What is Breast Lifting?

Breast lifting or Mastopexy is a surgical procedure to restore a more youthful shape to the breast following weight loss or pregnancy. It can be performed in association with an augmentation to restore volume, or a reduction where the breast is overly large and drooping. The type of mastopexy or breast lift performed is a function of the amount of drooping or ptosis the breast is experiencing. Consequently, the incisions used around the breast and or nipple/areola complex may vary based on the amount of ptosis present. The operation may involve only a short incision along the superior border of the nipple/areola complex (crescent mastopexy). More commonly it may require an incision all the way around the nipple areola complex (circumareola mastopexy). For more dramatic lifts where there has been a lot of volume loss in the breast or drooping, it may require an incision around the nipple/areola complex and vertically down from there (vertical mastopexy). Many surgeons still find it necesssary to make an incision not only around the nipple/areola complex and vertically down but also in the fold (inverted "t " or anchor scar mastopexy). The type of mastopexy performed would be a function of the amount of ptosis present and the experience of the surgeon. Surgeons with more experience are finding that they are able to gain excellent results with shorter scars. Consequently, it is very important for the patient to make certain that her surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, has hospital privileges to perform the operation you may be considering and has a lot of pre-operative and post-operative photos documenting his experience. For examples of the operations described go to www.thebreastexpert.com. Alternatively you might call (714) 671-3033 or (310) 284=8384 for a complimentary or a consultation where after examination, the best operation for you can be defined.