women who plan to have more children should consider postponing surgery, as pregnancy can change your breasts.

How does the treatment feel?

You will be asleep for the procedure. Afterwards, some swelling, tenderness and pain are normal and can be controlled with pain medication.

How long do the results last?

Results should be long-lasting, although future sagging can be affected by other factors such as age, pregnancy and weight gain. In order to achieve the desired results, it is recommended that you do not have a breast lift at the beginning of pregnancy or a weight loss regimen. Breast Lifts do not last as long in women with larger breasts.

Is additional treatment necessary?

Additional treatment should not be necessary but can be performed in the case of dissatisfaction or complications.

What are the limitations of a Breast Lift?

All surgeries leave scars and require recovery time. Breast Lifts do not reduce or increase the mass of the breast. If this is your goal, you should seek a Breast Reduction or Augmentation.

Instructions for before surgery:

The patient’s individual surgeon will provide specific instructions prior to surgery. There will be guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking and medications to take and avoid. Patients should make arrangements for someone to drive them home after the surgery.

Instructions for after surgery:

You will need to rest, although after surgery you should get out of bed for short periods of time. Sleep with your head and back elevated. If you show any signs of infection, such as fever or bleeding, see your doctor. Your breasts will be wrapped in bandages for a few days, during which time you may not shower. You will also have to wear a soft support bra twenty-four hours a day for up to a month. You should avoid lifting, bending or straining. After a week, swelling and bruising fades. Some patients are able to return to work at this point. After a week or two, any stitches will be removed, but you should avoid vigorous exercise for at least a month.