Mastopexy – breast lift
As we age, breast tissue tends to descend toward the lower part of the chest wall. This phenomenon is known as breast ptosis.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight gain or loss, gravity, hormonal changes, natural aging process and genetics are the most important causes of breast sagging in women. In addition, the nipple may drop and appear lower than the breast.
Breast lift (mastopexy) is a procedure performed by plastic surgeons to remove sagging breasts and restore the breasts to a more youthful shape and position. In some cases, patients need both a breast lift and breast augmentation with implants to increase the size of the breasts in addition to improving the shape of the breasts.
If your breasts are sagging or your nipples are down, a breast lift may be the right choice for you.
A breast lift may also boost your image and self-confidence.
A breast lift does not change the size of your breasts. However, a breast lift can be performed with a breast augmentation or breast reduction.
History
Breast lifts were originally developed hundreds, if not thousands, of years ago and have evolved throughout the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.
Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery as it is more commonly known, is becoming increasingly popular for a variety of reasons, including post-cancer reconstruction, dramatic weight loss, and combating age-related changes, to name a few. . The purpose of breast lift surgery is to raise the breast tissue, properly orient the nipple and areola, and maximize the beauty of the breasts by improving their symmetry. This procedure has changed and evolved a lot over the years. Today, this method has improved to such an extent that implants are no longer a necessity and patients can enjoy long-term results.
Hippolyte Morestin, a famous French surgeon who is often hailed as one of the founders of plastic surgery, was the first to describe the mastopexy procedure that displaced the nipple-areola complex (NAC) in 1907.
Dr. Max Turk developed this method and is credited with the first free nipple graft. His method is still widely used today.
With the dawn of the 21st century, the focus of mastopexy development has shifted again, this time to minimize scarring and achieve long-term results.
2002 saw a major step forward in both of these goals when Dr. Graff and Biggs began using a modification of the traditional vertical technique. This modification places a flap of graft tissue deep into the pectoral muscle. This improves the shape of the breast and also maximizes the longevity of the results.
5 years later, in 2007, this vertical method was further improved by Dr. Hidalgo. He began using a Y-shaped cut, allaying any potential fears.
In the same year, Dr. Omar D. Khan described a new technique called “double vertical scar.” This procedure combines minimal scarring with a strong blood supply to the NAC.
Today, anyone considering mastopexy has the benefit of decades of development and experience. There are many good options for achieving this long-term goal: lifting the breast tissue, properly orienting the nipple and areola, and maximizing the beauty of the breasts by improving their symmetry.
Requirements for the ideal breast lift surgery
Who are the right candidates for a breast lift?
The ideal candidate for breast lift surgery is in good physical health and has a stable weight.
Common concerns of a surgical candidate are breasts that are sagging, show stretched breast skin, and nipples that are down and below the breast crease.
Most importantly, the patient should be informed with realistic expectations of what they can achieve with mastopexy and get the necessary information from the plastic surgeon.
Patients who wish to increase size in addition to improving shape may also benefit from breast augmentation at the same time as mastopexy.
What are the goals of a breast lift?
The goals of mastopexy are to improve the shape of the breast and restore the position of the nipple and areola (pigmented skin around the nipple), all achieved with an acceptable surgical scar. Patients who wish to increase size in addition to improving shape may also benefit from breast augmentation at the same time as mastopexy.
It is important to understand that scar formation varies from person to person and is highly dependent on a person’s genetic predisposition. Scars usually fade over time, but their final dimensions and color are difficult to predict. In the consultation session, Dr. Gholamhossein Ghorabi, a specialist in plastic and cosmetic surgery, will talk to you about this.
Why breast surgery (mastopexy)
It is usually recommended that patients be 18 years of age before undergoing breast augmentation surgery. The point is that the breasts may still be growing, and if the surgery is too early, this development may require more surgery later. It is also felt that mental development is incomplete at younger ages.
However, there are good reasons why early surgery may be reasonable. Breasts may be misshapen, unevenly sized, or too large, all of which cause psychological damage that can be avoided with surgery.
A common deformity is tubular or conical breasts. In these cases, the surgeon will probably ask for approval from the parents and the psychologist.
Although teenagers can undergo breast lift surgery, they must be mature enough to meet a list of other criteria to be considered a good candidate for surgery. One of them is to have reasonable and reasonable expectations from the results of the surgery.
