As women age, breasts lose shape and firmness. The skin gradually loses its elasticity and no longer holds the breasts in a youthful, upright position. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight gain and loss also increase the tissue burden from loss of skin elasticity. Women with sagging breasts may benefit from a breast lift (mastopexy). If there are also problems with excess breast volume or size, a reduction can be done at the same time. Volume loss can be corrected by breast augmentation at the same time. Asymmetries can also be improved.
Excess skin is removed, the nipple areolar complex (dark skin around the nipple) is lifted, and the breasts are sewn together again to create a firmer, more youthful appearance. Depending on the size, appearance and preoperative asymmetries, the nipple areolar complexes can also be reduced. There are incisions made directly into the breasts that can extend around the nipple areolar complex, in front of the breast, and at the breast crease, depending on the degree of tilt, asymmetry, and volume considerations.
Healthy women without underlying breast disease who have sagging breasts and want to improve the shape of their breasts. The procedure is only indicated for women who will tolerate breast scarring.
Higher breasts (lifted)
Tighter breast envelope (increased skin tension)
Improved breast symmetry
Nicest breast shape
younger appearance
Mastopexy operations are usually performed in accredited outpatient surgical facilities under general anesthesia or conscious sedation with local anesthesia. There are several types of mastopexy procedures, depending on the severity of the breast sag. In most cases, incisions are made around the areolar complex of the nipple and in the middle of the breasts. Sometimes they can extend to the breast crease. The nipple areolar complex is lifted to a more youthful position.
Postoperative discomfort is usually managed with oral medications and long-acting local anesthesia. A soft bra or compression garment is usually worn for at least several days post-op. This is an outpatient procedure, and you will be able to go home about two hours after the surgery. You should have someone take you home and stay with you for the first day and night after the security procedure.
The patient will be seen the next day for 24 hours and follow-up. Most sutures are internal and do not need to be removed. Light activity can be resumed in seven to ten days. Sports activities can be resumed in three to six weeks (depending on your plastic surgeon).
Breast reduction or breast augmentation with mastopexy may be required for best results.
