What is Breast Lifting?

Breast Lifting is a surgical procedure to "lift" or reposition the breast to a more youthful position. Normally the breast position is evaluated based on the nipple position in relation to the inframammary fold (the line or crease below the breast). If the nipple position is below the fold, the breast is noted to be ptotic (sagging) and has lost its youthful shape and position. There are many methods and types of surgical procedures to correct breast ptosis and these operative procedures are termed lifts or mastopexy. Depending on the degree of ptosis and volume loss the correct procedure will be determined. At times an implant will also be placed in conjunction with the lift to add more volume and make the breast appear more youthful. For more info please refer to my website at www.bhpsg.com or the website of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons http://plasticsurgery.org/ or call (310) 275-6600 to schedule an appointment and personally have a consultation with me.

How is breast lift surgery done?

Mastopexy may be performed in a hospital, an outpatient surgery center or a surgeon s office-based facility. It is usually done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, and lasts from 1 ½ to 3 ½ hours. There are several types of incision methods that can be used when performing a breast lift. The technique a surgeon chooses depends on the patient's:

• Breast size and shape
• Degree of sagging
• Size and position of the areolas/nipples
• Amount of excess skin
• Skin quality
• And other factors.

The three most common incision types are two rings around the areola in a doughnut shape (small-incision mastopexy, generally only recommended for patients with small breasts and minimal sagging); around the areola and down to the breast crease in a lollipop shape; and the lollipop with an additional half-moon incision along the breast crease, in an anchor shape. In all cases, breast lift surgery begins with administration of anesthesia or IV sedation. The surgeon makes the necessary incisions, and then he or she lifts and reshapes the breast tissue into its new, rejuvenated contour. He or she moves the nipple and areola higher on the breast and removes extra skin around the perimeter if the areola is enlarged. Finally, he or she trims the excess breast skin that resulted from poor elasticity. Stitches layered deep throughout the breast tissue support the lifted breasts. When the mastopexy is complete, the skin is closed with stitches, tissue adhesive and/or surgical tape. Some of the incisions are hidden in the breast crease. Others will be visible. All scars will mature with time.