How do you know if you need a breast lift?
If the position of your breasts causes you to suffer from low self-confidence or a lack of self-confidence, it may be better to consider a breast lift and book an appointment with Dr. Gholamhossein Ghorabi, plastic and cosmetic surgery specialist, to discuss your goals and Discuss the available options.
In the following cases, based on consultation and examination, the plastic surgeon may consider mastopexy surgery for you:
- Breasts that hang but are of satisfactory size.
- Breasts that lack firm tissue.
- Nipples and areolas that are down, especially if they are below the breast folds.
- Sometimes these conditions may be inherited traits. Breasts may have developed differently, so that one breast is firm and well placed while the other is not.
A breast lift can be done at any age, but plastic surgeons recommend waiting until the breasts stop growing.
Breast lift surgery does not usually affect your ability to breastfeed.
Breast lift surgery is somewhat similar to breast reduction, as in some cases in clients with severe breast ptosis, both usually involve creating anchor-shaped incisions.
With breast lift surgery, the plastic surgeon does not try to remove the underlying tissue, but only removes excess skin. If the breast volume is insufficient, the doctor can insert a breast implant to increase the size and shape of the breast.
An incision is made around the areola and the nipple position is adjusted higher.
The excess skin is trimmed away, leaving a pattern that creates the desired shape when closed. Breast implants may be placed under the breast tissue or muscle before the skin is sutured in place.
Special dressings are applied with bandages or bras to keep the breasts in place and supported.
A support bra should be worn for a few weeks while the breasts are healing.
Anatomy related to breast surgery
The most important aspect of breast surgery anatomy is understanding the blood flow and nerve supply to the areola and nipple complex.
Understanding and knowledge of this anatomy by the surgeon will prevent unwanted and dangerous joints.
Internal mammary artery, intercostal artery and lateral thoracic artery provide blood supply to the breast.
The internal mammary artery is responsible for about 60% of the blood supply to the breast, the middle or supermedial stem is based on the anterior perforating branches of this vessel, especially 2 and 3, which anastomose with the branches of the lateral thoracic artery.
The lateral thoracic artery provides about 30% of the blood supply to the breast, the branches anastomose inferentially with the branches of the internal and intercostal mammary arteries.
The third, fourth and fifth intercostal arteries are the least important arteries supplying the breast. The fourth and fifth intercostal arteries are responsible for the survival of the lower stem of the breast.
The sensory nerve supply to the areola complex of the nipple comes from the fourth lateral intercostal branch, which enters laterally through the fourth intercostal space and passes for several centimeters under the deep fascia.
It then travels up through the breast tissue to supply the nipple-areola. Some sensation is also provided by the 3rd and 5th lateral intercostal branches in the lateral thoracic region and the 3rd to 5th anterior branches of the intercostal nerves.
Anatomy related to breast surgery
The most important aspect of breast surgery anatomy is understanding the blood flow and nerve supply to the areola and nipple complex.
Understanding and knowledge of this anatomy by the surgeon will prevent unwanted and dangerous joints.
Internal mammary artery, intercostal artery and lateral thoracic artery provide blood supply to the breast.
The internal mammary artery is responsible for about 60% of the blood supply to the breast, the middle or supermedial stem is based on the anterior perforating branches of this vessel, especially 2 and 3, which anastomose with the branches of the lateral thoracic artery.
The lateral thoracic artery provides about 30% of the blood supply to the breast, the branches anastomose inferentially with the branches of the internal and intercostal mammary arteries.
The third, fourth and fifth intercostal arteries are the least important arteries supplying the breast. The fourth and fifth intercostal arteries are responsible for the survival of the lower stem of the breast.
The sensory nerve supply to the areola complex of the nipple comes from the fourth lateral intercostal branch, which enters laterally through the fourth intercostal space and passes for several centimeters under the deep fascia.
It then travels up through the breast tissue to supply the nipple-areola. Some sensation is also provided by the 3rd and 5th lateral intercostal branches in the lateral thoracic region and the 3rd to 5th anterior branches of the intercostal nerves.
