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Mastopexy (Breast Lift): Frequently Asked Questions

What is mastopexy?

The mastopexy, or breast lift surgery , is really several different procedures, each with the intended purpose of lifting the breast up and repositioning the nipple where it was before sagging occurred.
The Mastopexy or breast lifting operation is really several different procedures. Each of the different operations has as its intended purpose to lift the breast up and position the nipple in the position that it was in before sagging occurred. Sagging occurs due to three circumstances either alone or in conjunction with each other. First, after pregnancy and breast feeding the breast has become stretched and the skin loosened. Frequently there is actual loss of some of the breast tissue and this allows for sag also. ...
This simply is the medical name for a breast lift. It does not add volume to the existing breast, only lifts the existing tissue into higher, perkier position.

What are the risks of Mastopexy?

It is possible to have a negative reaction to the anesthesia, excessive bleeding, infection, hematoma and seroma. Of course, it is a given that scars will be apparent after Mastopexy. Permanent or temporary loss of sensitivity in the nipple area and breast skin is possible. If you smoke your risks are increased not to mention that your scars will heal slower and possibly wider than a non-smoker's would. A big fear is tissue necrosis (tissue death). ...
It is possible to have a negative reaction to the anesthesia, excessive bleeding, infection, hematoma and seroma. Of course there is the given that scars will be apparent associated with Mastopexy. Permanent loss of sensitivity in the nipple area and breast skin is possible. If you smoke your risks are increased not to mention that your scars will heal slower and possibly wider than a non-smoker's would. A big fear is tissue necrosis (tissue death). I am serious, you do NOT want this. ...

What are the goals of mastopexy?

Mastopexy is a surgical procedure that attempts to reverse the normal progression of breast ptosis, thus restoring the breast to a more youthful form. Indeed, some breasts never enjoy a full, nonptotic appearance, even in youth. Important in the management of breast ptosis are not only the particular abnormalities of the patient’s breast but also her desires and expectations. ...

When is mastopexy usually performed?

Women often seek out a mastopexy (breast lift) after a pregnancy or after they’ve lost a lot of weight, both times when there can be a lot of breast tissue loss. Sometimes drooping comes with age or from not wearing a bra. A mastopexy will transform a sagging breast to its former youthful appearance. However, if you are planning to have children, you should postpone your breast lift surgery until after you are sure you have completed your family since another pregnancy could prompt another mastopexy. ...
Usually, after pregnancy or after pregnancy and breast-feeding, there is a lot of breast tissue loss. Sometimes, it is just age or even a drooping caused from not wearing a bra through most of one's life. Mastopexy is often sought out by women who have either been pregnant or have gained a lot of weight and have since lost the weight. A mastopexy will transform a sagging breast to its former youthful appearance. ...

What Is Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?

As time passes, pregnancy, nursing, excessive weight loss and gravity have adverse effects on women's breasts, causing them to lose their elasticity, firmness and shape. This creates a sagging appearance. A mastopexy, or breast lift, is the procedure that corrects this condition, using a combination of removing excess skin and, at times, inserting small implants to give the breasts a natural size and shape. ...
Mastopexy is a surgical procedure for correcting drooping or sagging breasts. Sometimes a mastopexy is combined with a breast implant to create a fuller breast than a lift alone would accomplish. In cases of minor ptosis (sagging), sometimes a Breast Augmentation alone can correct the problem.
Breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. Read more...

How is a mastopexy procedure performed?

Riley will create incisions in the natural contours of the breast, remove excess skin, and relocate the nipple and areola to an aesthetically pleasing position. Patients may choose to have augmentation along with mastopexy, in which case a breast implant will be inserted. Dr. Riley will place sutures in the incision sites to give the breast a full, natural contour. Breasts are now “lifted” for a more youthful appearance.

How is mastopexy performed?

This procedure is usually performed under general anesthetic. The techniques vary according to your anatomy. Our physician will discuss the exact nature of the procedure that’s best for you.

When is mastopexy performed?

Most typically, after childbirth. Subsequent pregnancies can cause breast tissue to stretch and re-droop.

Is Mastopexy a painful procedure?

Actually, Mastopexy is not a notoriously painful procedure. Of course you will feel nothing during the procedure itself, thanks to anesthesia. Post-operatively, patients report discomfort and soreness, but very few patients report difficulty with pain. Adhering to Dr. Placik’s post-operative instructions is also essential in controlling discomfort.

What is a periareolar mastopexy?

A periareolar or Benelli mastopexy uses a purse string suture around the areola to lift the breast and avoid a vertical or transverse scar under the breast. It is frequently employed in patients requesting breast augmentation requiring a small to moderate breast lift .

Where are the scars located involving Mastopexy?

