What is Breast Lifting?

Sagging of the breast occurs naturally as the skin loses its elasticity, and can be accelerated by pregnancy and breast feeding. Sagging of the breast is known as ptosis and is graded on the position of the nipple relative to the lower breast crease (inframmary crease). Depending on the severity of breast ptosis, the incision required to lift the breast will vary. If only a few centimeters are needed, the incision can be confined to the areola (periaeolar). More lifting can be accomplished through an incision around the nipple with a vertical component (vertical mastopexy). If a more significant lift is needed, a "keyhole " incision with a vertical and horizontal extension is necessary. A breast lift may be combined with breast augmentation to restore both size and shape. A well-done breast lift will restore the nipple to its natural position, remove excess skin to shape the breast, and minimize scarring as much as possible.

What is the recovery period like?

Two to three days for the minimal incision techniques versus to 7 to 10 days for the more extensive incisions. It also depends on whether an implant is used at the same time (augmentation mastopexy)

Who is an ideal candidate for breast lift surgery?

Healthy women who have lost breast shape usually through pregnancy, age, or weight loss. Women who are at a normal body weight to height ratio (BMI). Women who have a normal mammogram and do NOT smoke. Women who are not planning additional pregnancies.

Are there risks and complications to a breast lift surgery?

Wound healing problems, loss of nipple or nipple sensation, asymmetry, scarring, unsatisfactory result

How long do the results last?

Gravity will continue its effect of the breast after surgery. The results vary depending on the age and skin elasticity of each patient. Weight changes can affect the result as well. The breast will generally swell after surgery and the skin will gradually stretch with the effect of gravity.

How is breast lift surgery done?

Generally, there are three methods used depending on how much "lifting " needs to be done:

Periareolar: incision around the nipple-areolar complex

Vertical: incision around the nipple and down the middle from the nipple to the breast crease (inframammary crease)

Keyhole: incision around the nipple, down the middle (vertical) and in the breast crease (transverse)