Types of mastopexy (breast lift surgery)
As plastic surgeons, we care about the aesthetic result. We will do our best to optimize the size of the scar and hide it as little as possible on the breast. In many cases, it is possible to improve the appearance with very little scarring. Mastopexy scars vary depending on the procedure performed. The most common patterns are:
- Periareolar – circular pattern around the areola (pigmented skin around the nipple)
- Vertical – around the areola with a vertical part that extends to the breast crease. This scar is also called “lollipop”.
- Inverted-T – runs around the areola with a vertical line towards the crease, and extends horizontally across the crease.
It is important to understand that scar formation varies from person to person and is highly dependent on a person’s genetic predisposition. Scars usually fade over time, but their final dimensions and color are difficult to predict. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will talk to you about this.
Can I combine breast lift with breast augmentation?
If you want to have bigger and fuller breasts, Dr. Gholamhossein Ghorabi may recommend a breast lift at the same time as a prosthesis. This combined procedure is safe and can provide natural-looking, more proportionate breasts for some women. In medical terms, this surgical procedure is called Pexi.
Is a breast lift suitable for me?
If you are looking to correct sagging breasts, mastopexy surgery may help.
Typically, patients who benefit the most from a mastopexy or breast lift are those who have skin laxity and age-related loss of breast volume.
Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant or may become pregnant should not undergo mastopexy.
If you intend to lose significant weight after surgery, your results will also be less than optimal.
It is important that any candidate for breast lift surgery be in good health with no active disease or serious pre-existing medical conditions.
The best candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally stable women who are realistic about what surgery can do. The best results are usually obtained in women with small and sagging breasts. Breasts of any size can be lifted, but the results may not last long in heavy breasts.
Many women go for breast lift surgery because pregnancy and breastfeeding have caused the skin to stretch and less volume in their breasts. However, if you are planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift because pregnancy will likely stretch your breasts again and change the results of the procedure.
Method and steps of mastopexy operation
What are the steps of breast lift operation?
Your breast lift can be achieved through a variety of cutting patterns and techniques.
The right technique for you will be determined based on the following:
- Breast size and shape
- The size and position of your areolas
- The amount of breast sagging
- The quality and elasticity of the skin as well as the amount of excess skin
What is done in breast lift surgery?
There are several mastopexy techniques, and your surgeon will discuss which one will best achieve your goals based on your breast size, shape, and degree of ptosis.
On the day of mastopexy surgery, surgical marks are drawn on the breasts.
There are three main approaches based on different scar patterns.
In general, greater degrees of ptosis require more lift, which requires a longer incision, resulting in a longer scar.
A variable section of skin is removed, allowing the nipple and areola to change position. This procedure can also involve removing a small amount of breast tissue, repositioning the breast tissue so that the breasts appear longer and fuller.
Surgical drains are usually unnecessary after mastopexy. The incisions are closed with sutures and a dressing is applied to the surgical site. A bra is usually worn for a few weeks after surgery.
The most common breast lift cut patterns are:
- Periareolar incision – circular pattern around the areola (pigmented skin around the nipple)
- Vertical cut – around the areola with a vertical part that extends to the crease. This scar is also called “lollipop”.
- Inverted T-cut – around the areola with a vertical line towards the breast crease, and extending horizontally at the breast crease.
A breast lift usually takes 3.5 to 3 hours.
A breast lift is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. In selected patients, especially when a smaller incision is made, the surgeon may use local anesthesia with a sedative to induce drowsiness. You will be awake but calm.
Steps before mastopexy
At your first visit, the plastic surgeon will likely do the following:
Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past medical conditions. This includes whether you have a family history of breast cancer.
Share the results of any mammograms or breast biopsies. Talk about any medications you are taking or have recently taken, as well as any surgery you have had.
Performs a physical examination. To determine your treatment options, the surgeon will examine your breasts—including the position of the nipples and areolas.
The surgeon also considers the quality of your skin color. Breast skin that has a good consistency keeps the breasts in a better position after a breast lift. The surgeon may take pictures of your breasts for your medical record.
Discuss your expectations. Explain why you want a breast lift. Be clear about how to care for your breasts after surgery. Make sure you understand the risks and benefits, including scarring and changes in nipple or breast sensation.
Before a breast lift, you may need:
Schedule a mammogram. Your surgeon may recommend a baseline mammogram before surgery. You may also need another mammogram in a few months. This allows your medical team to see changes in your breast tissue and interpret future mammograms.