The scar from the crescent Mastopexy is placed directly at the junction of the areola (pigmented skin) and non-pigmented skin. It heals leaving a scar that is barely visible in most people, more in Caucasian and less in Asian skin. The full Mastopexy involves more incisions. The anchor shaped scar is normally the chosen incision line. However different doctors have different techniques. The scars are generally very well tolerated by patients as the scars are far less unsightly than the sagging breast. ...
The Scar from the crescent Mastopexy is placed directly at the junction of the areola (pigmented skin) and non pigmented skin. It heals leaving a scar that is barely visible in most people. The full Mastopexy involves more incisions. The anchor shaped scar is normally the chosen incision line. However different doctors have different techniques. The scars are generally very well tolerated by patients as the scars are far less unsightly than the sagging breast. ...

Is there much pain associated with Mastopexy?

Normally, there is mild to moderate pain. Although, discomfort and soreness is what is most often described by patients. Your prescribed pain medications should alleviate the pain associated with Mastopexy. However, if you feel as if your pain is severe, do not hesitate to call your surgeon or the staff in call. You will experience more pronounced pain if you are to remove your support bandages and bra for longer than what is necessary to sponge off. ...
Pain after breast lift surgery is normally not severe. Most often patients describe a feeling of discomfort and soreness, which your prescribed pain medications should alleviate. However, do not hesitate to call your surgeon or the staff on call if you feel your pain is severe. You will experience more pronounced pain if you remove your support bandages and bra for longer than is necessary to sponge off. You may also interfere with the end result by going braless soon after your procedure. ...
Normally, there is not a severe sense of pain. Although, discomfort and soreness is what is most often described by patients. Your prescribed pain medications should alleviate the pain associated with Mastopexy. However, if you feel as if your pain is severe do not hesitate to call your surgeon or the staff in call. You will experience more pronounced pain if you are to remove your support bandages and bra for longer than what is necessary to sponge off. ...

What are the different techniques for Mastopexy?

The amount of sagging determines the best procedure to be performed. It is important to decide whether augmentation or reduction should accompany the mastopexy procedure. The procedure that one elects to undergo is determined by several factors. First and foremost is the amount of sagging or ptosis (pronounced: toe-sis) present. When a slight amount of ptosis is present then a Crescent Mastopexy can be performed. The nipple can be uplifted 2 to 3 centimeters. ...

How long does a Mastopexy last?

Any surgery can not be considered permanent as far as aging, gravity and your personal bra-wearing habits go. Gravity and age will prevail and you will sag - period. Although we can attempt to slow its process by maintenance and healthy eating. Whatever the situation, a woman's breast tissue, in 95% of cases, will sag eventually. Regardless of having had Mastopexy, a breast will sag again. It may be years from now, but you may need an additional Mastopexy depending on your habits of bra wearing. ...
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery classifies breast lift results as “long-lasting”, not permanent. Gravity will prevail and you will sag, period. You can attempt to slow the process by wearing supportive bras, staying out of the sun and eating healthily. It may be years from now, but you may need an additional mastopexy – so be safe, wear a bra!

What are the techniques of Breast lift (Mastopexy)?

All methods so far invented rely on actual skin removal.Perhaps the most important characteristic of an attractively-shaped breast is the balance between the volume of the breast, and the surface area of the skin holding that volume. If these two are in the correct proportion, then usually an attractive shape results. When there is a mismatch, that is there is too much skin for the breast volume, then the breast is too "relaxed" or "droopy" or "saggy" with a downward descent below the normal level. ...

Is Breast lift (Mastopexy) surgery painful?

Usually not extremely so, as there are no deeper tissues involved. All the patients are given strong narcotic pills to take at home, and limit their activities accordingly. | Back to the top | To Home page |

What are the advantages and disadvantages of implants after mastopexy?

The addition of an implant can enhance size and contour. Of interest, an implant also increases, the longevity of the uplifting effects of mastopexy and often reduces the length of incisions needed to perform an adequate mastopexy. However, the skin envelope of a ptotic breast may not able to handle adequately the weight and possible expansibility of an implant. Furthermore, the addition of an implant brings with in the associated complications and risks or breast prostheses. ...

Is there a lot of swelling involved with mastopexy?

Swelling is an issue but can be lessened if the patient sleeps with the upper torso elevated and stays upright for the first few weeks. This keeps the edema (fluids) from pooling around the traumatized area. Drinking lots of water can help as well, as can decreasing your sodium intake. You may want to speak with your surgeon beforehand regarding Arnica montana, bromelain, and vitamins A, C and K to help with the healing process.
Your surgeon should attempt to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. However, you must realize that Mastopexy scars are extensive and permanent. The scars will be red and raised for several months -- gradually fading in color and flattening out. Nipple sensation is generally preserved with this operation. The incidence of loss is usually less than 5%. In many individuals where there is significant ptosis, the sensation has diminished prior to the operation. ...

What are the different techniques for breast lift (mastopexy)?

The amount of sag (ptosis) determines the mastopexy procedure that is used. It’s also important to factor in whether augmentation or reduction should accompany the lift. When a slight amount of ptosis is present, a crescent mastopexy can be performed, often in conjunction with breast augmentation. Should a greater amount of lift be required, an incision will be needed that completely circles the areola, with a vertical line dropping down the center of the breast to the bottom of the breast. ...
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