It is difficult to give a completely accurate idea of the cost of surgery until we have met and fully evaluated your needs and goals. At the end you will be given a detailed quote covering all treatments, appointments and readmissions or revisions if necessary. The price guide below should give you a reasonable idea of the price range for your chosen treatment.
Before surgery, the plastic surgeon may ask you to:
Do blood tests, mammography, and if needed, heart consultation.
Quit smoking and using tobacco products.
Stop taking certain medications, for example, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements.
Reinforcement lift
Augmentative lift (also called augmentative mastopexy or ag pexy) is a surgery that does two things at the same time. First, it lifts and shapes sagging breasts by removing excess, stretched skin (this part of the lift). Second, it strengthens the upper half of the breast with implants (this is the enlargement part).
Ideal for patients who have lost breast volume after pregnancy or breastfeeding, as well as sagging breasts due to skin stretching.
From the patient’s perspective, there are four things you should know about this very popular procedure.
1. It saves your time and money
This is one of the reasons for the popularity of this surgery. The alternative to augpexy is to lift the breast first and enlarge it a few months later. Two surgeries mean two sets of bills. It also means two periods of recovery and more time off from work or away from the normal routine. Combining these surgeries in a single procedure can save you money, pain and time.
Augmentation-lift is a delicate balancing act
2. It’s a balancing act
There is a framework for understanding breast surgery. This framework involved thinking about two things: skin and breast tissue.
An aug-pexy tries to address both aspects at the same time.
Unfortunately, this is less like walking and chewing gum and more like driving and talking on the phone. If you’re not careful, things can go wrong.
Skin reduction and implant addition at the same time is a conflict between skin and tissue. If we shrink the skin too much, the implant will be too stiff and the skin will not heal well.
If you place an implant that is too small, the breast will fall out of the implant and it will not look good at all. It is important that your plastic surgeon is experienced and has a detailed discussion with you about how to achieve this balance.
3. Not everyone can do this surgery
Aug-pexy is a wonderful option and many patients are excellent candidates. Unfortunately, few patients cannot undergo this combined surgery. During the lift part of the surgery, the nipple usually returns to its original, youthful position. The more the nipple moves (that is, the more the breast hangs), the more blood flow to the nipple is drawn. In addition, the implant compresses the nipple from the inside and reduces blood flow to it. As a result, in some patients, performing combined surgery risks depriving the nipple skin of its blood supply. Needless to say, this is not something you want to happen to you. So be sure to talk to your surgeon about his criteria for deciding which patients should not have combined surgery.
Remember that even if you can’t do combined surgery, you can still do these two operations (lift and augmentation) as two separate surgeries a few months apart.
An augmentation lift may require a second surgery for best results. Perfect symmetry only exists artificially.
4. You may need a second surgery
The whole purpose of aug-pexy is to avoid two separate surgeries. And for most patients, one surgery is enough. However, some patients who undergo OGPEX may end up having a second surgery. Usually this second surgery is a type of palpation. Most often, the reason for the second surgery is related to the implant. For example, the implant may be too big or too small. Or there may be a slight asymmetry of the breasts that needs to be corrected. Usually, the second surgery is a smaller procedure with a faster recovery. So although the vast majority of patients do not need a second surgery, keep in mind that there is a small chance that they will.
Result
Augmentation-lift is a great option for many patients. However, it is important to understand its limitations and risks. The decisions that are made to design this surgery are relatively complex. Remember to have a detailed discussion with your surgeon about your surgical plan and how these decisions are made.
Alternatives to breast lift surgery
Is there an alternative to a breast lift?
You may have heard about breast lift with Botox or lifting creams, the US Food and Drug Administration has not approved this use.
Dr. Gholamhossein Ghorabi does not perform these injections and does not think it is a good idea.
There really is no other way to tighten the underlying tissues and remove excess skin other than surgery.
Mastopexy therapy
Breast lift is known as a cosmetic surgery and most insurance companies do not cover the cost of cosmetic surgery. However, check your insurance and ask your healthcare provider about mastopexy costs so they can provide you with the necessary information.
Advantages and disadvantages of mastopexy
You will immediately see the results of the breast lift.
Your breasts will look firmer, fuller and younger.
Many people also report that their bras and clothes feel better.
Side effects of breast lift surgery are uncommon, as with other cosmetic procedures, but may include:
- Bleeding
- infection
- blood clotting
- Open wounds that take time to heal
- Excessive or visible scarring
- Change in breast or nipple sensation (temporary or permanent)
- The possibility of sagging breasts again
- Breasts that are not the same shape and size
- Dissatisfaction with the result of beauty
- Dangers of anesthesia (Especially with breast lift surgery, risks can occur, including recurrence of prolapse and the rare possibility of loss of sensation or loss of skin around the nipple.)
Post-mastopexy care period
What can I expect during recovery?
Rest is key during recovery.
Resuming your normal routine and pushing your body before it heals can lead to complications. Dr. Gholam Mohsin Ghorabi, a specialist in plastic and cosmetic surgery, will meet with you several times during your recovery to monitor your recovery process.
During the first two to three weeks of recovery, you will wear a surgical bra to help support the new shape and position of the breasts.
You may experience swelling, pain, and bruising, all of which should subside after a few weeks. Typically, patients can resume their normal activities two weeks after surgery. It is safe to resume vigorous exercise and other strenuous physical activity for at least 8 weeks.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for showering. Do not swim, use a hot tub, or do other activities that cause the incisions to become covered with water until your surgeon says it’s okay.
When you shower, wash your incisions gently. Then dry the slices. Do not use lotions, oils, or creams on the cuts until they are completely healed.
Do not raise your hands above chest level for 10 days. And do not lift, push or pull anything heavier than 5 kilos for at least 7 days.
Do not drive until you are off prescription pain medication and your surgeon says it is okay. When you get into the car, carefully place the seat belt so that it does not compress your breasts.
Note that breast swelling may last 3 to 5 weeks.
Call your surgeon or healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:
- Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
- a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher;
- Bleeding
- Signs of infection at the incision site, such as increased redness or swelling, warmth, worsening pain, or foul-smelling discharge
- Pain that is not relieved by medication
- More pain, swelling, or bruising in one breast than the other
- A breast that is very warm to the touch
Mastopexy therapy
Breast lift is known as a cosmetic surgery and most insurance companies do not cover the cost of cosmetic surgery. However, check your insurance and ask your healthcare provider about mastopexy costs so they can provide you with the necessary information.
Expectations after mastopexy surgery
Sometimes patients express concern about breastfeeding after breast lift. You should know that a breast lift does not interfere with your ability to breastfeed. However, if you become pregnant after a breast lift, your breasts may stretch again. This will affect your results.
A breast lift (also known as a mastopexy) reshapes your breasts to make them fuller at the top.
This gives them a firmer, more buoyant appearance. You can do this procedure on your breasts, both small and large.
However, the results may not last long in women with heavier breasts who may require minor revisions over the following years.
I am always amazed to see the difference in my patients before and after the procedure. The difference is not only in their improved appearance after surgery, but also in their attitude.
My patients used to think they could never have the fuller breasts they had when they were younger. They thought it was a lost cause before they came to see me.
However, when my patients had a breast lift, they no longer thought so.
They were able to see a huge improvement in the consistency of their breast shape. This improvement was so great that they often experienced a positive increase in their self-esteem. One of the reasons why being a plastic surgeon is so valuable to me.
Breasts come in different shapes and sizes. Your breasts are naturally shaped to complement your body, but sagging hides this original shape.
Like my other patients, you will experience more satisfying results this way.
If your breasts are too small or have lost volume, combining a breast lift with an implant (Pexy prosthesis) can be a good way to increase firmness and size.
I might suggest this option, but it’s entirely up to you what you want to do. You can do the lift alone or have a breast lift for the final breast reconstruction. Remember, it’s your body, and as your plastic surgeon, I’m here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
Possible risks and dangers of breast lift
A breast lift is a surgical procedure, so it comes with potential risks and complications, including:
- Bleeding
- infection
- blood clotting
- Open wounds that take time to heal
- Excessive or visible scarring
- Change in breast or nipple sensation (temporary or permanent)
- The possibility of sagging breasts again
Breasts that are not the same shape and size
Dissatisfaction with the result of beauty - Dangers of anesthesia
- Complications from anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, or difficulty waking up.
- Damage to nerves, blood vessels, muscles, or organs.
A hematoma (a pocket of blood under the skin) that may drain. - Possible inability to breastfeed in the future
Cuts that do not heal properly. - Loss of nipple or areola.
- Pain or swelling that lasts longer than expected.
Results you don’t like, which may require further surgery. - Ulcers, rippling, or discoloration of the skin.
- Irregularity and skin discoloration.
Results of mastopexy
Breast lift surgery makes your breasts firmer and longer. The position of the areolas and nipples will increase and the size of the areolas will be aesthetically pleasing.
How long will the breast lift results last?
The results of the breast list should last for several years. But your breasts will still experience the natural effects of aging over time. Pregnancy and weight changes may affect mastopexy results.
What is the long-term outlook for women who have breast lift surgery?
You will see results immediately after your surgery, but it may take several months for your breasts to reach their final result.
Breast lift results may not be permanent. It is possible that you will need another breast lift. Over time, some women have a breast lift as a “touch-up” procedure to improve the overall appearance of their breasts. But they may not need a complete method.
It may help maintain results longer by maintaining a healthy weight.
The cost of mastopexy surgery
Most of the breast lift is considered to be a cosmetic surgery. Health insurance companies usually don’t cover them unless it’s done as part of a mastectomy reconstruction.
Currently, in 1401, the average cost of this operation is about 55 million.
The list of costs for surgery is as follows:
Laboratory tests
The cost of anesthetics
Versions
Bra after surgery
The cost of the surgeon’s salary
Hospital expenses and bed occupancy
Consult with your health insurance company in advance to be clear about the costs you have to pay.
Ten golden tips about breast lift surgery
- pregnancy
According to an Annals of Plastic Surgery study of a group of patients undergoing breast augmentation or breast lift, 85% of women who have had at least one pregnancy experience adverse changes in their breast shape. A woman’s breast naturally begins to produce milk during pregnancy. This causes the breasts to enlarge, which helps with the weight gain that many women experience during pregnancy. Skin and tissues are stretched to accommodate these changes.
As soon as you give birth and after milk production stops, the breasts decrease in size. However, the stretched tissues may not be able to return to their original, pre-pregnancy state, causing the breasts to sag. Prolapse worsens with each subsequent pregnancy.
You may believe that breastfeeding causes sagging, but in fact, it is generally pregnancy that leads to sagging breasts. Breastfeeding is not considered a factor in ptosis.
- smoking
If you are a smoker and have been smoking for a while, your breasts and skin may be looser than non-smokers. Several studies show that smoking is the main cause of breast ptosis. Many toxins in cigarette smoke destroy skin connective tissues, namely elastin and collagen. This results in tissues that are no longer elastic and the breast becomes weak against the chest wall. - If I choose breast implants with a breast lift, how long will my implants last?
If you’ve chosen breast implants with a breast lift, the lifespan of the implants is usually around 10 years, so you’ll probably need to replace your implants at least twice in your lifetime (depending on your age). - Grading of breast ptosis
In 1976, plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Regnault of Montreal published a grading system for breast sagging. This grading system, known as the Renault Ptosis Scale, is still used by plastic surgeons today. This is a convenient way to determine the extent of the patient’s ptosis and the most appropriate treatment. The classification is based on the lateral view of the patient’s breasts and the position of the nipple and areola in relation to the inframammary fold.Grade 1: mild drooping, where the nipple is approximately at the same level as the inframammary fold and most of the breast tissue is below it.
Grade 2: moderate sagging, where the nipple is below the crease and most of the breast tissue is concentrated at the bottom of the breast.
Grade 3: Advanced or severe drooping, where the nipple is far below the crease and goes down toward the floor.
Pseudoptosis: This is not considered true ptosis because the nipple is still at the level of the fold, but most of the breast tissue is below it. If you have false sagging, you can be sure that your breasts are not actually sagging. This is just their natural form.
- My breasts are sagging, can I just get implants to fill them up?
Breast lift can be omitted and breast enlargement can be done only with implants to correct breast sagging. However, it all depends on how much your breasts sag. Mild to moderate breast ptosis can be corrected with an appropriate implant size and profile. The goal is to have something that bulges out enough from the body to show off the bust.
Unfortunately, grade 3 ptosis can only be treated with a breast lift. You can choose implants to replace the volume lost from the lift. - When can I resume my normal activities?
Depending on the type of job, you can often return to work within a week or so. You can resume most of your normal activities, including some light exercise, after a few weeks. Severe pain should be reported to the doctor. Any sexual activity should be avoided for at least a week or two. - Are my mastopexy results permanent?
Age, gravity, pregnancy, and weight fluctuations can all affect the shape and size of your breasts. Although the results are long-lasting, they can be affected by these factors. - Do I need a breast lift or breast enlargement?
If your sagging is mild to moderate, an implant may be enough to give you a more pleasing appearance. I will determine this during your initial consultation. Your nipple should be above the inframammary fold and should not hang too far from your chest. Severe sagging can only be corrected with a breast lift. It is common to do lift and augmentation together in one surgery. - Can I lift if I’m still losing weight?
According to a study conducted on a group of women who underwent bariatric surgery, a breast lift can lead to significant improvements in your appearance and well-being. If you are still working on losing weight, I suggest waiting until you reach your ideal weight before undergoing a mastopexy. This way you will have longer lasting results, as losing extra weight can further change the shape of your breasts. - I just had a baby, when can I have a breast lift?
You should wait until your breasts stop producing milk and your body stabilizes after giving birth. This may take about six months or more. - How long after a breast lift can I return to sports?
You can return to light activity almost immediately without any setbacks. Walking is good because it gets your circulation going and helps start your healing process. The key to practice should and should not be effective. You simply don’t want your breasts to move too much for about six weeks. This is how long you should delay returning to vigorous exercise.
Summary
A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or at the same time as breast augmentation surgery. It’s a very effective way to restore breast volume and shape, improve body contour, and help you feel like a better version of your natural self.
A mastopexy usually takes 3 to 3.5 hours and includes at least one overnight stay in the hospital, depending on your condition.
The technique we use depends on the size and shape of your breasts and the change you want to see. However, in general, treatment involves an anchor-shaped incision following the natural line of the breast, or an incision around the nipple that extends down to the incisor.
Once the excess skin is removed, the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position. The skin around the areola is then brought down and brought together to change the shape of the breast. Stitches are usually placed around the areola area, in a vertical downward line, and sometimes along the lower breast crease.
Some patients, particularly those with relatively small breasts and less sagging, may be suitable for modified procedures that require fewer incisions.
The best results are obtained with small, sagging breasts. If your breasts are large, a breast lift will still be effective, but the results may not be long-lasting.
Also, if the shape of your breasts has changed due to pregnancy and breastfeeding and you plan to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift. While there are no specific risks that will affect future pregnancies (for example, mastopexy does not usually interfere with breastfeeding), pregnancy will likely stretch your breasts again and negate the results of the procedure.
A breast lift is safe when performed by an experienced and trained plastic surgeon.
As with all surgeries, there is a chance of side effects or reactions to anesthesia. Also, a breast lift can sometimes lead to uneven nipple position or a permanent loss of sensation in the nipples or breasts. The team offering Manchester Mastopexy and Manchester Breast Lift are highly experienced professionals and you are in the best possible hands.
Bleeding and infection following mastopexy are uncommon, but can cause scarring.
Most people experience a temporary loss of nipples and breast skin. This numbness usually goes away after about six weeks as the swelling goes down, but in some patients it can last a year or more and sometimes it can be permanent.
I, Dr. Gholam Mohsin Ghorabi, a specialist in plastic and cosmetic surgery, will do my best to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible, but remember that mastopexy scars are extensive and permanent. They often remain lumpy and red for months, then gradually become less obvious and eventually pale. Fortunately, scars can be covered with a bra or swimsuit and can usually be positioned so that you can wear shorter tops.
At the initial consultation, I can discuss your surgical procedure in depth.
The consultation will include an examination of your breasts and a discussion of variables that may affect the procedure, such as your age, breast size and shape, and the condition of your skin.
For many women, a breast lift and breast augmentation go hand in hand, so I will review whether it is necessary to achieve the results you want.
I will describe the procedure in detail, explain its risks and limitations, and make sure you understand the scar that is created. We will go over all aspects of anesthesia and explain the types of facilities where the surgery is performed and the costs involved.
This consultation is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have, especially those about your expectations and concerns about the results.
Your breast lift is performed in a clinic or hospital as an inpatient and the operation is performed under general anesthesia. You should expect to stay overnight in the hospital.
Depending on your age and family history, I may ask you to have a mammogram (breast X-ray) before surgery. You will also receive specific instructions about eating, drinking, smoking, and medication before the day of surgery.
While you are preparing, it is better to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and help you for a few days so that you can get through the bad period of the operation more easily.
Adequate rest is essential for recovery.
After surgery, your breasts will be supported with tape and bandages. Expect to feel some bruising and swelling, although the pain should not be severe and can be relieved with the pills I prescribe.
After a few days you can take a bath. You must wear the bra 24 hours a day for three weeks. Sutures are usually absorbable and do not need to be removed. Recovery is a gradual process. Do not expect to return to work before a week.
You should also avoid lifting anything on your head for three to four weeks. You may be instructed to abstain from sex for a week or more and to avoid vigorous exercise for about six weeks. After that, you can slowly resume these activities. If you do become pregnant, this should not affect your ability to breastfeed, as your milk ducts and nipples remain intact.
Schedule a consultation
If you are interested in doing this type of procedure, contact the office of Dr. Gholamhossein Ghorabi, a specialist in plastic and cosmetic surgery, and telephone number 09191006499 to increase your information and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for surgery or not.
Questions and answers with Dr. Gholamhossein Ghorabi
- What is a breast lift?
Also known as a mastopexy, a breast lift is designed to reshape the breasts to make them fuller at the upper pole, which is the area above the areola and nipples. Doing this will give the breasts more forward and more attractive appearance.
- How does a plastic surgeon evaluate me for breast lift surgery?
The surgeon will examine your breasts, measure them, and possibly take pictures for your medical record. The size and shape of the breasts, the quality of the skin and the location of the nipples and areolas are carefully evaluated. Information about any medical conditions, drug allergy treatments you have received, previous surgeries including breast biopsies, and medications you are currently taking. Providing complete information is important to you.
- How is a breast lift performed?
Individual factors and personal preferences determine the specific procedure chosen for a breast lift.
- Where are the cuts?
The common method of breast lift involves three incisions. An incision is made around the areola. The other goes vertically from the lower edge of the areola to the crease under the breast. The third incision is horizontal under the breast and follows the natural curve of the breast folds. After the plastic surgeon removes the excess breast skin, the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position. The halo that may be stretched in hanging breasts can be reduced in size. The nipples and areolas remain attached to the underlying tissue, and this usually allows the sensation and ability to breastfeed to be maintained.
- I understand that any surgical procedure has risks, but how can I learn more so that I can make an informed decision?
Some of the possible side effects you may be told about include bleeding, infection, and reactions to the anesthesia. You can help reduce some of the risks by following your plastic surgeon’s advice and instructions, both before and after surgery.
- How should I prepare for surgery?
This surgery does not increase the risk of breast cancer. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking before surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory medications can increase bleeding, so you should avoid these medications for a while before surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with additional preoperative instructions.
- What will the surgery day be like?
Medicines are prescribed for your comfort during surgery. Often, a general anesthetic is prescribed, so you will be asleep during the procedure. Once the surgery is complete, you will be closely monitored. In this surgery, you usually do not need a drain. A gauze or other dressing may be placed on your breasts and covered with a surgical bra.
- How will I look and feel at first?
A few hours after surgery, you will be encouraged to get out of bed for a short time. After a few days, you should be able to move more easily. However, straining, bending and lifting heavy objects should be avoided, as these activities may increase swelling or even bleeding. You may be instructed to lie on your back to prevent pressure on your chest. The stitches are removable and do not need to be pulled, you may be instructed to wear a support bra for a few weeks.
- Is it possible to breastfeed after a breast lift?
As mentioned above, if you plan to have more children, it is better not to do this procedure. However, if you do and want to breastfeed, you will most likely be able to.
- Is a breast lift as good as a breast implant to restore volume?
There are benefits and risks in both. A lift without implants will not increase your cup size, but your bra will feel fuller and you will have a more natural breast shape. If you want it to be significantly larger or if upper pole fullness is a priority for you, you may need an implant.
- I am worried about pain after surgery, what can be done?
While the procedure causes only moderate discomfort, the nursing team will take care of you and administer intravenous sedation to reduce it during your hospital stay. We also prescribe pain relievers that you can take at home when you leave the hospital.
- How long should I leave work to recover?
It’s a good idea to take a week off from work, although you may need more rest. Everyone heals at a different rate, but you should plan your schedule before surgery so you can get enough rest afterward.